CPI-U in 1979
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 72.6 in 1979 (1982–84 = 100), 11.3% above the 1978 average. From December 1978 to December 1979, prices rose 13.3%. Prices in August 2026 were 4.61 times their 1979 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1979
The highest monthly index in 1979 was 76.7 (December), the lowest 68.3 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +9.3% in January to +13.3% 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 1979 | 68.3 | +0.9% | +9.3% |
| February 1979 | 69.1 | +1.2% | +9.9% |
| March 1979 | 69.8 | +1.0% | +10.1% |
| April 1979 | 70.6 | +1.1% | +10.5% |
| May 1979 | 71.5 | +1.3% | +10.9% |
| June 1979 | 72.3 | +1.1% | +10.9% |
| July 1979 | 73.1 | +1.1% | +11.3% |
| August 1979 | 73.8 | +1.0% | +11.8% |
| September 1979 | 74.6 | +1.1% | +12.2% |
| October 1979 | 75.2 | +0.8% | +12.1% |
| November 1979 | 75.9 | +0.9% | +12.6% |
| December 1979 | 76.7 | +1.1% | +13.3% |
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 72.6 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1979: common questions
What was the CPI in 1979?
The CPI-U annual average for 1979 was 72.6 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 68.3 to 76.7.
What was the inflation rate in 1979?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 11.3% in 1979; December to December the change was +13.3%.
How much is $100 from 1979 worth today?
About $461.40 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.