CPI-U in 1972
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 41.8 in 1972 (1982–84 = 100), 3.2% above the 1971 average. From December 1971 to December 1972, prices rose 3.4%. Prices in August 2026 were 8.01 times their 1972 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1972
The highest monthly index in 1972 was 42.5 (December), the lowest 41.1 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +2.7% in June to +3.7% in November. 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 1972 | 41.1 | 0.0% | +3.3% |
| February 1972 | 41.3 | +0.5% | +3.5% |
| March 1972 | 41.4 | +0.2% | +3.5% |
| April 1972 | 41.5 | +0.2% | +3.5% |
| May 1972 | 41.6 | +0.2% | +3.2% |
| June 1972 | 41.7 | +0.2% | +2.7% |
| July 1972 | 41.9 | +0.5% | +2.9% |
| August 1972 | 42.0 | +0.2% | +2.9% |
| September 1972 | 42.1 | +0.2% | +3.2% |
| October 1972 | 42.3 | +0.5% | +3.4% |
| November 1972 | 42.4 | +0.2% | +3.7% |
| December 1972 | 42.5 | +0.2% | +3.4% |
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 41.8 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1972: common questions
What was the CPI in 1972?
The CPI-U annual average for 1972 was 41.8 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 41.1 to 42.5.
What was the inflation rate in 1972?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 3.2% in 1972; December to December the change was +3.4%.
How much is $100 from 1972 worth today?
About $801.39 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.