Free S&P 500 return calculator — see how compound growth builds long-term wealth
This free S&P 500 return calculator (also an investment return calculator) shows you how much your money would grow if you invested in the S&P 500 index fund. The S&P 500 has averaged about 10% annual returns over the last 100 years — the power of compound growth turns small monthly investments into million-dollar portfolios.
The best way to build long-term wealth is simple: consistently invest in low-cost S&P 500 index funds and let compound growth do the work. This calculator shows you exactly how powerful that strategy is.
Compound growth is the 8th wonder of the world. Over 30 years, $500/month at 10% annual return grows to over $1.1 million. That's because your investment gains themselves earn gains — it's exponential growth.
The key is to start early and stay consistent. Even $100/month in your 20s beats $1,000/month in your 40s.
The S&P 500 has averaged about 10% annual returns (before inflation) over the last 100 years. After inflation, it's about 7%. Some years are up 30%, some are down 20% — but over 20+ years, the trend is always up.
Yes! It's the best way for regular people to build long-term wealth. It beats 90% of professional fund managers over 10+ year periods. Just buy and hold through market crashes.
Aim to save 10-15% of your income for retirement. Most of that should be in low-cost S&P 500 index funds like VOO or SPY. Start with whatever you can afford — even $50/month is better than nothing.
Market crashes are normal — they happen every few years. But the S&P 500 always recovers and hits new highs. Don't sell when the market drops; keep buying at discount prices.
Yes, you can absolutely become a millionaire by consistently investing in the S&P 500. At $500/month for 30 years at 10% annual returns, you'll have over $1 million. It's slow and boring, but it works.