What this calculator does
Every input on this investment return calculator maps to a real decision, so the output is something you can act on immediately, not a rough ballpark you'll have to double-check elsewhere.
Annualized return (CAGR) is the constant rate that would have taken your initial amount to the final value.
How to use the Investment Return Calculator
- Start by entering **Initial** — this anchors every downstream number in the investment return calculator.
- Fill in **Final Value** to reflect your specific situation.
- Set **Years**; the result and chart recalculate the moment you finish typing.
- Review the breakdown card for the components that make up the headline number.
- Use Copy, Share, or Print to save the exact scenario — or star it to keep it in your favorites.
The formula
CAGR = (final/initial)^(1/years) − 1
Worked example
$10k → $18k over 5 years = 12.5% CAGR.
Common mistakes
- Confusing CAGR with average return
- Not adjusting for contributions
- Ignoring dividends
When to use it
Use to compare investments over different time periods.
Pro tips for the Investment Return Calculator
- Round-trip check: reverse the inputs to confirm the formula matches what you'd compute by hand.
- Bookmark this page: the URL and inputs are all you need to reproduce the exact result later.
- Save your favorite scenarios by clicking the star icon — they're stored locally, no account needed.
Frequently asked questions
›CAGR vs average return?
CAGR accounts for compounding; average doesn't.
›Include dividends?
Use total return, which includes dividends.
›Inflation adjustment?
Subtract inflation for real return.
›Compare to S&P 500?
~10% nominal historical CAGR.
›Adjust for contributions?
Use IRR/MWR for irregular deposits.
›How accurate is this investment return calculator?
The formulas match the standard textbook definition shown above. Rounding is applied only for display; underlying computation uses full floating-point precision. For regulated finance decisions, always confirm with a qualified professional.
›Can I embed the Investment Return Calculator on my site?
Embedding isn't public yet, but you can link directly to this page — the URL is stable and shareable.
Embed this calculator
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