Inflation Rate Adjuster
Enter the rate you set years ago and see what it should be in 2026 dollars, adjusted for CPI inflation.
CPI-Adjusted Rate for 2026
Up $20 from your 2020 rate of $60/hr
In plain terms: If you are still charging $60/hr from 2020, you are earning 30.5% less in real purchasing power than when you originally set that rate.
How This Works
This tool uses the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to calculate how much your old rate should be worth in 2026 dollars. The CPI measures the average change in prices paid by urban consumers for a basket of goods and services.
The formula is simple: New Rate = Old Rate × (CPI_2026 / CPI_original_year). We round up to the nearest $5 for clean, professional pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CPI the right measure for freelance rate adjustments?
CPI is the bare minimum adjustment. It keeps your purchasing power flat. In reality, your rates should grow faster than CPI because your skills improve with experience. Use the Rate Increase Calculator for a more comprehensive recommendation.
Where does the CPI data come from?
We use annual average CPI-U figures from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. The 2025 and 2026 figures are projections based on current trends (~3.5% annualized).
What if I am outside the US?
CPI varies by country, but the principle is the same. If you bill in USD (common for international freelancers), this tool still gives you a useful baseline. For local currency rates, check your national statistics office for local CPI data.