Inflation Calculator
See how the purchasing power of money has changed over time using historical US CPI data.
Reference CPI Values
$1,000.00 in 2000 equals
$1,824.62
in 2024 dollars
Inflation-Proof Your Money
Get tips on investments that beat inflation over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is inflation calculated?
Inflation is measured using the Consumer Price Index (CPI). To find the inflation-adjusted value, divide the CPI of the end year by the CPI of the start year and multiply by the original amount.
What has the average annual inflation rate been in the US?
The average annual US inflation rate since 1913 has been approximately 3.1%. However, it has varied significantly — from near 0% to over 14% during the 1980 oil crisis.
Why does inflation matter for savings and investments?
Inflation erodes purchasing power over time. $100 today will buy less in 20 years. Investments need to outpace inflation to provide real growth. That's why targeting returns above the inflation rate is critical.