Inflation Calculator
U.S. Inflation Rate, 1865-2018 ($150)
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics consumer price index, the dollar experienced an average inflation rate of 1.77% per year. Prices in 2018 are 1364.6% higher than prices in 1865.
In other words, $150 in the year 1865 is equivalent in purchasing power to $2,196.85 in 2018, a difference of $2,046.85 over 153 years.
The current inflation rate in 2018 is 1.72%1. If this number holds, $150 today will be equivalent to $152.58 next year.
| Cumulative price change | 1364.57% |
| Average inflation rate | 1.77% |
| Price difference ($150 base) | $2,046.85 |
| CPI in 2018 | 248.991 |
Inflation rates for specific categories
Indoor plants and flowers · Medical care · Legal services · MoreNews headlines from 1865
Politics and news often influence economic performance. Here's what was happening at the time:
- America abolishes slavery after Congress passes the 13th Amendment.
- John Wilkes Booth assassinates President Abraham Lincoln at Ford's Theater, in Washington.
- The New York Stock Exchange opens its first permanent headquarters at 10-12 Broad Street.
- Columbia, South Carolina burns during the American Civil War.
Inflation Data Source
Raw data for these calculations comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Consumer Price Index (CPI), established in 1913. Inflation data from 1665 to 1912 is sourced from a historical study conducted by political science professor Robert Sahr at Oregon State University.
You may use the following MLA citation for this page: “$150 in 1865 → 2018 | Inflation Calculator.” FinanceRef Inflation Calculator, Alioth Finance, 20 Apr. 2018, http://www.in2013dollars.com/1865-dollars?amount=150.