InterestMath

Inflation Calculator

Calculate the effect of inflation on purchasing power over time. See what your money will be worth in future dollars.

Inflation Details

Future Purchasing Power

$74.41

What $100 buys today will only be worth this much

Purchasing Power Lost

$25.59

25.6% of value eroded

Equivalent Amount Needed

$134.39

To match today's $100 in 10 years

Purchasing Power Decline Over Time
Historical US Inflation Rates (CPI)
YearInflation RateContext
20150.1%Below average
20161.3%Below average
20172.1%Near average
20182.4%Near average
20191.8%Near average
20201.2%Below average
20214.7%Above average
20228.0%High inflation
20234.1%Above average
20242.9%Near average

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics (CPI-U, annual average). Approximate values rounded to one decimal.

How It Works

This calculator uses the standard purchasing power formula to show how inflation erodes the value of money over time:

Future Purchasing Power = Present Value / (1 + i)^n

Equivalent Amount Needed = Present Value x (1 + i)^n

  • Present Value = The current dollar amount
  • i = Annual inflation rate (decimal)
  • n = Number of years

The "Future Purchasing Power" tells you what your current money will be worth in real terms. The "Equivalent Amount Needed" tells you how much you'll need in the future to buy what your current amount buys today.

Frequently Asked Questions

This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Consult a qualified financial advisor for personalized guidance.