CPI-U in 1977
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 60.6 in 1977 (1982–84 = 100), 6.5% above the 1976 average. From December 1976 to December 1977, prices rose 6.7%. Prices in August 2026 were 5.53 times their 1977 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1977
The highest monthly index in 1977 was 62.1 (December), the lowest 58.5 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +5.2% in January to +7.0% in April. 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 1977 | 58.5 | +0.5% | +5.2% |
| February 1977 | 59.1 | +1.0% | +5.9% |
| March 1977 | 59.5 | +0.7% | +6.4% |
| April 1977 | 60.0 | +0.8% | +7.0% |
| May 1977 | 60.3 | +0.5% | +6.7% |
| June 1977 | 60.7 | +0.7% | +6.9% |
| July 1977 | 61.0 | +0.5% | +6.8% |
| August 1977 | 61.2 | +0.3% | +6.6% |
| September 1977 | 61.4 | +0.3% | +6.6% |
| October 1977 | 61.6 | +0.3% | +6.4% |
| November 1977 | 61.9 | +0.5% | +6.7% |
| December 1977 | 62.1 | +0.3% | +6.7% |
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 60.6 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1977: common questions
What was the CPI in 1977?
The CPI-U annual average for 1977 was 60.6 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 58.5 to 62.1.
What was the inflation rate in 1977?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 6.5% in 1977; December to December the change was +6.7%.
How much is $100 from 1977 worth today?
About $552.77 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.