CalcBase

Markup Calculator

Determine your markup percentage based on cost and selling price, or set a target markup to find the right price. Markup is calculated on cost and is critical for retail and wholesale pricing.

Formula

Markup % = ((Selling Price − Cost) ÷ Cost) × 100
Selling Price = Cost × (1 + Markup % ÷ 100)

Markup measures how much you increase the cost to arrive at your selling price. It is always calculated relative to cost, unlike margin which is relative to revenue.

Worked Examples

Markup on a $60 item sold for $100

A retailer buying a product for $60 and selling it for $100.

Cost
$60
Selling price
$100

Profit = $40. Markup = 66.67%.

Finding selling price with 50% markup

A wholesaler with a $80 cost wanting to apply a 50% markup.

Cost
$80
Target markup
50%

Selling price = $120. Profit = $40.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is markup different from margin?

Markup is calculated on cost: (Price − Cost) ÷ Cost. Margin is calculated on revenue: (Price − Cost) ÷ Price. The same transaction yields different percentages for each.

What is a standard markup in retail?

Keystone pricing uses a 100% markup (doubling the cost). In practice, markups range from 20% to 100%+ depending on the industry, product type, and competitive landscape.

Can markup exceed 100%?

Yes. A 200% markup means the selling price is 3× the cost. Luxury goods and specialty items commonly carry markups well over 100%.

What is keystone markup?

Keystone markup (also called keystone pricing) is a 100% markup, which doubles the cost to set the selling price. If an item costs $50, the keystone selling price is $100. This is a common baseline in retail, though actual markups vary widely by product category.

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All calculations are for informational purposes only. They should not replace professional financial, tax, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for decisions affecting your finances or business.