Tools
Gold vs Inflation Calculator
Would gold have protected your money from inflation? Enter an amount and a year to see how gold compares to inflation, savings accounts, and the S&P 500.
Gold prices: LBMA PM Fix annual averages. CPI: US Bureau of Labor Statistics (CPI-U). S&P 500 and savings returns are simplified averages for illustration — actual returns vary. This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this calculator work?
Enter a dollar amount and a year. The calculator shows what that amount invested in gold would be worth today, compared to cumulative inflation (CPI), a savings account (2% average annual return), and the S&P 500 (10% average annual return). Gold prices use LBMA PM Fix annual averages.
Is gold a good hedge against inflation?
Over long periods (10+ years), gold has historically maintained or exceeded its purchasing power. From 1975 to 2026, gold returned over 2,700% — far exceeding cumulative US inflation of ~510%. However, over shorter periods (1-5 years), gold does not always beat inflation. See our full analysis: Is gold a hedge against inflation?
Does gold outperform stocks?
Over most 20+ year periods, stocks (S&P 500) have outperformed gold due to dividend reinvestment and earnings growth. However, gold has outperformed stocks during certain periods — particularly during high inflation (1970s, 2020s) and financial crises. The best approach is to hold both: stocks for growth, gold for protection.
What year was the worst time to buy gold?
The worst entry point was 1980, when gold peaked at $850/oz during a speculative bubble. It took until 2008 — nearly 28 years — for gold to reclaim that price. However, even the 1980 buyer is now up significantly at today's prices above $4,600/oz.
Related Resources
This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Gold prices are LBMA PM Fix annual averages. CPI data from US Bureau of Labor Statistics. S&P 500 and savings returns are simplified averages — actual returns vary by year. Past performance does not guarantee future results.