Capital Gains Yield Calculator
Calculate capital gains yield from the change between purchase and current or sale price. Add distributions and fees to see why capital gains yield differs from total return.
Written and checked by TheToolNet Editorial Team · Last reviewed: September 27, 2026 · Editorial method
Capital gains yield = (sale or current price − purchase price − price-related fees) ÷ purchase price.
Calculate capital gains yield
Capital gains yield versus total return
Capital gains yield measures only price appreciation or depreciation after entered fees. Income yield measures cash distributions relative to the purchase value. Adding them produces the simple total return displayed here.
Unrealized and realized gains
Using a current market price estimates an unrealized gain. Using actual sale proceeds produces a realized before-tax figure. Neither result is automatically taxable gain because tax basis adjustments and jurisdiction-specific rules can differ.
Not an annualized measure
Capital gains yield does not account for time. A 15% gain over one year is not equivalent to a 15% gain over five years. Use the total return calculator when you also need an annualized result.
Frequently asked questions
Do dividends count as capital gains yield?
No. They are income yield. The calculator displays them separately and includes them only in total return.
Does this calculate capital-gains tax?
No. Tax basis, holding period, exemptions, rates, and reporting rules depend on facts and jurisdiction.