Change in Percentage Calculator

Calculate the change in percentage between two values. Works for both increases and decreases. Perfect for tracking changes over time.

Starting or original value

Ending or new value

What is Change in Percentage?

Change in percentage measures how much a value has changed relative to its original value, expressed as a percentage. It shows the relative change between an initial value and a final value, whether that change is an increase or decrease.

This calculator helps you understand the magnitude of change in percentage terms, making it easier to compare changes across different scales and contexts.

How to Use the Change in Percentage Calculator

  1. Enter initial value: Input the starting or original value.
  2. Enter final value: Input the ending or new value.
  3. Calculate: Click "Calculate Change" to see the change in percentage and absolute change.

Understanding Change in Percentage

Formula

Change in Percentage = ((Final Value - Initial Value) / Initial Value) × 100. Positive values indicate increases, negative values indicate decreases.

Positive Change

A positive percentage change means the value has increased. For example, £100 to £120 = +20% change.

Negative Change

A negative percentage change means the value has decreased. For example, £100 to £80 = -20% change.

Why Use Percentage Change?

Percentage change allows you to compare changes across different scales. A £10 change means different things for a £100 item vs a £1,000 item, but percentage change provides context.

Common Use Cases

Price Changes

Track how prices have changed over time. Example: £50 to £60 = +20% change.

Performance Metrics

Measure changes in sales, revenue, or other business metrics between periods.

Investment Returns

Calculate how investments have changed. Example: £1,000 to £1,200 = +20% return.

Population Changes

Track population growth or decline over time periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is change in percentage calculated?

Change in Percentage = ((Final Value - Initial Value) / Initial Value) × 100. This gives you the relative change as a percentage.

What does a positive percentage change mean?

A positive percentage change indicates an increase. The value has grown from the initial to the final value.

What does a negative percentage change mean?

A negative percentage change indicates a decrease. The value has reduced from the initial to the final value.

Can the initial value be zero?

No, the initial value cannot be zero because division by zero is undefined. If you're starting from zero, you can't calculate a meaningful percentage change.

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