EconLearn
AP MicroeconomicsProduction & Costs

Average Variable Cost

Average Variable Cost is the variable cost per unit of output produced.

It is calculated by dividing total variable cost by quantity of output. Average variable cost typically declines at first due to increasing efficiency, then rises due to diminishing marginal returns.

Formula / Example

AVC = VC / Q

Related terms

AP® is a trademark registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, EconLearn.