CPI-U in 1998
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 163.0 in 1998 (1982–84 = 100), 1.6% above the 1997 average. From December 1997 to December 1998, prices rose 1.6%. Prices in August 2026 were 2.06 times their 1998 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1998
The highest monthly index in 1998 was 164.0 (November), the lowest 161.6 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +1.4% in March to +1.7% in May. 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 1998 | 161.6 | +0.2% | +1.6% |
| February 1998 | 161.9 | +0.2% | +1.4% |
| March 1998 | 162.2 | +0.2% | +1.4% |
| April 1998 | 162.5 | +0.2% | +1.4% |
| May 1998 | 162.8 | +0.2% | +1.7% |
| June 1998 | 163.0 | +0.1% | +1.7% |
| July 1998 | 163.2 | +0.1% | +1.7% |
| August 1998 | 163.4 | +0.1% | +1.6% |
| September 1998 | 163.6 | +0.1% | +1.5% |
| October 1998 | 164.0 | +0.2% | +1.5% |
| November 1998 | 164.0 | 0.0% | +1.5% |
| December 1998 | 163.9 | −0.1% | +1.6% |
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 163.0 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1998: common questions
What was the CPI in 1998?
The CPI-U annual average for 1998 was 163.0 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 161.6 to 164.0.
What was the inflation rate in 1998?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 1.6% in 1998; December to December the change was +1.6%.
How much is $100 from 1998 worth today?
About $205.51 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.