Marketing Economics glossary

What Is LTV-to-CAC Ratio?

Definition

The LTV-to-CAC ratio compares estimated customer lifetime value with the cost required to acquire a new customer.

How LTV-to-CAC Ratio Works

Divide a consistently defined LTV by CAC. If contribution-based LTV is $900 and fully loaded CAC is $300, the ratio is 3:1.

A Simple Example

Two channels with the same first-order CPA can have different LTV-to-CAC ratios if one brings customers who repeat more often.

Why LTV-to-CAC Ratio Matters

The ratio helps evaluate whether acquisition spending creates enough long-term economic value.

Common Misreading

Do not divide revenue LTV by contribution-based CAC or mix time horizons. The ratio is only meaningful when both inputs use compatible definitions.