529 College Savings Calculator

College costs inflate at ~5%/year. A $25K/year school today will cost $65K+/year in 18 years.

What this calculator does

529 plans offer tax-free growth and withdrawals for qualified education expenses.

When to use this calculator

Use this calculator before making any financial commitment that depends on this type of calculation. Running the numbers in advance lets you evaluate options without the pressure of a live negotiation or decision deadline.

Common mistakes

The most consequential mistake is comparing financial figures that are not on the same basis — gross versus net, before-tax versus after-tax, or nominal versus inflation-adjusted. Always check whether figures you are comparing use the same definition.

Real-world scenarios

A first-time buyer models three scenarios before making an offer: 10%, 15%, and 20% deposit on a £280,000 property. The calculator shows exactly how the monthly payment and total interest cost change with each deposit level, making the decision visible rather than speculative.

Frequently asked questions

How much should I save in a 529?

Aim for 50–75% of projected costs. Plan for $500–

,000/month starting at birth for a 4-year private school.

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