Latest figures
Next inflation figure from ONS: 21 October 2026
Which savings accounts beat inflation?
226 of the 232 savings accounts in our comparison tables pay more than 3.1% inflation right now, while the average easy access account across all UK banks pays 2.06%. The real return is what the best rate in each category is worth once rising prices are taken off.
| Account type | Best rate | Real return | Beating inflation | Compare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Easy access | 5.00% | +1.84% | 35 of 37 | Compare |
| Cash ISAs | 5.25% | +2.09% | 83 of 86 | Compare |
| Notice accounts | 4.40% | +1.26% | 22 of 23 | Compare |
| Fixed-rate bonds | 5.37% | +2.20% | 86 of 86 | Compare |
Rates are before tax. Some top rates apply to limited balances or need conditions to be met; check the account details before you apply.
What will your savings really be worth?
Enter your savings and rate to see your balance in the future, and what it will buy in today's money.
Your savings
Quick picks use today's easy access rates.
In 5 years
Left earning no interest, the same £10,000 would buy only £8,584 of today's shopping.
Assumes interest is added once a year at a fixed rate, before tax, with inflation the same every year. Real rates and prices change.
Inflation vs savings rates over time
Over the last 10 years, the average easy access account paid more than inflation in only 9 months. The best accounts do far better than the average, which is why it pays to compare.
Monthly averages of advertised rates from the Bank of England (Table G1.3) and CPI from ONS. The latest average Cash ISA rate is 1.95%. More detail on the Savings Rate Tracker.
How to keep your savings ahead of inflation
Move money out of low-rate accounts
Many high street accounts pay well below inflation. Moving to a top easy access account is the quickest way to a positive real return.
Compare easy access accountsShelter interest from tax
Tax on interest above your Personal Savings Allowance eats into your real return. Interest in a Cash ISA is tax-free.
Check tax on your savingsLock in a rate if you expect falls
Fixed-rate bonds hold their rate for the whole term, which helps when inflation and Bank Rate are expected to come down.
Compare fixed-rate bondsGet told when rates change
Rates move often. A rate alert tells you when a better account appears, so your money doesn't drift below inflation.
Set up rate alertsFrequently asked questions
Official data sources
Account rates come from the DepositScout comparison tables. This page is general information, not financial advice. How we make money · Editorial policy