Inflation Calculator

Use this free inflation calculator to estimate future cost and present buying power from an amount, annual inflation rate, and number of years.

All tools

Formula steps Estimate limits shown Examples included Private history

Amount ($)Inflation rate (%)Years

Estimated future cost$134.39

$100 at 3% for 10 years

Present buying power: $74.41
Increase: $34.39
Multiplier: 1.3439163793x

Formula steps

Convert 3% to an annual multiplier.
Raise the multiplier to 10 years.
Multiply the amount by the multiplier for future cost.
Divide the amount by the multiplier for present buying power.

How to use the inflation calculator

Enter the requested dollar amounts, rates, terms, tax settings, or contribution details.
Use rates as percentages, such as 6.5 for 6.5%, and check whether a field asks for a monthly or annual amount.
Press the calculate button to see the answer, supporting metrics, and formula steps.
Use the result as a planning estimate only, then copy it if the assumptions look right.

Common uses

Estimate what today costs might become after inflation.

Estimate the future buying power of a fixed dollar amount.

Stress-test long-term savings or retirement assumptions.

Compare annual inflation-rate scenarios.

Examples

Future cost $100 at 3% inflation for 10 years

About $134.39 future cost

Buying power $1,000 after 5 years at 4%

Lower present buying power

Planning scenario $2,500 monthly expenses at 2.5%

Future monthly estimate

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about formulas, rates, payment assumptions, estimate limits, examples, and private in-browser history.

What can I use the Inflation Calculator for?

Use it for quick planning, comparison, and what-if estimates before you check exact numbers with a lender, tax professional, payroll provider, or financial adviser.

How does the Inflation Calculator calculate the result?

The calculator raises one plus the annual inflation rate to the number of years, then multiplies or divides the amount by that multiplier.

Is this financial, tax, or legal advice?

This is a rate-based inflation estimate. It does not look up CPI history, and the actual price of one item may rise faster or slower than broad inflation.

Are my finance inputs private?

Yes. The calculator runs in your browser tab. Recent answers stay only on the page while you use it and are not sent to a server.