How to use the CPC Calculator
- 1
Enter ad spend, clicks and conversions for the same campaign and dates.
- 2
Enter the gross profit from one sale and how many leads become sales (100% for online orders).
- 3
Compare your CPC with the break-even max CPC. If CPC is higher, fix conversion rate or bids.
Cost per click and cost per acquisition
CPC = ad spend ÷ clicks. CPA (or cost per lead) = ad spend ÷ conversions. $2,500 spent for 410 clicks and 23 leads is a $6.10 CPC and a $108.70 cost per lead.
How to find your maximum CPC
Break-even max CPC = conversion rate × close rate × profit per sale. With a 5.6% conversion rate, 40% of leads closing and $900 profit per job, each click is worth about $20. Pay more than that and the campaign loses money.
Compare that number with the CPCs in your market. In legal, HVAC and roofing, clicks often cost $20 to $100, which is why many local businesses shift budget into SEO: the clicks keep coming without a per-click fee.
Frequently asked questions
How is CPC calculated?
Total ad spend divided by total clicks.
What is the difference between CPC and CPA?
CPC is the cost of one click. CPA is the cost of one conversion, such as a lead, call or order. CPA = CPC ÷ conversion rate.
What is a good cost per click?
One below your break-even max CPC. Averages vary from under $1 in some retail niches to over $50 in legal and home services.
How do I lower my CPC?
Improve Quality Score with tighter ad groups and relevant landing pages, add negative keywords and bid on longer, more specific searches.
Is my data stored?
No. Everything is calculated in your browser.