Compute simple and exponential moving averages for a series of numbers.
Please do not make financial decisions based on these results.
What is the Moving Average Calculator?
Compute simple and exponential moving averages for a series of numbers. To use the Moving Average Calculator, enter values in order, window length; it returns simple moving average (latest), exponential moving average (latest), latest value, and shows them instantly as you type.
Comparing returns
To judge past performance use the average return calculator and the ROI calculator. For projects with several cash flows, the IRR calculator gives a single comparable rate, and the payback period calculator shows how long it takes to recover the cost.
How to use the Moving Average Calculator
- Enter your numbers. The inputs are Values in order (comma separated), Window length (n). Use a rate of return you consider realistic; small changes compound into large differences. Fields marked optional can stay at zero.
- Read the result. The highlighted box gives the Simple moving average (latest), and the cards below show Exponential moving average (latest), Latest value. Tables and charts break it down further.
- Test other scenarios. Results update as you type. Change one value at a time to see what drives the answer, and press Reset to go back to the defaults.
Formula and how it works
Example with real numbers
Here is the Moving Average Calculator using the default values shown in the calculator above:
Inputs
| Values in order (comma separated) | 10, 12, 11, 13, 15, 14, 16, 18, 17, 19 |
|---|---|
| Window length (n) | 3 |
Results
| Simple moving average (latest) | 18 |
|---|---|
| Exponential moving average (latest) | 17.86 |
| Latest value | 19 |
With these inputs the calculator returns Simple moving average (latest): 18. Change any value in the calculator to see how the result moves.
What the results tell you
The results panel of the Moving Average Calculator reports Simple moving average (latest), exponential moving average (latest) and latest value. Compare these figures while changing one input at a time, and use the related calculators below to look at the same situation from another angle.
Method and limits. This calculator applies the formula in the section above to your inputs, in your browser; nothing you enter is stored on our servers. Investment returns are not guaranteed. The result shows what the numbers you enter would produce, not what the market will do. It is for information, not financial, tax or legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does a moving average show?
It smooths short-term noise to reveal the trend.
Are investment returns guaranteed?
No. Real returns vary. Use these tools to compare scenarios, not to predict results.
What rate of return should I assume?
There is no guaranteed rate. Test a range of conservative and optimistic rates, and remember that fees and inflation reduce your real return.
Are the results guaranteed?
No. Results depend entirely on the numbers you enter and the formulas shown on this page. Please do not make financial decisions based on them alone; confirm important figures with a licensed professional.
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