CPI-U in 1982
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 96.5 in 1982 (1982–84 = 100), 6.2% above the 1981 average. From December 1981 to December 1982, prices rose 3.8%. Prices in August 2026 were 3.47 times their 1982 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1982
The highest monthly index in 1982 was 98.2 (October), the lowest 94.3 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +3.8% in December to +8.4% 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 1982 | 94.3 | +0.3% | +8.4% |
| February 1982 | 94.6 | +0.3% | +7.6% |
| March 1982 | 94.5 | −0.1% | +6.8% |
| April 1982 | 94.9 | +0.4% | +6.5% |
| May 1982 | 95.8 | +0.9% | +6.7% |
| June 1982 | 97.0 | +1.3% | +7.1% |
| July 1982 | 97.5 | +0.5% | +6.4% |
| August 1982 | 97.7 | +0.2% | +5.9% |
| September 1982 | 97.9 | +0.2% | +5.0% |
| October 1982 | 98.2 | +0.3% | +5.1% |
| November 1982 | 98.0 | −0.2% | +4.6% |
| December 1982 | 97.6 | −0.4% | +3.8% |
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 96.5 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1982: common questions
What was the CPI in 1982?
The CPI-U annual average for 1982 was 96.5 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 94.3 to 98.2.
What was the inflation rate in 1982?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 6.2% in 1982; December to December the change was +3.8%.
How much is $100 from 1982 worth today?
About $347.13 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.