PPC vs SEO Cost Comparison
Compare quick channel spending, then build an optional monthly scenario using your own traffic, conversion, margin and cost assumptions. Detailed results can show payback or a crossover only when your scenario reaches one.
Compare the two channels
Build a monthly acquisition scenario
This detailed scenario is independent of the quick estimate above. All defaults are editable examples. Additional organic visits follow a linear ramp, then stay at target. Both channels use the same customer value, close rate and contribution margin. Costs include only the amounts entered here.
Results stay on your device. Copy, download or print includes your inputs and the stated assumptions. Enquiries do not automatically attach your inputs.
Example, assumptions and model details
With the defaults ($4,000 a month of media, $6 CPC and 4% conversion), paid search models about 667 clicks and 27 enquiries a month, or 320 enquiries over 12 months at $150 each, before lead-to-customer conversion.
Paid results depend on entered CPC and conversion. Organic growth depends on the stated traffic ramp. Neither model establishes causation or guarantees a crossover.
- Evidence basis
- Elev8d's planning assumptions, or the numbers you enter. Not an independent benchmark.
- Population and market
- Built for Australian businesses. Not based on a survey of the market.
- Review owner
- Elev8d
- Model version
- 2026-09-20
How to use this tool
Enter paid media budget and observed CPC/conversion from a comparable period.
Enter SEO costs and organic traffic assumptions independently. Include fees and content costs for a fair comparison.
Read monthly and cumulative results with the assumptions. Neither channel is guaranteed to outperform the other.
How the comparison works
Paid-search spend is monthly budget multiplied by duration. Estimated leads are spend divided by your assumed CPC, multiplied by your conversion rate. These are planning inputs, not verified auction results or guaranteed customers.
The quick comparison shows SEO spending only. The optional monthly scenario below it models incremental visits, customers and contribution for both channels using entered assumptions. It reports a crossing only if cumulative SEO contribution after marketing catches up from below paid search. Neither outcome nor profitability is guaranteed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers about what this tool measures, the assumptions behind it, and what to do with the result.
Compare paid and organic acquisition scenarios with transparent costs and outcomes. A crossover is possible only when the entered model produces one.
With the defaults ($4,000 a month of media, $6 CPC and 4% conversion), paid search models about 667 clicks and 27 enquiries a month, or 320 enquiries over 12 months at $150 each, before lead-to-customer conversion.
Paid results depend on entered CPC and conversion. Organic growth depends on the stated traffic ramp. Neither model establishes causation or guarantees a crossover.
Want the Right Mix for Your Business?
The calculator compares the maths. A free audit looks at your market, margins and current setup and tells you honestly where the next dollar should go: ads, SEO or both.