CPI-U in 1983
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 99.6 in 1983 (1982–84 = 100), 3.2% above the 1982 average. From December 1982 to December 1983, prices rose 3.8%. Prices in August 2026 were 3.36 times their 1983 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1983
The highest monthly index in 1983 was 101.3 (December), the lowest 97.8 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +2.5% in July to +3.9% in April. Historical context — The Great Moderation (1983–2007): Inflation averaged about 3% a year with low volatility.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1983 | 97.8 | +0.2% | +3.7% |
| February 1983 | 97.9 | +0.1% | +3.5% |
| March 1983 | 97.9 | 0.0% | +3.6% |
| April 1983 | 98.6 | +0.7% | +3.9% |
| May 1983 | 99.2 | +0.6% | +3.5% |
| June 1983 | 99.5 | +0.3% | +2.6% |
| July 1983 | 99.9 | +0.4% | +2.5% |
| August 1983 | 100.2 | +0.3% | +2.6% |
| September 1983 | 100.7 | +0.5% | +2.9% |
| October 1983 | 101.0 | +0.3% | +2.9% |
| November 1983 | 101.2 | +0.2% | +3.3% |
| December 1983 | 101.3 | +0.1% | +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 99.6 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1983: common questions
What was the CPI in 1983?
The CPI-U annual average for 1983 was 99.6 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 97.8 to 101.3.
What was the inflation rate in 1983?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 3.2% in 1983; December to December the change was +3.8%.
How much is $100 from 1983 worth today?
About $336.33 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.