Free tool · updated 2026

Inflation Calculator

See how inflation erodes purchasing power — and what an amount today will be worth (or cost) in the future.

Cost in 10 years
$13,439
Today's $10,000 will feel like
$7,441
Purchasing power lost
$2,559

Formula: future value = amount × (1 + rate)years. Purchasing power = amount ÷ (1 + rate)years.

Plan beyond a single number

Inflation is only one lever. FuturePath's simulator layers inflation onto your salary trajectory, city cost of living, taxes, and savings — so you can see the real impact on your net worth over 5, 10, and 30 years.

Run a full scenario Salary vs inflation guideCost of living calculator

Frequently asked questions

How does an inflation calculator work?

It compounds an annual inflation rate over time. A $10,000 expense today at 3% inflation costs about $13,439 in 10 years, and $10,000 received 10 years from now is worth about $7,441 in today's dollars.

What inflation rate should I use?

For long-range planning, 2–3% mirrors the US long-run CPI average. Stress-test with 4–5% to see how your plan holds up in a high-inflation decade.

Does inflation affect every category the same way?

No. Housing, healthcare, and education typically outpace the headline CPI, while electronics often deflate. FuturePath's simulator applies category-level rates for a more accurate picture.