CPI-U in 1971
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 40.5 in 1971 (1982–84 = 100), 4.4% above the 1970 average. From December 1970 to December 1971, prices rose 3.3%. Prices in August 2026 were 8.27 times their 1971 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1971
The highest monthly index in 1971 was 41.1 (December), the lowest 39.8 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +3.3% in December to +5.3% in January. Historical context — Rising inflation (1966–1972): Vietnam War and Great Society spending pushed inflation higher; President Nixon imposed wage and price controls in 1971.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1971 | 39.8 | 0.0% | +5.3% |
| February 1971 | 39.9 | +0.3% | +5.0% |
| March 1971 | 40.0 | +0.3% | +4.7% |
| April 1971 | 40.1 | +0.2% | +4.2% |
| May 1971 | 40.3 | +0.5% | +4.4% |
| June 1971 | 40.6 | +0.7% | +4.6% |
| July 1971 | 40.7 | +0.2% | +4.4% |
| August 1971 | 40.8 | +0.2% | +4.6% |
| September 1971 | 40.8 | 0.0% | +4.1% |
| October 1971 | 40.9 | +0.2% | +3.8% |
| November 1971 | 40.9 | 0.0% | +3.3% |
| December 1971 | 41.1 | +0.5% | +3.3% |
CPI-U, U.S. city average, all items, not seasonally adjusted, 1982–84 = 100 (BLS series CUUR0000SA0). Before 2007 the BLS published the index to one decimal place. Annual average 40.5 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1971: common questions
What was the CPI in 1971?
The CPI-U annual average for 1971 was 40.5 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 39.8 to 41.1.
What was the inflation rate in 1971?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 4.4% in 1971; December to December the change was +3.3%.
How much is $100 from 1971 worth today?
About $827.11 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.