Inflation Calculator: 1980 to 2000
From 1980 to 2000, Volcker's rate hikes tamed double-digit inflation and ushered in two decades of declining CPI. Cumulative inflation was about 100%, but the trend was steadily downward — a golden era for bond investors.
About This Calculator
Between 1980 and 2000, the purchasing power of the U.S. dollar changed significantly. Using historical CPI data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, $100 in 1980 had the equivalent buying power of approximately $181 in 2000.
This reflects a cumulative inflation of roughly 81% over 20 years, or about 3.0% per year annualized.
Explore specific year-to-year comparisons using the Inflation Calculator with real CPI-U data from 1913 to today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPI and how does it measure inflation?
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The Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) is published monthly by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It measures the average change in prices paid by urban consumers for a basket of goods and services. When the CPI goes up, your dollar buys less — that's inflation.
How does inflation affect my savings and investments?
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If your savings earn less interest than the inflation rate, you're losing purchasing power every year. For example, a savings account earning 1% while inflation runs at 3% means you're losing about 2% in real terms annually. That's why investing in assets that historically beat inflation — like stocks and real estate — is important for long-term wealth.
What has the average inflation rate been in the US?
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The long-run average US inflation rate since 1913 is approximately 3.1% per year. However, inflation has varied widely — from near-zero in the 1930s (deflation during the Great Depression) to over 13% in 1980. The Federal Reserve currently targets 2% annual inflation.
How can I protect my money from inflation?
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Common inflation hedges include: (1) investing in stocks, which historically return 7-10% annually, (2) Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS), which adjust with CPI, (3) I-bonds from the US Treasury, (4) real estate, which tends to appreciate with inflation, and (5) commodities. Keeping large amounts in low-yield savings accounts is the worst option during high inflation.