CPI-U in 1973
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 44.4 in 1973 (1982–84 = 100), 6.2% above the 1972 average. From December 1972 to December 1973, prices rose 8.7%. Prices in August 2026 were 7.54 times their 1973 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1973
The highest monthly index in 1973 was 46.2 (December), the lowest 42.6 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +3.6% in January to +8.7% in December. Historical context — The Great Inflation (1973–1982): Two oil shocks and loose monetary policy drove inflation into double digits until Paul Volcker's Fed broke it with record interest rates.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1973 | 42.6 | +0.2% | +3.6% |
| February 1973 | 42.9 | +0.7% | +3.9% |
| March 1973 | 43.3 | +0.9% | +4.6% |
| April 1973 | 43.6 | +0.7% | +5.1% |
| May 1973 | 43.9 | +0.7% | +5.5% |
| June 1973 | 44.2 | +0.7% | +6.0% |
| July 1973 | 44.3 | +0.2% | +5.7% |
| August 1973 | 45.1 | +1.8% | +7.4% |
| September 1973 | 45.2 | +0.2% | +7.4% |
| October 1973 | 45.6 | +0.9% | +7.8% |
| November 1973 | 45.9 | +0.7% | +8.3% |
| December 1973 | 46.2 | +0.7% | +8.7% |
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 44.4 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1973: common questions
What was the CPI in 1973?
The CPI-U annual average for 1973 was 44.4 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 42.6 to 46.2.
What was the inflation rate in 1973?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 6.2% in 1973; December to December the change was +8.7%.
How much is $100 from 1973 worth today?
About $754.46 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.