Average Return Calculator

Calculate your investment performance with CAGR, average returns, and risk metrics. Use start/end values or enter annual returns for a detailed analysis.

Your Details

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Range: 1–100 years

Enter your details, then click Calculate to see your CAGR, average returns, risk metrics, and growth chart.

Complete User Guide

What is Average Return and CAGR?

The average return can mean the simple (arithmetic) average of period returns or the geometric average. The geometric average is the same as the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR): the constant yearly rate that would turn your starting value into your ending value over the same period. CAGR smooths volatility and is the standard way to compare investment performance over time.

CAGR = (Ending Value ÷ Beginning Value)^(1 ÷ Years) − 1

Use Start/End Values when you only know initial and final amounts; use Annual Returns when you have year-by-year returns and want arithmetic mean, geometric mean, standard deviation, and best/worst year.

What Your Results Mean

CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate)

The annualized return that would grow your initial value to your final value over the given years. Use it to compare different investments or time periods.

Arithmetic Mean

The simple average of your period returns. Shown when you enter annual returns. It does not account for compounding.

Geometric Mean

The compounded average return; same as CAGR for your series. Always lower than arithmetic mean when returns vary. This is the right measure for investment performance.

Total Return & Absolute Gain

Total return is the overall percentage gain or loss. Absolute gain is the dollar difference between final and initial value.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Select calculation type: Start/End Values or Annual Returns
  2. For Start/End Values: enter initial investment, final value, and number of years
  3. For Annual Returns: enter at least 2 yearly return percentages; click 'Add year' to add more
  4. Click 'Calculate Returns' to see your results
  5. Review the CAGR card, stats, benchmark comparison, and growth chart
  6. Read the guide below for interpretation

Understanding Your Results

CAGR Value

Your main result. It is the constant annual rate that would turn your starting amount into your ending amount over the given period.

Risk Metrics (Annual Returns only)

Standard deviation measures volatility. Best year and worst year show the highest and lowest single-year returns. Positive years is the count of years with a positive return.

Benchmark Comparison

Your return is compared visually to common benchmarks (e.g. S&P 500 historical ~10%%, bonds ~5%%) so you can see how your performance stacks up.

Growth Chart

Shows how your investment value would have grown year by year at the calculated CAGR or from your entered annual returns.

Formulas

CAGR from start and end values:

CAGR = (Ending Value / Beginning Value)^(1/Years) − 1

Geometric mean (equivalent to CAGR) from N period returns:

Geometric Mean = ( (1+r₁)(1+r₂)...(1+rₙ) )^(1/N) − 1

Important Notes

  • CAGR assumes a smooth growth path; actual returns will vary year to year.
  • This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not financial or investment advice.
  • Past performance does not guarantee future results. Consult a financial advisor for personal advice.

When to Use This Calculator

  • Comparing performance of different investments or time periods
  • Checking if your portfolio beat inflation or a benchmark
  • Estimating long-term growth from historical annual returns
  • Evaluating mutual funds, ETFs, or retirement account performance

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