Markup Calculator

Calculate markup percentage, profit margins, and optimal selling prices. Perfect for retail pricing, wholesale calculations, and developing profitable pricing strategies.

Calculate Markup

Understanding Markup vs Margin

What is Markup?

Markup is the percentage added to the cost price to determine the selling price. It's calculated as (Selling Price - Cost) / Cost × 100. For example, if you buy for $50 and sell for $75, your markup is 50% ($25 profit ÷ $50 cost).

Markup vs Profit Margin

While related, markup and margin are different. Markup is based on cost, margin is based on selling price. A 100% markup equals a 50% margin. Retailers typically think in markup, while investors focus on margin. Neither is better - they're just different perspectives on profitability.

Industry Standard Markups

Retail Clothing
100-120% (Keystone+)
Restaurants
200-400% on food
Jewelry
200-500%
Grocery
15-35%

Pricing Strategies

  • Keystone: 100% markup (2x cost) - retail standard
  • Cost-Plus: Fixed markup percentage on all items
  • Value-Based: Price based on perceived value, not cost
  • Competitive: Match or beat competitor pricing
  • Premium: High markup for luxury positioning

Pro Tip: Start with your desired profit margin and work backwards to find the required markup. Remember to factor in all costs including overhead, shipping, returns, and payment processing fees. A seemingly good markup can result in losses if hidden costs aren't considered.

Quick Markup Guide

Low Markup< 20%
Moderate20-50%
Standard50-100%
Premium100%+

Markup vs Margin

25% markup= 20% margin
50% markup= 33.3% margin
100% markup= 50% margin
200% markup= 66.7% margin

Business Tips

  • Factor in all costs: shipping, storage, returns
  • Volume discounts can improve margins
  • Leave room for sales and promotions
  • Know your break-even point