Inflation Calculator (CPI)
Convert dollar amounts between years using CPI-based inflation estimates. An inflation calculator converts money from one year to another using CPI-based inflation estimates. It’s useful for understanding the buying power of money over time and for rough comparisons between historical prices and today’s dollars.
Inputs
$
From
To
Inflation-adjusted value
Equivalent value
$186.75
CPI (from)172.192
CPI (to)321.577
Inflation+86.75%
Uses CPIAUCSL (FRED). Monthly values are seasonally adjusted.
How to use it
- Enter a dollar amount.
- Select a start and end date (annual average or a specific month).
- Review the inflation-adjusted value.
- Use the notes section to understand the CPI approach.
Key formulas
- Inflation adjustment (CPI ratio)
- Adjusted = Amount × (CPI_end / CPI_start)
FAQ
CPI (Consumer Price Index) is a measure of average price changes over time for a basket of goods and services. It’s commonly used to estimate inflation.
Use monthly CPI when you care about a specific month (for example, comparing January of two years). Use annual averages for a broader year-to-year comparison.
No. CPI is an average basket; your personal inflation depends on what you buy (housing, healthcare, education, etc.).
It can provide useful context, but compensation comparisons also depend on taxes, benefits, location, and changes in household needs.
This tool uses CPIAUCSL values (FRED / BLS CPI). For official reference and methodology, see the Bureau of Labor Statistics CPI documentation.
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Disclaimer
Estimates only. CPI is a broad average and may not represent your personal inflation rate.