Inflation calculator: see how much $100,000 loses in purchasing power over 10–20 years. Compare nominal return vs inflation. Free browser tool.
See how inflation erodes cash over time. Example: $100,000 at 3% annual inflation has roughly $74,400 in today's purchasing power after 10 years if it earns 0% — and about $55,400 after 20 years. Earning 5% nominally while inflation is 3% leaves a ~2% real gain.
Frequently asked questions
How much has $100,000 lost to inflation over 10 years?
At 3% inflation with no return, $100,000 buys what about $74,409 could buy today after 10 years — a ~26% loss of purchasing power. At 5% inflation the loss is steeper (~37% over 10 years). Enter your rate and horizon here.
What is the difference between nominal and real value?
Nominal is the number on your account ($10,000 stays $10,000). Real adjusts for inflation — what that money can actually buy. Retirement and long-term plans should use real returns.
Why does inflation compound like interest?
Prices rise on already-higher prices — 3% inflation twice does not mean 6% total over two years in simple terms; it compounds. That is why long periods of moderate inflation are so damaging to idle cash.
How do I calculate future purchasing power?
Future value in today's dollars ≈ amount ÷ (1 + inflation)^years. Example: $50,000 needed in 15 years at 3% inflation ≈ $32,000 in today's money.
Should retirement plans use nominal or real returns?
Real returns (after inflation) avoid overconfidence. If you assume 7% nominal and 3% inflation, plan on ~4% real growth for long-term stock/bond blends.