How future salary projections work
For percentage raises, the calculator applies each year's raise to the salary at the end of the previous year. For a fixed-dollar plan, it adds the same dollar amount to annual salary each year. These methods are separate rather than combined.
For example, $60,000 with a 5% annual increase for two years becomes $66,150 after year 2. A fixed $2,000 annual raise over two years would instead produce $64,000.
Nominal salary vs. inflation-adjusted salary
Nominal salary is the dollar figure in future years. Inflation-adjusted salary estimates its purchasing power expressed in today's dollars, using the annual inflation rate you enter:
These illustrations do not use a forecast or inflation API. Real pay, inflation and employment patterns may differ substantially.
What cumulative salary means
We add the annual gross salary displayed for each projection year, starting at year 1. This is a simplified earnings sum, not discounted cash flow. It excludes bonuses, stock compensation, benefits, taxes and interruptions to employment.
Frequently asked questions
Does a 5% raise compound every year?
In percentage mode, yes. Each new annual salary is 105% of the prior year's salary. Fixed-dollar mode adds the same amount each year instead.
Can I download the yearly results?
Yes. Select Download CSV to export the projected nominal and inflation-adjusted salaries in a spreadsheet-friendly format. It is generated in your browser.
Does this predict my actual future salary?
No. The calculation only shows what follows from your chosen assumptions.
Other calculators
For a single salary adjustment, use the pay raise calculator. For general numeric changes, use the percentage increase calculator.