What is compound growth?

Compound growth is when returns earn returns over time. Growth can accelerate because each period’s gains are added to the balance and can generate future gains.

What inputs does a compound growth calculator use?

Most versions use a starting amount, a contribution amount (monthly or yearly), an assumed rate of return, and a time horizon in years.

Is the return rate guaranteed?

No. The calculator uses an assumed constant rate to illustrate compounding. Real-world returns vary and can be higher or lower over any period.

Does the estimate include taxes and fees?

Not usually unless the calculator specifically includes those options. Many simplified models ignore taxes, fees, and inflation.

Why do contributions matter so much?

Contributions increase the amount invested and give compounding more principal to work with. Over long periods, steady contributions can significantly increase the ending balance.

Compound Growth Calculator: Learn More

This calculator estimates how a balance may grow over time using compound growth plus ongoing contributions.

What to enter

Starting amount: your initial balance.
Contribution: how much you add (monthly or annually, depending on the calculator).
Estimated return rate: an illustrative average rate (not guaranteed).
Years: your time horizon.

How to read the results

Ending balance: estimated future value based on your assumptions.
Optional year-by-year view: shows how compounding accelerates over time.

Important assumptions

Uses a constant return rate (real markets vary year-to-year).
Typically ignores taxes, fees, and inflation unless explicitly included.

Try these quick experiments

Run two return rates (example: 5% vs 8%) to see sensitivity.
Increase contributions slightly and observe the long-term effect.

Educational use only. Not financial advice.