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Dollar-cost averaging

Average the cost of buying a fixed dollar amount at three different prices.

Built and maintained by The NumberPrism Editorial TeamEditorial policy

Your details

Results update as you type. The formula and assumptions are explained below the calculator.

Average cost per share

$49.14

Total invested$1,500.00
Units accumulated30.525
Value at the latest price$1,770.48
Gain or loss at the latest price$270.48
Return at the latest price18.03%

Illustrative estimate only: ignores fees, taxes and dividends. It is not investment advice or a prediction of future prices.

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What does this tool do?

Dollar-cost averaging spreads purchases across price points, so you buy more units when prices are low and fewer when they are high. This calculator shows the resulting average cost per unit.

The Formula

Average cost = Total invested ÷ (A ÷ P1 + A ÷ P2 + A ÷ P3)

Frequently Asked Questions

Does averaging guarantee a profit?

No. It changes the timing of purchases, not the quality of the asset. A falling price can still leave the position at a loss.

Why is the average cost below the simple mean price?

Equal dollar purchases buy more units at lower prices, so the average is pulled toward the cheaper purchases.