Break-Even CPA Calculator

Find the most you can pay per conversion and still break even, based on revenue per conversion and contribution margin.

Average order value, or average deal size for a single conversion.
Use the Contribution Margin Calculator if you need to work this out first.

Formula

Break-Even CPA = Revenue per Conversion × Contribution Margin

To turn this into a break-even CPC, plug this figure into the Maximum CPC Calculator as the "allowable CPA" — that calculator's formula (Allowable CPA × Conversion Rate) is exactly the break-even CPC when the CPA you enter is already your break-even CPA.

Worked Example

An average order is worth $100, with a 50% contribution margin. Break-even CPA = $100 × 0.50 = $50.00. Paying more than $50 per conversion means that sale lost money overall.