US Inflation Calculator
See how the purchasing power of the US Dollar has changed over time.
Equivalent Value in 2026
$398.06
Cumulative Inflation
+298.1%
Calculations are based on the historical Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) data published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The 2026 figure is an estimate based on recent inflation trends.
📈 Is Your Freelance Rate Keeping Up with Inflation?
Inflation since 1980: +298.1%.
If you charged $100/hr in 1980, you need to charge at least $398.06/hr in 2026 just to maintain the same purchasing power.
Most freelancers haven't raised their rates to match inflation — are you charging enough?
Frequently Asked Questions
How is inflation calculated?
This calculator uses the historical Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The formula divides the target year's CPI by the base year's CPI, then multiplies that result by the original dollar amount.
Why should freelancers care about inflation?
If you charge the same hourly rate this year as you did three years ago, you have effectively taken a pay cut. Freelancers must raise their rates regularly just to maintain the same standard of living, let alone grow their profit margins.
What is the "CPI"?
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a market basket of consumer goods and services (like food, housing, and transportation).
Are the recent years accurate?
Yes, the data for past years is exactly what the U.S. Government reported. The current or future year is typically an estimate based on recent monthly inflation trends.