Dollar-Cost Averaging Calculator
See how steady monthly investing accumulates over time, and how it compares with putting a lump sum in today.
Leave 0 if you have nothing to invest up front.
- Monthly investing
Enter amounts to see this chart.
| Per month | Per year | Over 0 years | Projected value |
|---|---|---|---|
| $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
What this means
Investing $0 every month regardless of the market gets you to about $0. You automatically buy more units when prices are low and fewer when they are high.
How it works
Dollar-cost averaging means investing a fixed amount on a schedule. It removes the temptation to time the market and smooths out your purchase price. Historically a lump sum invested early often ends up ahead, but DCA is what most people can actually do with a paycheque.
Nothing you type here is saved or sent anywhere — it stays in your browser.
What dollar-cost averaging is
Investing the same amount on a schedule regardless of price. You buy more units when prices are low and fewer when they are high, which removes timing decisions and makes investing a habit rather than a judgement call.
Lump sum vs monthly
Because markets rise more often than they fall, investing a lump sum immediately has historically come out ahead on average. Spreading it out reduces regret and the risk of a bad entry point — a reasonable trade if it keeps you invested.
Automating it
Set the transfer for payday and the purchase right after it. Automation is what turns a good intention into fifteen years of contributions.
Common questions
- Does DCA guarantee a better result?
- No. It reduces timing risk and behavioural mistakes; it does not raise expected returns.
- How often should I invest?
- Whatever matches your pay cycle. Monthly or biweekly is plenty — more frequent purchases add nothing meaningful.
Related WealthTree tools
Learn the ideas behind this tool
Short Canadian lessons from the free Financial Survival path.
Understand the numbers, not just the answer
WealthTree teaches Canadian money basics in 5-minute lessons — TFSAs, RRSPs, FHSAs, credit and investing. The first path is free.