Break-Even CPA Calculator
Last updated: July 2026
Calculate the maximum cost per acquisition that breaks even on a first order.
Break-even CPA
—
- Gross profit before variable order costs: —
- Variable order costs: —
- Break-even CPA as % of revenue: —
On this page
Quick summary: Calculate the maximum cost per acquisition that breaks even on a first order. Enter your own values, calculate, and compare scenarios in US dollars.
Read the complete guide
What this calculator estimates
Calculate the maximum cost per acquisition that breaks even on a first order. The calculation runs locally in your browser and is intended for planning and comparison.
How to use it
Enter the requested values, select Calculate, review the headline result and supporting figures, then change one input at a time to compare another scenario.
How the calculation works
Break-even CPA is first-order gross profit less variable fulfillment, refund and support costs.
Input checklist
The Break-Even CPA Calculator uses the values shown in its form. Before calculating, check each input independently so an incorrect unit or time period does not carry through to the final result.
- Average order value ($): verify that this value uses the unit, period, and definition shown by the calculator.
- Product gross margin (%): verify that this value uses the unit, period, and definition shown by the calculator.
- Fulfillment and payment cost per order ($): verify that this value uses the unit, period, and definition shown by the calculator.
- Expected refund and discount cost per order ($): verify that this value uses the unit, period, and definition shown by the calculator.
- Variable support cost per new customer ($): verify that this value uses the unit, period, and definition shown by the calculator.
Practical interpretation
Use the Break-Even CPA Calculator result as the answer to the specific inputs entered, not as a universal value. The calculation currently described on this page is: Break-even CPA is first-order gross profit less variable fulfillment, refund and support costs. Change one important input at a time when comparing scenarios so you can see which assumption actually drives the difference.
Checks before relying on the result
The result depends on the values and units entered. Recheck the inputs and compare the estimate with the real-world source or rule that applies to your situation. Recalculate when a key value changes, and keep the original inputs with the result if you need to reproduce or compare the calculation later.
Important limitations
This first-order view excludes repeat purchases, fixed overhead, taxes, chargebacks and attribution uncertainty.
Frequently asked questions
Is this result exact?
No. It is a planning estimate based on the values entered and the method described on the page.
Can I enter Arabic or Persian digits?
Yes. Arabic and Persian digits are normalized to English digits inside numeric fields.
Does the calculator store my inputs?
No. The calculation runs locally in your browser and does not require an account.