Inflation Calculator
Inflation quietly shrinks what your money can buy. See the real impact over time.
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Historical US average is around 3%
The impact of inflation
In 20 years
$10,000 today will have the buying power of
$5,537
in 20 years
Something costing $10,000 today will cost
$18,061
Purchasing power lost
$4,463
Buying power vs. cost over time
How $10,000 changes over 20 years at 3% inflation
Why inflation matters
Inflation is the gradual rise in prices that erodes the value of cash over time. Money sitting in a low-interest account loses purchasing power every year inflation outpaces its returns. This is why long-term savings are often invested, historically, diversified investments have outpaced inflation, while cash alone tends to fall behind. These figures use a constant rate for illustration; real inflation varies year to year.
Purchasing Power
$5,537
Value Lost
$4,463