Inflation Calculator

See how inflation affects the purchasing power of your money over time. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (1913–2024).

Last updated: January 2026

Inflation Calculator

Select years to calculate inflation adjustment.
Note: This calculator provides estimates for planning purposes only. Results are not financial advice. Consult a financial professional for decisions involving significant money. Full disclaimer

What is inflation?

Inflation is the gradual increase in the price of goods and services over time. When inflation rises, each dollar you own buys a smaller percentage of a good or service. The inflation rate is measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), published monthly by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Since 1913, the US dollar has lost approximately 96% of its purchasing power. A dollar in 1913 is worth only about 3 cents today. This is why investing — rather than holding cash — is essential for long-term financial health.

How to use this calculator

Enter an amount and select a start year and end year. The calculator uses historical CPI data from 1913 to 2024 to compute the inflation-adjusted value. It also shows the total inflation percentage and the purchasing power lost. The chart visualizes how the purchasing power of your amount changed over time.

Data source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (public domain). This is a historical calculation. Future inflation cannot be predicted.

Sources

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