Dollar-Cost Averaging Calculator

About this calculator

Dollar-cost averaging (DCA) means investing a fixed amount at regular intervals — weekly, monthly, or per paycheck — instead of committing a lump sum all at once. Because the fixed amount buys more shares when prices are low and fewer when prices are high, it naturally lowers your average cost basis compared to buying a constant number of shares each time, and it removes the pressure of trying to time the market.

This calculator estimates your plan's current value from your per-period contribution, the number of periods, the average price you paid per share, and today's price, then derives your total invested amount and return on investment. It is the strategy behind automatic 401(k) and index-fund contributions, and is widely recommended by advocates of passive, low-effort investing such as the Bogleheads community.