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What $100 of today's prices will cost
At the Fed's 2% target, a typical 3%, and the US average since 1913 (3.17% a year, from BLS CPI data):
| Year | At 2% | At 3% | At 3.17% | $100 buys (3%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2030 | $108.24 | $112.55 | $113.30 | $88.85 |
| 2035 | $119.51 | $130.48 | $132.43 | $76.64 |
| 2040 | $131.95 | $151.26 | $154.79 | $66.11 |
| 2045 | $145.68 | $175.35 | $180.93 | $57.03 |
| 2050 | $160.84 | $203.28 | $211.49 | $49.19 |
Looking back instead? See what past dollars are worth today. Protect your savings from inflation with an interest-earning plan.
Why prices keep rising
The Federal Reserve aims for 2% inflation a year over time. Actual inflation has swung far from that — from falling prices in the early 1930s to double digits around 1980 and a spike in 2022. Over the long run, US prices have risen about 3.17% a year, which doubles prices roughly every 22 years. Money sitting in cash loses that much buying power every year; savings that earn more than inflation keep up.
Assumptions
- A projection, not a forecast: future inflation is unknown. Historical averages come from the BLS CPI-U (annual averages to the latest month).
- Inflation is assumed steady every year; real prices of specific things (rent, tuition, health care) can rise faster or slower.
Frequently asked questions
How much will $100 be worth in 10 years?+
At 3% inflation, $100 today will buy about $74.41 of today's goods in 2036, and something that costs $100 now will cost about $134.39. At the Fed's 2% target it would cost $121.90.
What inflation rate should I use for planning?+
Many planners use 2.5–3% for long-term goals. The Fed targets 2%, and the US average since 1913 is about 3.17% a year. For costs that tend to rise faster, such as health care or college, use a higher rate.
How long until prices double?+
At 3% a year, prices double in about 23 years; at 2%, about 35 years; at 4%, about 18 years. A quick shortcut is the rule of 72: divide 72 by the inflation rate.
Is this a forecast?+
No. It projects prices forward at the rate you choose. No one can predict inflation precisely, so compare a few scenarios.
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Last reviewed October 18, 2026. Calculator version 1.0.0. Sources: US Bureau of Labor Statistics — CPI-U, US city average, all items (CUUR0000SA0). Results are estimates for educational purposes, not financial, tax or lending advice. How we check our numbers. Embed this calculator on your site for free.