Break-even calculator
- Enter fixed costs, variable cost per unit, and price per unit.
- Read break-even units and break-even revenue; no solution if price ≤ variable cost.
Formula
Contribution = price − variable cost per unit. Break-even units = fixed costs ÷ contribution. Example: fixed 10,000, price 25, variable 10 → 667 units.
Pricing first
Set price with the profit margin or markup calculator. Linear unit economics only—no volume discounts modeled.
Frequently asked questions
What are break-even units?
Units needed so total contribution equals fixed costs—contribution per unit is price minus variable cost.
Why no break-even point?
If price ≤ variable cost per unit, each sale does not help cover fixed costs—raise price or cut variable cost.
What are fixed costs?
Rent, salaried overhead, equipment—costs that do not scale linearly with each unit. Variable costs scale with production.
Link to margin tools?
Set price and cost with the margin or markup calculators, then find volume here.
Can I share this scenario with someone?
Yes. Copy link below the form keeps your current inputs so you can share the scenario or save it for later.
Safety margin?
This page gives the break-even volume only—compare your forecast sales manually for margin of safety.
Multiple products?
Single product, single contribution margin. Blended product lines need weighted assumptions or separate runs.