Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Purchasing Power of the Consumer Dollar in U.S. City Average
CUUR0000SA0R • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
31.00
Year-over-Year Change
-2.52%
Date Range
4/1/1942 - 7/1/2025
Summary
The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Purchasing Power of the Consumer Dollar in U.S. City Average measures the relative value of the U.S. dollar over time. It is a key economic indicator used to track inflation and consumer purchasing power.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
This index represents how much a dollar can buy compared to a base period. It is used to adjust other economic data for inflation and understand changes in consumer buying power over time. Economists and policymakers closely monitor this measure to assess the cost of living and guide monetary and fiscal policy.
Methodology
The data is collected through surveys of household spending and prices by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Historical Context
The consumer purchasing power index is crucial for interpreting trends in consumer spending, wages, and economic growth.
Key Facts
- The base year for this index is 1982-1984 = 100.
- In January 2023, the index stood at 68.462, indicating the dollar had 31.5% less purchasing power compared to the base period.
- The index reached its lowest point of 54.31 in December 1913.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This index measures the relative purchasing power of the U.S. dollar over time by tracking changes in the prices of consumer goods and services.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The consumer purchasing power index is a crucial metric for understanding changes in the cost of living, interpreting consumer spending data, and informing monetary and fiscal policy decisions.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through household spending surveys by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and calculated as an index relative to a base period.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and economists use this index to assess inflationary pressures, determine real wage growth, and make adjustments to programs like Social Security and tax brackets.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The index is published monthly by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics with a typical 2-week release lag. The data may be subject to revisions as more information becomes available.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Purchasing Power of the Consumer Dollar in U.S. City Average (CUUR0000SA0R), retrieved from FRED.