1
general::
Succeed, make a profit. For example, By the end of the year we expect to come out ahead. Also see AHEAD OF THE GAME.
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): come out ahead
to end up with a profit, benefit, or advantage. • It was a tricky deal, and no one came out ahead of anyone else. • I never come out ahead after paying my bills.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs