CPV (Cost Per View).
Learn what CPV (Cost Per View) means in modern search and SEO.
An advertising pricing metric measuring the average cost an advertiser pays each time a user views a video ad.
Cost Per View (CPV) is the pricing model used for video advertising on platforms like YouTube (via Google Ads TrueView campaigns). A 'view' is counted when a user watches a defined portion of a video—typically 30 seconds, or the full video if shorter, or when the user engages with the ad (clicks a CTA or companion banner).
CPV vs CPM for Video
CPM (Cost Per Mille) charges per 1,000 impressions regardless of whether users watch. CPV charges only when users actively watch a meaningful portion of the video. CPV is more efficient for advertisers focused on video completion and brand recall; CPM is appropriate for maximising reach and impressions across a large audience.
Benchmarking CPV
Average YouTube CPV varies by industry, audience targeting, and creative quality—typically ranging from £0.01 to £0.30 per view. Highly targeted audiences (narrow interest, in-market, or remarketing) command higher CPVs but deliver better-qualified viewers. View-through rate (VTR)—the percentage of impressions that become views—is the companion efficiency metric.
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