CPI-U in 1981
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 90.9 in 1981 (1982–84 = 100), 10.3% above the 1980 average. From December 1980 to December 1981, prices rose 8.9%. Prices in August 2026 were 3.69 times their 1981 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1981
The highest monthly index in 1981 was 94.0 (December), the lowest 87.0 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +8.9% in December to +11.8% 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 1981 | 87.0 | +0.8% | +11.8% |
| February 1981 | 87.9 | +1.0% | +11.4% |
| March 1981 | 88.5 | +0.7% | +10.5% |
| April 1981 | 89.1 | +0.7% | +10.0% |
| May 1981 | 89.8 | +0.8% | +9.8% |
| June 1981 | 90.6 | +0.9% | +9.6% |
| July 1981 | 91.6 | +1.1% | +10.8% |
| August 1981 | 92.3 | +0.8% | +10.8% |
| September 1981 | 93.2 | +1.0% | +11.0% |
| October 1981 | 93.4 | +0.2% | +10.1% |
| November 1981 | 93.7 | +0.3% | +9.6% |
| December 1981 | 94.0 | +0.3% | +8.9% |
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 90.9 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1981: common questions
What was the CPI in 1981?
The CPI-U annual average for 1981 was 90.9 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 87.0 to 94.0.
What was the inflation rate in 1981?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 10.3% in 1981; December to December the change was +8.9%.
How much is $100 from 1981 worth today?
About $368.51 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.