Inflation Calculator with U.S. CPI Data

Calculates the equivalent value of money between different years based on historical inflation data. Adjust the values and click calculate to see results.

Historical Inflation Calculator

Calculate the equivalent value of money between two different years.

Amount:

From Year:

To Year:

Forward Inflation Calculator

Calculate the future value of money based on an assumed inflation rate.

Amount:

Inflation Rate (%):

Number of Years:

Backward Inflation Calculator

Calculate the past purchasing power of money based on an inflation rate.

Amount:

Inflation Rate (%):

Number of Years Ago:

About Inflation

Inflation is a general increase in the prices of goods and services, and a fall in the purchasing power of money. Moderate inflation is normal in healthy economies, typically around 2-3% annually.

This calculator uses historical Consumer Price Index (CPI) data from the U.S. to convert the purchasing power of money between different years. The forward and backward calculators allow for theoretical scenarios based on assumed inflation rates.

Historical Inflation Rates

The table below shows the average annual inflation rates for the U.S. since 1913:

How to Protect Against Inflation

To protect your money from inflation, consider investing in assets that tend to outpace inflation such as stocks, real estate, or inflation-protected securities (TIPS). Keeping cash in interest-bearing accounts can also help offset inflation.