CPI-U in 2021
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 270.970 in 2021 (1982–84 = 100), 4.7% above the 2020 average. From December 2020 to December 2021, prices rose 7.0%. Prices in August 2026 were 1.24 times their 2021 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 2021
The highest monthly index in 2021 was 278.802 (December), the lowest 261.582 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +1.4% in January to +7.0% in December. Historical context — Post-COVID surge (2021–2023): Inflation peaked at 9.1% in June 2022, the highest since 1981.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 2021 | 261.582 | +0.4% | +1.4% |
| February 2021 | 263.014 | +0.5% | +1.7% |
| March 2021 | 264.877 | +0.7% | +2.6% |
| April 2021 | 267.054 | +0.8% | +4.2% |
| May 2021 | 269.195 | +0.8% | +5.0% |
| June 2021 | 271.696 | +0.9% | +5.4% |
| July 2021 | 273.003 | +0.5% | +5.4% |
| August 2021 | 273.567 | +0.2% | +5.3% |
| September 2021 | 274.310 | +0.3% | +5.4% |
| October 2021 | 276.589 | +0.8% | +6.2% |
| November 2021 | 277.948 | +0.5% | +6.8% |
| December 2021 | 278.802 | +0.3% | +7.0% |
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 270.970 as published by the BLS.
CPI 2021: common questions
What was the CPI in 2021?
The CPI-U annual average for 2021 was 270.970 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 261.582 to 278.802.
What was the inflation rate in 2021?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 4.7% in 2021; December to December the change was +7.0%.
How much is $100 from 2021 worth today?
About $123.62 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.