Inflation & Purchasing Power Calculator

Inflation is a sustained rise in the general price level. GUS measures it via the Consumer Price Index (CPI) — comparing the price of a representative basket of goods month-to-month and year-to-year.

If a deposit pays 3% and inflation is 5%, the real return is negative (~-2%). Money grows nominally but buys less. The calculator shows how much purchasing power you lose.

Approximate annual CPI: 2020 — 3.4%, 2021 — 5.1%, 2022 — 14.4%, 2023 — 11.4%, 2024 — ~4.2% (GUS data).

Historical CPI values are published on the GUS website (stat.gov.pl) and in NBP statistics. The default 4.2% reflects the 2024 Polish CPI average.

Deflation is negative inflation — prices fall, money buys more. Enter a negative rate to model a deflationary scenario.

Formula: value = amount × (1 + rate/100)^years. E.g., 10,000 PLN at 4.2% for 11 years ≈ 15,737 PLN.

Real rate ≈ nominal rate − inflation. If a deposit pays 4% and inflation is 5%, the real return is approximately -1%.

The Monetary Policy Council (RPP) sets NBP interest rates. Higher rates raise borrowing costs, reduce demand and slow price growth. The NBP inflation target is 2.5% ±1 pp.

No — the calculator shows only the nominal effect of inflation on purchasing power. It does not account for the 19% tax on capital gains (Belka tax) or savings account fees.

No — results are estimates. The calculator uses a constant annual rate, which is a simplification. Actual inflation changes each year. Consult a financial adviser for binding guidance.