Break-even point: How we calculate
Find the units needed to cover fixed and variable costs.
How we calculate
Break-even units = fixed costs / (price − variable cost per unit). No break-even point exists with non-positive contribution. The required whole-unit count rounds up: 10,000 / (100 − 40) = 166.67, so at least 167 units are needed.
Worked example
These illustrative inputs let you check the method. They are not figures for a real company or automatically current tax rates.
Inputs
- Fixed costs
- 10,000
- Variable cost per unit
- 40
- Selling price
- 100
Results
- Units to sell
- 167
- Contribution per unit
- 60
- Revenue at required whole units
- 16,700
Change assumptions in the calculator and compare outcomes. Money follows your input unit; figures from different periods need adjustment before comparison.