What is the Consumer Price Index (CPI)?
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a representative basket of goods and services. The most commonly used version is the CPI-U, which covers all urban consumers and is published monthly by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). See also our Inflation Calculator.
What is inflation and why does it occur?
Inflation is the rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services rises over time, reducing purchasing power. It is caused by factors such as increased money supply, rising production costs, consumer demand exceeding supply, and policy decisions by central banks. A moderate level of inflation (around 2%) is considered normal in a healthy economy.
How is inflation calculated using CPI?
Inflation is calculated by comparing the CPI values of two time periods. The formula is: Inflation Rate (%) = ((CPI in Later Year − CPI in Earlier Year) / CPI in Earlier Year) × 100. To find an inflation-adjusted dollar value, multiply the original amount by the ratio of the later CPI to the earlier CPI.
What does 'inflation-adjusted value' mean?
An inflation-adjusted value tells you how much a past dollar amount would be worth today (or in another year) given changes in price levels. For example, $100 in 1990 has more purchasing power than $100 in 2024 because prices have risen significantly over that period. You might also find our find Final Balance with Forex Compounding Calculator useful.
What is a dollar worth today compared to the past?
The value of a dollar decreases over time due to inflation. For example, $100 in 1990 is equivalent to roughly $240+ in 2024, meaning you would need significantly more money today to buy the same goods. Use this CPI Calculator to find the exact equivalent for any year range.
What is the difference between the historical and flat-rate modes?
The historical CPI mode uses actual recorded CPI data from the BLS to give you precise inflation adjustments between real years (1913–2026). The flat-rate modes let you project forward or backward using a custom annual inflation rate, which is useful for financial planning when actual future CPI data is unavailable.
How can I beat inflation?
To protect against inflation, consider investing in assets that historically outpace inflation, such as stocks, real estate, Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS), and commodities. Keeping money in low-yield savings accounts can result in a real loss of purchasing power over time.
What years does this CPI Calculator cover?
This calculator uses U.S. CPI-U data starting from 1913, when modern CPI methodology began, through 2026. For historical estimates prior to 1913, some institutions like the Minneapolis Fed provide alternative measures dating back to 1800, though those use different methodologies.