CPI-U in 1974
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 49.3 in 1974 (1982–84 = 100), 11.0% above the 1973 average. From December 1973 to December 1974, prices rose 12.3%. Prices in August 2026 were 6.79 times their 1974 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1974
The highest monthly index in 1974 was 51.9 (December), the lowest 46.6 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +9.4% in January to +12.3% 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 1974 | 46.6 | +0.9% | +9.4% |
| February 1974 | 47.2 | +1.3% | +10.0% |
| March 1974 | 47.8 | +1.3% | +10.4% |
| April 1974 | 48.0 | +0.4% | +10.1% |
| May 1974 | 48.6 | +1.2% | +10.7% |
| June 1974 | 49.0 | +0.8% | +10.9% |
| July 1974 | 49.4 | +0.8% | +11.5% |
| August 1974 | 50.0 | +1.2% | +10.9% |
| September 1974 | 50.6 | +1.2% | +11.9% |
| October 1974 | 51.1 | +1.0% | +12.1% |
| November 1974 | 51.5 | +0.8% | +12.2% |
| December 1974 | 51.9 | +0.8% | +12.3% |
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 49.3 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1974: common questions
What was the CPI in 1974?
The CPI-U annual average for 1974 was 49.3 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 46.6 to 51.9.
What was the inflation rate in 1974?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 11.0% in 1974; December to December the change was +12.3%.
How much is $100 from 1974 worth today?
About $679.47 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.