Inflation Calculator — What Is Your Money Worth Today?
By MoneyDecoded · Updated April 2026 · Based on US CPI data
See how inflation has eroded the purchasing power of your money over time. Enter any amount and time period to instantly find its equivalent value in today's dollars.
📊 US Inflation Snapshot
2.8%
Current CPI (Feb 2026)
~$1.78
What $1 in 2000 = today
3.3%
Avg annual inflation (20yr)
Source: BLS CPI-U. Figures are approximate and for reference only.
Inflation is measured using the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which tracks the price of a basket of common goods and services. The Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes CPI-U data monthly. This calculator uses historical annual CPI averages to show how purchasing power has changed between any two years.
What is the best way to beat inflation? ▾
Common inflation hedges include stocks (historically outpace inflation over the long term), TIPS (Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities), I-bonds, real estate, and high-yield savings accounts. Holding cash long-term is the worst strategy — your purchasing power decreases every year inflation runs above 0%.
What was the worst US inflation period? ▾
The 1970s–80s saw the worst sustained inflation in modern US history, peaking at 14.8% in 1980. More recently, inflation hit 9.1% in June 2022 — the highest since 1981 — driven by post-pandemic supply disruptions. The Fed raised rates aggressively to bring it back toward its 2% target.
How much is $1,000 from 2000 worth today? ▾
Due to cumulative inflation, $1,000 in 2000 is worth approximately $1,780–$1,850 in 2026. This means if your salary was $50,000 in 2000 and hasn't kept pace with inflation, you've effectively taken a significant real pay cut over that period.
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