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Inflation calculation results
The future price of what costs this amount today.
What today’s amount could buy after prices have risen.
Projected cost chart
The year-by-year table below is an accessible alternative to this chart.
View breakdown
| Year | Future equivalent cost | Purchasing power then |
|---|---|---|
| Enter valid values to view the breakdown. | ||
Compare common inflation assumptions (optional)
| Annual rate | Future equivalent cost |
|---|---|
| Enter valid values to compare scenarios. | |
How to estimate the effect of inflation
Enter a current amount, an annual inflation assumption, and the period you want to explore.
Enter the amount in today's money
Use the price, savings target, or other amount whose future equivalent you want to estimate.
Set an annual inflation assumption
Enter the constant average yearly rate you want to model. The calculator compounds this rate for every year in your chosen period; it is not a forecast of actual future inflation.
Choose the time period
Enter the number of years until the future date or goal you are considering.
Compare cost and purchasing power
Future equivalent cost is the future price of what costs this amount today. Purchasing power then is what today's amount could buy after prices rise.
Explore the projection and share your scenario
Use the projected-cost chart and year-by-year breakdown to see the estimate over time. Optionally compare 2%, 3%, and 5% assumptions, or copy the link to preserve your current values.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an inflation calculator show?
It estimates how a constant annual inflation rate changes a current amount's future equivalent cost and purchasing power.
How is future cost calculated?
The current amount is multiplied by one plus the annual inflation rate, compounded once for every year entered.
What is purchasing power?
Purchasing power describes how much goods or services an amount of money can buy. It generally falls when prices rise.
Why does the calculator compound inflation?
A percentage price rise in one year becomes part of the starting value for the following year, so the effect compounds.
Can inflation be negative?
This calculator models zero or positive annual inflation. Falling prices, known as deflation, need a separate assumption and can affect categories differently.
Does this predict actual future prices?
No. It uses your chosen constant rate for an illustrative estimate; real inflation can vary by year and by type of spending.
Should I use this for investment advice?
No. The results are general estimates for planning and do not account for investment returns, tax, fees, or personal circumstances.