Finance Guide

How to Calculate Percentage Increase and Decrease

Percentage change shows how much a value moved relative to its original amount. It is one of the most used formulas in reporting, budgets, and pricing decisions.

By Sarah J. Williams | Updated: 2026 | Category: Finance | Reading Time: 6 minutes

Percentage Increase Formula

% Increase = ((New - Old) / Old) x 100

Example:

  • Old = 200
  • New = 260
  • Increase = 60
  • Percentage increase = 30%
Inline explainer for Percentage Increase Formula.
Inline visual supporting the section on Percentage Increase Formula.

Percentage Decrease Formula

% Decrease = ((Old - New) / Old) x 100

Example:

  • Old = 120
  • New = 90
  • Decrease = 30
  • Percentage decrease = 25%

Why Percentage Change Matters

  • Salary raise analysis
  • Stock and investment movement
  • Business revenue growth tracking
  • Weight-loss and performance tracking
  • Price drops and budget adjustments

For broader percentage tasks, use Percentage Calculator. For return-focused comparisons, see ROI Calculator. If you need a dedicated workflow, use Percentage Change Calculator.

Use the NerdCalc Percentage Change Calculator

Enter your old and new values and get instant results without manual math.