An analytical equation to estimate the Rankine power cycle efficiency at maximum power for the given mass flow rates of heating and cooling fluids is derived. The accuracy of the result is shown by comparing the analytical values with those calculated one using detailed thermodynamic data. The results indicate that the thermal efficiency at maximum power depends primarily on the initial temperatures of the heating and cooling fluids, and it also depends on the pinch-temperature differences between the working fluid and the heating and cooling fluids. The efficiency at maximum power provides a measure of the power available in a practical Rankine heat engine.