This paper presents a method for calculating the cost of laser cutting in the context of tool path optimization for a CNC laser cutting machine ByStar3015. The cost of laser cutting is influenced by energy consumption, auxiliary and laser gas usage, and consumables. Equipment depreciation and labor costs are not considered. The paper calculates the cost of laser cutting for stainless steel, aluminum and its alloys, and carbon steel. It also provides an example of calculating the cost of laser cutting for a real parts nesting using standard and special cutting techniques. A formula is given for calculating the additional cut length when transitioning between contours using special cutting techniques such as "chained" cutting and "shaky" cutting. The study highlights the importance of optimizing the tool path to reduce costs, and it shows that special cutting techniques can reduce the number of tool path points, thereby lowering the overall cost. The results demonstrate that using special cutting techniques can reduce the cost of laser cutting by 12-13%. The paper also discusses the impact of the complexity of the parts on the cost of laser cutting and provides formulas for calculating the cost based on the complexity of the contours. The study concludes that optimizing the tool path is essential for reducing the cost of laser cutting and improving the efficiency of the process. The research was conducted at the Ural Optical and Mechanical Plant.This paper presents a method for calculating the cost of laser cutting in the context of tool path optimization for a CNC laser cutting machine ByStar3015. The cost of laser cutting is influenced by energy consumption, auxiliary and laser gas usage, and consumables. Equipment depreciation and labor costs are not considered. The paper calculates the cost of laser cutting for stainless steel, aluminum and its alloys, and carbon steel. It also provides an example of calculating the cost of laser cutting for a real parts nesting using standard and special cutting techniques. A formula is given for calculating the additional cut length when transitioning between contours using special cutting techniques such as "chained" cutting and "shaky" cutting. The study highlights the importance of optimizing the tool path to reduce costs, and it shows that special cutting techniques can reduce the number of tool path points, thereby lowering the overall cost. The results demonstrate that using special cutting techniques can reduce the cost of laser cutting by 12-13%. The paper also discusses the impact of the complexity of the parts on the cost of laser cutting and provides formulas for calculating the cost based on the complexity of the contours. The study concludes that optimizing the tool path is essential for reducing the cost of laser cutting and improving the efficiency of the process. The research was conducted at the Ural Optical and Mechanical Plant.