CPI-U in 1986
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 109.6 in 1986 (1982–84 = 100), 1.9% above the 1985 average. From December 1985 to December 1986, prices rose 1.1%. Prices in August 2026 were 3.06 times their 1986 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1986
The highest monthly index in 1986 was 110.5 (December), the lowest 108.6 (April). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +1.1% in December to +3.9% in January. 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 1986 | 109.6 | +0.3% | +3.9% |
| February 1986 | 109.3 | −0.3% | +3.1% |
| March 1986 | 108.8 | −0.5% | +2.3% |
| April 1986 | 108.6 | −0.2% | +1.6% |
| May 1986 | 108.9 | +0.3% | +1.5% |
| June 1986 | 109.5 | +0.6% | +1.8% |
| July 1986 | 109.5 | 0.0% | +1.6% |
| August 1986 | 109.7 | +0.2% | +1.6% |
| September 1986 | 110.2 | +0.5% | +1.8% |
| October 1986 | 110.3 | +0.1% | +1.5% |
| November 1986 | 110.4 | +0.1% | +1.3% |
| December 1986 | 110.5 | +0.1% | +1.1% |
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 109.6 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1986: common questions
What was the CPI in 1986?
The CPI-U annual average for 1986 was 109.6 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 108.6 to 110.5.
What was the inflation rate in 1986?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 1.9% in 1986; December to December the change was +1.1%.
How much is $100 from 1986 worth today?
About $305.64 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.