CPI-U in 1975
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 53.8 in 1975 (1982–84 = 100), 9.1% above the 1974 average. From December 1974 to December 1975, prices rose 6.9%. Prices in August 2026 were 6.23 times their 1975 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1975
The highest monthly index in 1975 was 55.5 (December), the lowest 52.1 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +6.9% in December to +11.8% in January. 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 1975 | 52.1 | +0.4% | +11.8% |
| February 1975 | 52.5 | +0.8% | +11.2% |
| March 1975 | 52.7 | +0.4% | +10.3% |
| April 1975 | 52.9 | +0.4% | +10.2% |
| May 1975 | 53.2 | +0.6% | +9.5% |
| June 1975 | 53.6 | +0.8% | +9.4% |
| July 1975 | 54.2 | +1.1% | +9.7% |
| August 1975 | 54.3 | +0.2% | +8.6% |
| September 1975 | 54.6 | +0.6% | +7.9% |
| October 1975 | 54.9 | +0.5% | +7.4% |
| November 1975 | 55.3 | +0.7% | +7.4% |
| December 1975 | 55.5 | +0.4% | +6.9% |
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 53.8 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1975: common questions
What was the CPI in 1975?
The CPI-U annual average for 1975 was 53.8 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 52.1 to 55.5.
What was the inflation rate in 1975?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 9.1% in 1975; December to December the change was +6.9%.
How much is $100 from 1975 worth today?
About $622.64 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.