Investment Calculator
Project future value of an investment with monthly or annual contributions and an assumed annual return rate.
Investment Calculator tool
Tip: long-term stock market averages are often quoted around 6–8% nominal, but it varies by period and market.
“Beginning” slightly increases the projection because money is invested for one extra period.
| Year | End value | Total contributions | Estimated gain |
|---|
Informational only. Projections assume a constant rate and do not include taxes, fees, or inflation.
This calculator uses a monthly compounding model for monthly contributions, and an annual compounding model for yearly contributions. The annual return is converted into a per-period rate and applied repeatedly across periods.
Results depend heavily on the return assumption. Small changes in the rate or duration can make large differences due to compounding. Use the year-by-year table to sanity-check the growth path, not just the final number.
If you want “growth only” (no new money), set contribution amount to 0. If you want to adjust purchasing power, take the projected value and compare it with the Inflation Calculator.
Examples
- $5,000 start + $300/month at 7% for 20 years → view final value and gain estimate
- $10,000 start + $0/month at 6% for 10 years → growth-only scenario
- Switch timing to “Beginning of period” to model contributions invested earlier
FAQ
- What does this investment calculator estimate?
It projects an investment balance over time using an assumed annual return rate and optional recurring contributions. It shows future value, total contributions, and estimated gains.
- Are results guaranteed?
No. This is a mathematical projection with a constant rate assumption. Real markets fluctuate and returns can vary significantly.
- Is compounding monthly or yearly?
This calculator compounds monthly by default because contributions are typically monthly. You can also switch to annual contributions.
- What is the difference between contributions and gains?
Contributions are the cash you put in (initial + recurring). Gains are the projected growth above your contributions.
- Does it include taxes, fees, or inflation?
No. This tool estimates gross growth only. For inflation adjustments, use the Inflation Calculator.