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Investment Return Calculator

Project your portfolio growth with regular contributions. See the real effect of time, rate, and consistency.

📈 Projected Final Value — — in gains
Total Invested —
Total Gains —
Principal —
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These calculators provide estimates for educational purposes only. Results are not guaranteed and should not be treated as financial advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making major financial decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do investments grow over time?

Investments grow through compound returns: your earnings generate additional earnings. At 7% average annual return, a $10,000 investment grows to about $19,700 in 10 years and $76,100 in 30 years — without adding a single extra dollar.

What is a realistic average stock market return?

The S&P 500 has historically returned about 10% annually before inflation (7% after inflation). However, markets are volatile — you might see +25% one year and -15% the next. Long-term averages smooth out these fluctuations.

How does compound growth work for investments?

Compound growth means your investment earnings stay invested and generate their own earnings. If your portfolio earns 8% this year, next year you earn 8% on the original principal plus 8% on the previous year's gains. This snowball effect accelerates over time.

What's the difference between taxable and tax-advantaged accounts?

Tax-advantaged accounts (401(k), IRA, Roth IRA) offer tax breaks: traditional accounts give upfront deductions, Roth accounts give tax-free withdrawals. Taxable brokerage accounts have no special treatment but offer unlimited contribution limits and penalty-free withdrawals.

How much should I invest each month to reach $1 million?

At 7% average returns: investing $500/month reaches $1M in about 35 years. $1,000/month reaches it in 27 years. $2,000/month gets there in 20 years. Starting earlier matters more than the monthly amount — time is the most powerful investment factor.

Why this matters

Starting with $5,000, adding $300/month at 7%: you invest $113,000 over 30 years. Your portfolio grows to $365,000. The other $252,000 is pure growth — money you didn't have to earn. Start 10 years late and that drops to $162K. Time in the market beats timing the market.