CPI-U in 1976
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 56.9 in 1976 (1982–84 = 100), 5.8% above the 1975 average. From December 1975 to December 1976, prices rose 4.9%. Prices in August 2026 were 5.89 times their 1976 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1976
The highest monthly index in 1976 was 58.2 (December), the lowest 55.6 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +4.9% in December to +6.7% 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 1976 | 55.6 | +0.2% | +6.7% |
| February 1976 | 55.8 | +0.4% | +6.3% |
| March 1976 | 55.9 | +0.2% | +6.1% |
| April 1976 | 56.1 | +0.4% | +6.0% |
| May 1976 | 56.5 | +0.7% | +6.2% |
| June 1976 | 56.8 | +0.5% | +6.0% |
| July 1976 | 57.1 | +0.5% | +5.4% |
| August 1976 | 57.4 | +0.5% | +5.7% |
| September 1976 | 57.6 | +0.3% | +5.5% |
| October 1976 | 57.9 | +0.5% | +5.5% |
| November 1976 | 58.0 | +0.2% | +4.9% |
| December 1976 | 58.2 | +0.3% | +4.9% |
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 56.9 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1976: common questions
What was the CPI in 1976?
The CPI-U annual average for 1976 was 56.9 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 55.6 to 58.2.
What was the inflation rate in 1976?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 5.8% in 1976; December to December the change was +4.9%.
How much is $100 from 1976 worth today?
About $588.72 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.