CPI-U in 1980
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 82.4 in 1980 (1982–84 = 100), 13.5% above the 1979 average. From December 1979 to December 1980, prices rose 12.5%. Prices in August 2026 were 4.07 times their 1980 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1980
The highest monthly index in 1980 was 86.3 (December), the lowest 77.8 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +12.5% in December to +14.8% in March. 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 1980 | 77.8 | +1.4% | +13.9% |
| February 1980 | 78.9 | +1.4% | +14.2% |
| March 1980 | 80.1 | +1.5% | +14.8% |
| April 1980 | 81.0 | +1.1% | +14.7% |
| May 1980 | 81.8 | +1.0% | +14.4% |
| June 1980 | 82.7 | +1.1% | +14.4% |
| July 1980 | 82.7 | 0.0% | +13.1% |
| August 1980 | 83.3 | +0.7% | +12.9% |
| September 1980 | 84.0 | +0.8% | +12.6% |
| October 1980 | 84.8 | +1.0% | +12.8% |
| November 1980 | 85.5 | +0.8% | +12.6% |
| December 1980 | 86.3 | +0.9% | +12.5% |
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 82.4 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1980: common questions
What was the CPI in 1980?
The CPI-U annual average for 1980 was 82.4 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 77.8 to 86.3.
What was the inflation rate in 1980?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 13.5% in 1980; December to December the change was +12.5%.
How much is $100 from 1980 worth today?
About $406.53 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.