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Free online tool · Advertising

CPA / Cost Per Acquisition Calculator

Understand tracked acquisition costs and estimate what a planned budget might support.

Illustrated interface showing the CPA / Cost Per Acquisition Calculator tool workflow
Illustration of this tool’s workflow. The working controls are directly below.

Calculate and forecast acquisition cost

Enter figures using a consistent currency and a clear acquisition definition, such as qualified leads or completed sales.

Calculate actual CPA and an illustrative budget scenario.

What is cost per acquisition (CPA)?

CPA = advertising spend ÷ tracked acquisitions. For example, 1,200 spent on ads and 40 tracked acquisitions produces a CPA of 30 in the currency used. A budget of 1,800 at an assumed CPA of 30 gives a scenario of 60 acquisitions.

CPA differs from cost per click: not every click converts. Actual results depend on conversion measurement, attribution, ad auctions, creative and customer intent. Check whether your CPA fits contribution margin, acquisition targets and the business model before increasing spend.

Frequently asked questions

Is the forecast guaranteed?

No. It divides a hypothetical budget by an assumed CPA; it does not predict future results.

Can actual CPA be zero?

Yes, if attributed advertising spend is zero and the acquisition count is positive. Other expenses may still exist.

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