HCIPy performs end-to-end simulations of high-contrast astronomical imaging systems in a unified, object-oriented Python framework. It represents wavefronts and optical elements explicitly and supports both Fraunhofer and Fresnel diffraction propagators, including polarized propagation using Jones calculus with built-in polarizing elements and waveplates. The package models atmospheric turbulence with thin, infinitely-long phase screens, optionally including scintillation via layered Fresnel propagation, and implements a variety of wavefront sensors such as Shack–Hartmann and pyramid sensors. HCIPy also includes several coronagraph designs, including vortex, Lyot, and apodizing phase plate coronagraphs, and couples adaptive optics and coronagraphy so that post-coronagraph focal-plane wavefront sensing can feed back into the AO system.