Real GDP per Capita

In this graph, we see the Real GDP per Capita from the late 1940s to 2017. What this really shows is how the standard or cost of living has changed in the country over the years. Since the currency is measured in 2009 dollars (2009 being the base year), it compares the money earned per person with the years prior to and after 2009. It shows here that during recessions (the grey areas) less money is earned per person, in response to the toll the economy takes during such a hardship. It also shows that it has become increasingly more expensive to live in the country as the years progress.