Calculators
See how inflation erodes purchasing power and compute present or future value.
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Inputs
- Nominal value in future
- $180,611.12
- Today's purchasing power then
- $55,367.58
- Present value of that amount
- $55,367.58
At 3% for 20 years, $100,000.00 today has the buying power of about $55,367.58in today's money.
These are simplified estimates for planning only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures may be approximate and change over time.
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How to inflation calculator
- Enter an amount. Add the sum and the year or number of years.
- Set the rate. Enter an assumed annual inflation rate.
- Read the result. See the value in today's or future money.
Inflation quietly shrinks what money can buy, which is why a salary or savings goal fixed in today's dollars understates the future. This calculator makes that erosion visible and, in reverse, tells you what a future sum is worth now.
It's the counterweight to compounding: growth builds value, inflation removes it. Pair it with the Compound interest calculator and the FIRE projector, which can already factor inflation into its projections.
Frequently asked questions
What is present value?
The value today of a sum you'll receive in the future, discounted for inflation or a required return — money later is worth less than money now.
What inflation rate should I use?
A long-run average is often 2–3%, but you can enter any rate to match a period or forecast; the result scales directly with the rate you choose.
Is this financial advice?
No. It's an arithmetic illustration; actual inflation varies year to year, so use it for rough comparisons rather than precise predictions.
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