A Dose of Perspective

Oil is 120% more affordable than it was in 1980.

In 1980, the average American's inflation adjusted annual disposable income could buy 180 barrels of oil.

In 2005, the average American's inflation adjusted annual disposable income can buy 400 barrels of oil.

In 1980, disposable income per person was $16,940.In 2004, disposable income per person was
$27,230.(Constant 2000 dollars)

In 1980, a barrel of oil cost $94.
In 2005, a barrel of oil costs $68. (Constant 2004 dollars)