How Much Interest Does $10,000 Earn?

See exactly how much $10,000 earns across high-yield savings accounts, CDs, Treasury bills, and I-Bonds at today's rates.

Quick Answer

Top HYSA (1 year)
+$449
4.40% APY
Best 1-Year CD
+$475
4.65% APY
I-Bonds (1 year)
+$93
4.03%
Regular Savings
+$1
0.01% APY

Detailed Earnings Comparison

ProductRate1-Year EarningsType
Betterment HYSA4.40%+$449HYSA
Vio Bank HYSA4.03%+$411HYSA
gainbridge 1-Year CD4.65%+$475CD
I-Bonds4.03%+$93Treasury
52-Week T-Bill3.52%+$352Treasury
Big Bank Savings (avg)0.01%+$1Savings

Based on $10,000 deposited today at current rates. HYSA rates are variable and may change. CD rates are locked for the term. I-Bond values include the 3-month interest penalty for early redemption (before 5 years).

Earnings at Different Amounts

At the top HYSA rate of 4.40%, here is what different amounts earn per year:

Amount SavedYearly InterestMonthly Interest
$1,000+$45+$4
$5,000+$224+$19
$10,000+$449+$37
$25,000+$1,122+$94
$50,000+$2,245+$187
$100,000+$4,490+$374

How to Maximize Your Interest

  • Use a high-yield savings account — the difference between 0.01% and 4.40% on $10K is $448/year
  • Compare rates regularly — HYSA rates change frequently as banks compete for deposits
  • Lock in with CDs if rates are high — guarantee today's rate for 12-24 months
  • Max out I-Bonds — buy $10,000/year for inflation-protected, tax-advantaged returns

Frequently Asked Questions

How much interest does $10,000 earn in a savings account?

At the current top HYSA rate of 4.40%, $10,000 earns approximately $449 in one year with monthly compounding. A regular savings account at 0.01% earns about $1 per year.

How much interest does $10,000 earn in a CD?

At the current best 1-year CD rate of 4.65%, $10,000 earns approximately $475 over 12 months. Longer-term CDs may offer different rates.

Is $10,000 in a high-yield savings account worth it?

Yes. At 4.40% APY, $10,000 earns roughly $449 per year in a HYSA compared to about $1 in a traditional savings account at 0.01%. That is essentially free money for keeping your savings in the right place.

Where should I put $10,000 for the best return?

For emergency funds, use a high-yield savings account for instant access. For money you will not need for 6-12 months, a CD can lock in a guaranteed rate. For long-term savings with inflation protection, I-Bonds are excellent (but have a $10,000 annual limit). The best approach depends on when you need the money.

How much does $10,000 earn in a money market account?

Money market accounts typically offer rates similar to or slightly below high-yield savings accounts. The best money market rates are in the same range as top HYSAs. The main difference is that money market accounts may offer check-writing privileges.