Investment Growth Calculator

See where consistent investing can take you

Enter your starting balance, monthly contribution, expected return, and time horizon to project future value — and understand how much comes from contributions versus growth.

Example investment growth chart showing projected portfolio balance rising over 20 years with monthly contributions at default inputs — Example chart using this page’s default inputs. Adjust the calculator to update the live chart below.

                    Your data stays on your device. Calculations run in your browser. Use Track this goal to save progress locally — no account required.
                

Starting Balance ($)

Contribution ($)

Contribution timing

Expected Annual Return (%)

Compounding

Time Horizon (Years)

—

Projected Balance Over Time

Contributions vs. Growth

Final Breakdown

                    Assumptions: Compounding and contribution timing follow your selections above (defaults: annual compounding, end-of-period contributions). Taxes, fees, and inflation are not included unless noted.
                    Projections are estimates only and not guaranteed returns or financial advice.
                

How This Calculator Works

We grow your balance using the compounding frequency you choose and add contributions at the start or end of each period. The chart shows projected balance by year; a second chart separates money you put in from investment growth.

Example

Starting with $10,000, investing $500/month at 8% average annual return for 20 years (annual compounding, end-of-month contributions) projects a portfolio of roughly $341,000 — with a large share from compounding.

FAQ

Is the expected return guaranteed?

No. Markets fluctuate. Use a long-term average assumption and treat results as estimates.

Should I use a pre-tax or after-tax return?

For taxable accounts, a lower after-tax assumption is often more realistic. Retirement accounts may grow tax-deferred.

Can I track this as a goal?

Yes. Click Track This Goal to save it locally in your browser and update progress later under My Goals.