Inflation Calculator

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See how inflation changes the cost of things and the buying power of your money over time.

How the calculation works

Prices grow each year by the inflation rate. The calculator shows what today’s amount will cost in the future and what it will actually buy in today’s money.

Formula used

Future cost = Amount × (1 + rate)^years; Purchasing power = Amount ÷ (1 + rate)^years

Example

At 3% inflation, something that costs $1,000 today costs $1,343.92 in 10 years, and $1,000 then only buys $744.09 worth of today’s goods.

Frequently asked questions

What rate should I use?

Use your country’s long-term average inflation rate. A common planning figure is 2 to 3%.

Can inflation be negative?

Yes, prices can fall (deflation). Enter a negative rate.

Results are estimates for general information only and are not professional financial, medical or legal advice.