Inflation Calculator
U.S. Inflation Rate, 1894-2017 ($135)
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics consumer price index, the dollar experienced an average inflation rate of 2.73% per year. Prices in 2017 are 2657.1% higher than prices in 1894.
In other words, $135 in the year 1894 is equivalent in purchasing power to $3,722.12 in 2017, a difference of $3,587.12 over 123 years.
The inflation rate in 2017 was 1.99%.
| Cumulative price change | 2657.13% |
| Average inflation rate | 2.73% |
| Price difference ($135 base) | $3,587.12 |
| CPI in 2017 | 244.786 |
Inflation rates for specific categories
New cars · Educational books and supplies · Electricity · MoreNews headlines from 1894
Politics and news often influence economic performance. Here's what was happening at the time:
- Thomas Edison's kinetoscope is shown to the public for the first time.
- Initiated by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, the International Olympic Committee is founded in Paris.
- Shibasaburo Kitasato, a Japanese scientist, discovers the cause of the Bubonic Plague and publishes his discovery in ‘The Lancet’.
- The first ever drink driving fine, is delivered to a London taxi driver called George Smith.
- Doctor Roux of Paris announces the creation of a diphtheria vaccine.
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: “$135 in 1894 → 2017 | Inflation Calculator.” FinanceRef Inflation Calculator, Alioth Finance, 24 Apr. 2018, http://www.in2013dollars.com/1894-dollars-in-2017?amount=135.