Inflation Calculator
See how inflation erodes purchasing power over time. Uses historical CPI data for reference.
Details
Result
Future Equivalent
$90,306
Purchasing Power Loss
$40,306
Multiplier
1.81×
Why inflation matters
US CPI has averaged ~3% annually over the long term, with recent spikes (2021-23) hitting 8-9%. At 3%/year, $100 today buys only about $55 worth of goods in 20 years. Every long-term financial plan must account for this erosion.
Plan for 3% in projections
Using 3% keeps you conservative against the long-term average. If actual inflation runs lower, you end up with a buffer — better than the reverse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know, in one place.
What is the average US inflation rate?
Long-term US CPI inflation has averaged ~3% per year. 2022-23 saw spikes to 8-9%; 2026 is back closer to 2-3%. Plan for 3% in long-term projections to stay conservative.
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