Inflation Calculator
See how much prices could rise over time, and how much buying power your cash loses at a given inflation rate.
Over time
How the inflation calculator works
Future cost = amount × (1 + inflation)years
Buying power works the other way: today's amount divided by the same factor. At 3% a year, prices roughly double in about 24 years.
Where official inflation numbers come from
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes the Consumer Price Index (CPI) every month. Energy prices, including gasoline, are one of its most volatile parts, which is why oil prices and inflation often move together.
Protecting savings from inflation
Cash that earns less than inflation loses value over time. Investors often look at stocks, Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS), I bonds and real assets such as gold. Each has its own risks. Try the compound interest calculator with your return minus inflation to see real growth.