Metrics · Finance · Monetization · Quarterly · ratio · Updated 2026-07-21

What is LTV:CAC Ratio?

Short answer: The ratio comparing customer lifetime value to the cost of acquiring that customer.

Definition

The ratio comparing customer lifetime value to the cost of acquiring that customer.

Formula

LTV / CAC

How to measure

Divide the calculated LTV for a customer segment by the CAC for that same segment and period.

Why track it

A ratio below roughly 3:1 signals acquisition spend may be too aggressive relative to the value each customer generates.

Example

A company with $900 LTV and $300 CAC reports a 3:1 LTV:CAC ratio.

FAQ

What is LTV:CAC Ratio?
The ratio comparing customer lifetime value to the cost of acquiring that customer.
How do you calculate LTV:CAC Ratio?
LTV / CAC
Why track LTV:CAC Ratio?
A ratio below roughly 3:1 signals acquisition spend may be too aggressive relative to the value each customer generates.