Inflation Calculator

How to use this calculator

Enter today’s cost, an annual inflation assumption, and a time horizon. The tool estimates the future cost and the buying-power loss.

When this calculator is useful

• Budgeting for future expenses
• Understanding CPI/PCE headlines
• Explaining why cash savings need context

Important limitations

Actual inflation varies by category and household. Medical, housing, food, and energy prices can move very differently from headline inflation.

For best results, run at least three cases: a conservative case, a middle case, and a stretch case. If a small change in inputs creates a big change in the answer, that is a sign the decision may be sensitive to rates, fees, timing, or market performance.