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Unit Price Calculator
Compare up to three products by their price per unit to see which is really the cheapest, whatever the pack size.
How unit pricing works
Unit price = Price ÷ Quantity. For packs, multiply the number of items by the size of each first: a 24-pack of 16.9 oz bottles is 24 × 16.9 = 405.6 oz.
Example: water bottles
A 24-pack of 16.9 oz bottles costs $12.99, which is 3.2 cents per ounce. A 12-pack costs $8.49, or 4.19 cents per ounce. The big pack is about 23% cheaper per ounce; buying two 12-packs instead would cost $3.99 more.
Smart shopping tips
- Look for the small "unit price" line on shelf labels; many states require stores to show it.
- Check the unit price after any discount or coupon. A sale on a small size can beat the bulk price.
- Store brands often cost 20% to 30% less per unit for similar products.
- Bulk only saves money if you use it all. Thrown-away food is the most expensive kind.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate unit price?
Divide the price by the quantity. A 24-pack of 16.9 oz bottles for $12.99 is 405.6 ounces, so 12.99 ÷ 405.6 = 3.2 cents per ounce.
Is the bigger pack always cheaper?
Usually but not always. Sales on smaller sizes, multi-buy deals and store brands can beat the bulk price. It is only a saving if you will use it all before it spoils.
Why do shelf labels show different units?
Some stores show price per ounce on one product and per count or per pound on another. Convert to the same unit before comparing; this calculator does it for you.