Inflation Calculator
U.S. Inflation Rate, 1880-2018 ($50)
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 |
Inflation rates for specific categories
Legal services · Medical care · Public transportation · MoreNews headlines from 1880
Politics and news often influence economic performance. Here's what was happening at the time:
- Construction begins on the Panama Canal.
- The United States constructs its first dedicated sewage system in Memphis, Tennessee.
- The Salvation Army is formed in London.
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: “$50 in 1880 → 2018 | Inflation Calculator.” FinanceRef Inflation Calculator, Alioth Finance, 17 Apr. 2018, http://www.in2013dollars.com/1880-dollars?amount=50.