Simple CAGR Rate Calculator (Minimal, Accessible)

Compute compound annual growth rate from a starting value, an ending value, and a time period in years.

Accepts plain numbers or with currency symbols and commas.
Accepts plain numbers or with currency symbols and commas.
Use decimals for partial years (e.g., 6 months = 0.5).
CAGR: —
Enter values to compute.
Advanced Options
Optional: Factor in inflation impact

Questions & Answers

What is CAGR?

Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) is the average annual growth rate of an investment over a specified period, assuming profits are reinvested. It provides a smoothed-out measure of an investment's return.

What is the CAGR rate formula?

The CAGR rate formula is (Ending Value / Starting Value)^(1 / Number of Years) - 1. It calculates the constant annual growth rate of an investment over time. Our cagr rate calculator automates this calculation for you.

When is a CAGR calculator most useful?

A CAGR calculator is most useful for comparing the historical performance of different investments (like stocks, funds, or bonds) over the same time horizon or for evaluating a single investment's past performance.

Is CAGR the same as the average annual return?

No. The average annual return is a simple mean and can be misleading because it ignores the effects of compounding. CAGR is more accurate as it represents the investment's true growth over time.

What does CAGR not tell me?

CAGR does not reflect investment volatility. An investment might have a steady CAGR but experience significant price swings from year to year. It is a historical measure and does not predict future returns.

How can I calculate CAGR in Excel?

Quick Setup Table

Cell Content Example
A1 Starting Value 1000
A2 Ending Value 1500
A3 Years 3
A4 CAGR Result =RRI(A3,A1,A2)

Formula to Copy

=RRI(A3,A1,A2)

Step-by-Step

  1. Enter your values:
    • A1: Your starting investment amount
    • A2: Your ending investment amount
    • A3: Number of years
  2. Add the formula:
    • Click cell A4
    • Type: =RRI(A3,A1,A2)
    • Press Enter
  3. Format as percentage:
    • Select cell A4
    • Press Ctrl+Shift+% (or use % button)

Example Result

With the values above:

  • Starting: $1,000
  • Ending: $1,500
  • Years: 3
  • CAGR: 14.47%

Notes

  • All values must be positive numbers
  • Years can be decimals (e.g., 2.5 for 2.5 years)
  • RRI function works in Excel 2013 and newer
Item added to cart.
0 items - $0.00