CPI-U in 1985
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 107.6 in 1985 (1982–84 = 100), 3.6% above the 1984 average. From December 1984 to December 1985, prices rose 3.8%. Prices in August 2026 were 3.11 times their 1985 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1985
The highest monthly index in 1985 was 109.3 (December), the lowest 105.5 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +3.1% in September to +3.8% in December. 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 1985 | 105.5 | +0.2% | +3.5% |
| February 1985 | 106.0 | +0.5% | +3.5% |
| March 1985 | 106.4 | +0.4% | +3.7% |
| April 1985 | 106.9 | +0.5% | +3.7% |
| May 1985 | 107.3 | +0.4% | +3.8% |
| June 1985 | 107.6 | +0.3% | +3.8% |
| July 1985 | 107.8 | +0.2% | +3.6% |
| August 1985 | 108.0 | +0.2% | +3.3% |
| September 1985 | 108.3 | +0.3% | +3.1% |
| October 1985 | 108.7 | +0.4% | +3.2% |
| November 1985 | 109.0 | +0.3% | +3.5% |
| December 1985 | 109.3 | +0.3% | +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 107.6 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1985: common questions
What was the CPI in 1985?
The CPI-U annual average for 1985 was 107.6 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 105.5 to 109.3.
What was the inflation rate in 1985?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 3.6% in 1985; December to December the change was +3.8%.
How much is $100 from 1985 worth today?
About $311.32 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.