YouTube RPM vs CPM: What Is the Difference?

RPM and CPM are commonly confused, but they answer different questions.

What is RPM?

RPM is a creator-side revenue metric used to understand revenue per 1,000 views under the relevant revenue model.

CPM is an advertising pricing metric. It is not the same as the amount a creator receives per 1,000 total views.

For a simple creator revenue estimate, RPM is generally more directly useful. Use your own Analytics data when available.

Is higher CPM always higher earnings?

Not necessarily. CPM and creator revenue are different metrics.

Where can I find RPM?

Use the relevant revenue metrics in YouTube Analytics for your channel and date range.