According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics consumer price index, the dollar experienced an average inflation rate of 2.30% per year. Prices in 2018 are 2212.5% higher than prices in 1880.
In other words, $50 in the year 1880 is equivalent in purchasing power to $1,156.24 in 2018, a difference of $1,106.24 over 138 years.
The current inflation rate in 2018 is 1.72%1. If this number holds, $50 today will be equivalent to $50.86 next year.
Cumulative price change | 2212.48% |
Average inflation rate | 2.30% |
Price difference ($50 base) | $1,106.24 |
CPI in 2018 | 248.991 |
Politics and news often influence economic performance. Here's what was happening at the time:
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: “$50 in 1880 → 2018 | Inflation Calculator.” FinanceRef Inflation Calculator, Alioth Finance, 17 Apr. 2018, http://www.in2013dollars.com/1880-dollars?amount=50.