
Accounting Average Revenue per User (Monthly) Calculator
Calculate your monthly average revenue per user by dividing net monthly revenue by your average active users.
Overview
This monthly ARPU calculator estimates the average net revenue generated per active user. Enter gross revenue, refunds or credits, and your average active-user count for the same month to track monetization performance over time.
How it works
The calculator first subtracts refunds, credits, and rebates from gross monthly revenue to find net monthly revenue. It then divides net monthly revenue by the average number of active users. For example, revenue of 48,000 across 1,000 active users produces an ARPU of 48 per user for the month.
How to use this calculator
- 1Enter gross revenue for the month before refunds or credits.
- 2Add refunds, credits, and rebates issued for that month.
- 3Enter the average number of active users during the month.
- 4Review net monthly revenue and monthly ARPU.
- 5Use the same revenue and user definitions each month when comparing results.
Example Calculation
Gross monthly revenue
$50,000
Refunds, credits, and rebates
$2,000
Average active users
1000
Monthly ARPU
$48.00
Net monthly revenue is 48,000. Dividing this by 1,000 average active users gives a monthly ARPU of 48.00 per user.
Frequently asked questions
What is monthly average revenue per user (ARPU)?
Monthly ARPU is the average net revenue earned from each active user during one month. It is commonly used to monitor monetization and customer value.
How is monthly ARPU calculated?
Monthly ARPU equals net monthly revenue divided by the average number of active users in that month.
Should refunds be included in ARPU?
Refunds, credits, and rebates are commonly deducted from gross revenue so ARPU reflects net revenue. Use a consistent method across reporting periods.
What counts as an active user?
An active user is defined by your business, such as someone who logged in, made a transaction, or used a key feature during the month. Apply the same definition each time.
What is the difference between ARPU and average revenue per paying user?
ARPU uses all active users as the denominator. Average revenue per paying user uses only users who paid, so it will usually be higher.
Can ARPU be used to measure profit?
No. ARPU measures revenue per user, not profit. It does not subtract operating expenses, acquisition costs, taxes, or other business costs.
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Assumptions and warnings
Assumptions
- All revenue and revenue reductions relate to the same monthly reporting period.
- Active users are measured consistently throughout the month.
- The result is an average and may not represent revenue from any individual user or customer.
- The calculation excludes user acquisition costs, operating costs, taxes, and other profitability measures.
Warnings
- This calculator provides an accounting estimate only; ensure your revenue recognition and active-user definitions match your reporting policies.