CPI-U in 1978
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 65.2 in 1978 (1982–84 = 100), 7.6% above the 1977 average. From December 1977 to December 1978, prices rose 9.0%. Prices in August 2026 were 5.14 times their 1978 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1978
The highest monthly index in 1978 was 67.7 (December), the lowest 62.5 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +6.4% in February to +9.0% 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 1978 | 62.5 | +0.6% | +6.8% |
| February 1978 | 62.9 | +0.6% | +6.4% |
| March 1978 | 63.4 | +0.8% | +6.6% |
| April 1978 | 63.9 | +0.8% | +6.5% |
| May 1978 | 64.5 | +0.9% | +7.0% |
| June 1978 | 65.2 | +1.1% | +7.4% |
| July 1978 | 65.7 | +0.8% | +7.7% |
| August 1978 | 66.0 | +0.5% | +7.8% |
| September 1978 | 66.5 | +0.8% | +8.3% |
| October 1978 | 67.1 | +0.9% | +8.9% |
| November 1978 | 67.4 | +0.4% | +8.9% |
| December 1978 | 67.7 | +0.4% | +9.0% |
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 65.2 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1978: common questions
What was the CPI in 1978?
The CPI-U annual average for 1978 was 65.2 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 62.5 to 67.7.
What was the inflation rate in 1978?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 7.6% in 1978; December to December the change was +9.0%.
How much is $100 from 1978 worth today?
About $513.77 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.