CPM Calculator

Calculate CPM (cost per thousand impressions) for an ad campaign, or find the total cost or number of impressions when you know the other two.

CPM formula

CPM = total cost ÷ impressions × 1,000 Cost = CPM × impressions ÷ 1,000 Impressions = cost ÷ CPM × 1,000

CPM stands for cost per mille, Latin for thousand. It is the standard way to price display, video and social ads.

Worked example

Spending $500 for 200,000 impressions gives a CPM of 500 ÷ 200,000 × 1,000 = $2.50.

CPM vs CPC

CPM charges for views, while CPC (cost per click) charges only when someone clicks. To compare, CPC = CPM ÷ (click-through rate × 1,000).

Frequently asked questions

What is a good CPM?

It varies widely by platform, audience and season, from under $1 to over $30.

How do I calculate CPM from CPC?

Multiply CPC by the click-through rate and by 1,000. A $0.50 CPC at a 1% CTR equals a $5 CPM.

What counts as an impression?

Each time an ad is served or displayed, depending on the platform’s definition.

Is CPM the same as RPM?

No. RPM is revenue per thousand impressions, used by publishers.

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