Average Return Calculator

Calculate both arithmetic average return and compound annual growth rate from start and end values over time.

Preparing Average Return Calculator

Please wait ...

Input

Enter the start value, end value, and time span to compare simple average return with annualized compound growth. This tool shows the result instantly without step-by-step output.

Input summary

Your calculator summary shows here.

How to use Average Return Calculator

Provide the investment values and time period, and the calculator will show the difference between average return and annualized compounded growth.

What this calculator is for

This calculator is for performance review and investor education when headline average return can paint a different picture from compounded annual growth. It helps explain why CAGR is often the more useful summary for multi-year growth.

Tips

Arithmetic average and CAGR answer different questions, so do not assume they should match on a volatile return path.
Use the full time period consistently when comparing investments, because shortened windows can exaggerate or understate annualized results.

Related calculators

These tools are closely connected to Average Return Calculator and help strengthen internal navigation across related topics.