Inflation in the 1970s
The 1970s produced the worst inflation in modern U.S. history. Two oil crises, the end of Bretton Woods, and wage-price spirals drove CPI above 12%. The decade's cumulative inflation exceeded 100%, halving the dollar's purchasing power.
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Between 1970 and 1980, the purchasing power of the U.S. dollar changed significantly. Using historical CPI data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, $100 in 1970 had the equivalent buying power of approximately $134 in 1980.
This reflects a cumulative inflation of roughly 34% over 10 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.