Financial calculator
DCA Calculator
Estimate how dollar-cost averaging — a starting amount plus a recurring monthly contribution at a return assumption you choose — could accumulate over time, for an index like the S&P 500 or an ETF such as VOO.
How to use this calculator
Enter a starting amount, your monthly contribution, a return assumption, and the number of years. The result is an illustrative future value based only on those inputs — not a forecast. To compare with a lump sum, set the monthly contribution to 0 and put the full amount in the starting balance.
Inputs are editable, results update locally in the browser, and outputs are informational estimates based only on the assumptions entered.
What dollar-cost averaging is
Dollar-cost averaging (DCA) means investing a fixed amount on a regular schedule — say every month — regardless of price. It spreads buying across time instead of investing everything at once.
This calculator estimates where a DCA plan could land: it compounds your starting balance and each monthly contribution at the annual return you assume, over the years you set.
Monthly DCA into an index or ETF
To model recurring investing into a broad index such as the S&P 500, or an ETF like VOO, QQQ, or SPY, enter your monthly amount and a return assumption you are comfortable with. The output separates what you contributed from estimated growth, so you can see the compounding rather than just the total.
The return figure is an assumption you control — there is no 'correct' number, and past performance does not guarantee future results.
DCA vs lump sum
To compare dollar-cost averaging with investing a lump sum at the start, run it twice: once with your monthly contribution, and once with the contribution set to 0 and the full amount placed in the starting balance. Compare the two estimated values.
Neither path is guaranteed to come out ahead — the comparison simply shows how the same money behaves under each schedule with your chosen assumptions.
Data notice: Market data may be delayed, incomplete, or unavailable for some securities. Metrics are provided for informational purposes only.
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Calculator notes
- The calculator runs in the browser and keeps the assumptions visible to the reader.
- Inputs are transparent and editable, which makes the assumptions visible to the reader.
- Results are estimates for informational purposes and can be compared with stock and ETF research pages.
Financial disclaimer
This website provides informational content only and is not financial advice. We do not recommend buying or selling securities. Market data may be delayed, incomplete, or inaccurate. Always verify information with official sources before making financial decisions.
Related stock and ETF pages
FAQ
What is a DCA calculator?
It estimates how a dollar-cost-averaging plan — a starting amount plus regular contributions at an assumed return — could grow over time, separating contributions from estimated growth.
How do I model monthly DCA into the S&P 500 or VOO?
Enter your starting amount, the monthly contribution, a return assumption you choose, and the number of years. The estimate uses only those inputs; it is not a forecast for any specific index or ETF.
Does this show DCA vs lump sum?
Yes, with two runs: model your recurring contribution once, then set the monthly contribution to 0 and put the full amount in the starting balance, and compare the two results.
What return assumption should I use?
There is no correct number — it is your assumption. Try a range of values to see how sensitive the result is; past performance does not guarantee future returns.