Investment Calculator
Calculate future value of investments with regular contributions and compound growth.
How Investment Returns Work
The stock market has historically returned about 7–10% annually (adjusted for inflation, ~7%). This calculator uses compound interest to show how your money grows over time.
The Power of Starting Early
Investing $200/month for 30 years at 7% grows to $243,994. Waiting 10 years and investing for just 20 years yields only $104,430 — less than half, despite investing for a shorter time.
Common Investments by Return Rate
- High-yield savings (4–5%): FDIC-insured, no risk
- Bonds (3–6%): Low risk, fixed income
- Index funds S&P 500 (7–10%): Moderate risk, long-term
- Real estate (8–12%): Higher risk, illiquid
How Investment Growth Works
An investment grows from two engines: the money you contribute and the returns those contributions earn over time. When returns are reinvested they start earning their own returns — compounding — which is why starting early often matters more than starting big. This calculator projects the future value of a starting amount plus regular contributions at an assumed annual rate of return.
A Worked Example
Suppose you start with $5,000, add $200 a month, and earn 7% a year. Over 20 years you'd contribute $53,000 of your own money, but the balance would grow to roughly $123,000 — more than double — thanks to compounding. Stretch the horizon to 30 years and the gap widens sharply. See the same effect on a lump sum with the compound interest calculator.
Reading the Result Honestly
Projections assume a steady return, but real markets rise and fall. Use a conservative rate (broad stock markets have historically averaged around 7% after inflation, though future returns are not guaranteed), and remember the figure is before taxes and fees. This tool is for planning and education, not a promise of returns.