PayPal Rate Calculator

Sending money internationally through PayPal? Don't get caught off guard by hidden fees and poor exchange rates. Our PayPal fee calculator shows you exactly how much you'll pay in fees and what exchange rate you'll get before you hit send. Whether you're paying for goods, sending money to family, or running an online business, knowing the real cost upfront can save you hundreds of dollars.

Why PayPal Fees Can Cost You More Than You Think

Many people don't realize that PayPal makes money in two ways: transaction fees and currency conversion markups. When you send $1,000 from the US to the UK, you might think you're only paying the advertised 2.9% fee. But PayPal also adds a 2.5-4% markup to the exchange rate, which can cost you an extra $25-40 on top of the transaction fee.

Real Example: The Hidden Costs

Sending $1,000 USD to EUR:

PayPal transaction fee: $29 (2.9%)
Exchange rate markup: ~$35 (3.5% hidden fee)
Total cost: $64 instead of just $29

How PayPal Exchange Rates Really Work (And Why They're Expensive)

PayPal doesn't use the "real" exchange rate you see on Google or financial websites. Instead, they use their own rates that include a profit margin. Here's what you need to know:

Mid-Market Rate vs PayPal Rate

The mid-market rate is the "real" exchange rate banks use between themselves. PayPal adds 2.5-4% on top of this rate as their profit.

Rate Updates

PayPal updates their rates multiple times daily, but they're always worse than what you'd get from a bank or currency exchange specialist.

Complete PayPal Fee Breakdown (2024 Updated Rates)

Personal Payments (Friends & Family)

Domestic: Free when funded by bank account or PayPal balance

Credit/Debit Card: 2.9% + fixed fee

International: 5% + fixed fee (plus exchange rate markup)

Business Payments (Goods & Services)

Domestic: 2.9% + $0.30 fixed fee

International: 4.4% + fixed fee

Micropayments: 5% + $0.05 (better for transactions under $12)

Currency Conversion Fees

Standard currencies: 2.5% above mid-market rate

Emerging market currencies: Up to 4% above mid-market rate

Cryptocurrency: Additional fees may apply

How to Calculate PayPal Fees Before You Send Money

Don't get surprised by fees after you've already sent money. Use our calculator to know exactly what you'll pay before you commit to the transaction.

1. Enter Your Amount

Input how much you want to send in your local currency. The calculator works with all major currencies.

2. Choose Countries

Select where you're sending from and to. Different country pairs have different fee structures.

3. Select Payment Type

Choose between personal (friends/family) or business payments. Business payments offer buyer protection but cost more.

4. Pick Funding Source

Bank transfers are usually cheaper than credit cards. PayPal balance is often the most cost-effective option.

7 Ways to Save Money on PayPal International Transfers

1. Use Bank Account Funding

Always fund PayPal payments from your bank account or PayPal balance instead of credit cards to avoid the 2.9% card processing fee.

2. Consider Wise or Remitly

For large transfers, services like Wise often offer better exchange rates and lower fees than PayPal, especially for amounts over $500.

3. Let Your Bank Convert

Some banks offer better exchange rates than PayPal. Check if your bank's international wire transfer is cheaper.

4. Time Your Transfers

Exchange rates fluctuate daily. For large amounts, consider waiting for favorable rate movements.

5. Use Micropayments for Small Amounts

For transactions under $12, PayPal's micropayment option (5% + $0.05) is often cheaper than standard rates.

6. Negotiate Business Rates

High-volume businesses can negotiate better rates with PayPal. Contact their business support for custom pricing.

Common PayPal Fee Questions Answered

Why is PayPal more expensive than my bank?

PayPal prioritizes convenience and speed over cost. They make money from both transaction fees and exchange rate markups, while banks typically only charge one or the other.

Can I avoid PayPal's exchange rate?

Sometimes. If your bank account is in the same currency you're sending, you can avoid conversion fees. Otherwise, PayPal will always apply their rate.

Are PayPal business accounts cheaper?

Not necessarily for fees, but business accounts get access to better customer support and may qualify for volume discounts on high transaction volumes.

What's the cheapest way to send money internationally?

For amounts over $500, dedicated money transfer services like Wise, Remitly, or Western Union often beat PayPal on both fees and exchange rates. For smaller amounts, PayPal's convenience might be worth the extra cost.

Important: This Calculator Provides Estimates Only

PayPal fees and exchange rates change frequently and vary by country, transaction type, and funding source. This calculator uses publicly available fee structures to provide estimates. Always check PayPal's current rates in your account before sending money. Actual costs may differ from our calculations. We are not affiliated with PayPal and this tool is for informational purposes only.