A favorable cost variance occurs when the actual cost is less than the standard cost.

Cost Variance

The difference between the expected (budgeted) cost of an activity and the actual cost incurred, used in budgeting and financial reporting to monitor performance.

Standard Cost

A predetermined cost of manufacturing, projecting what each product should cost under normal conditions.

Actual Cost

Actual cost is the true amount of money spent on producing a product, completing a project, or conducting an activity, including all direct and indirect expenses.