A familiar situation
If you know what an investment cost and what it is worth now, annualize the change over the holding period. This compound annual growth rate smooths the path and does not represent each year’s actual return.
How to use this calculator
- Enter initial investment, ending value, holding period.
- Select Calculate to see the answer and its breakdown.
- Keep a scenario, change an input and compare the results.
Use consistent units and check the assumptions below before applying the result.
How average return is calculated
Annualized growth assumes the entire change occurred at one steady compound rate and ignores interim deposits or withdrawals. Total ROI, when shown, compares gain with the initial amount. Formula: CAGR = (ending value ÷ starting value)^(1 ÷ years) − 1. Use the displayed details to inspect the intermediate amounts and replace example assumptions with terms from your own quote or records.
CAGR = (ending value ÷ starting value)^(1 ÷ years) − 1.An investment that doubles in 10 years has a compound annual growth rate of about 7.18%.
Assumptions & useful context
The result depends on the values you enter and the method described above. Displayed numbers may be rounded; calculations use the unrounded values. Check that this model matches your situation before relying on it.
Financial projections use your assumptions. Actual returns, lender terms, fees and tax rules can differ; these results do not guarantee a future outcome.
Frequently asked questions
Average Return Calculator: what does the result include?
No. Annualized return expresses a multi-year change as one compound rate per year; total return measures the whole gain over the holding period.
Average Return Calculator: which assumptions matter most?
No. The calculation compares only the entered initial and ending values. Use an investment projection when regular contributions matter.