Freelance Rate Calculator
Determine your ideal hourly rate to ensure you're profitable and not undercharging.
Are You Charging What You're Worth as a Designer?
As a freelance designer, you're not just selling your time—you're selling your creativity, expertise, and problem-solving skills. Yet many designers undercharge, forgetting to factor in the cost of software (Adobe CC, Figma), hardware, non-billable hours spent on proposals, and taxes. This calculator helps you determine a data-driven hourly rate to ensure your creative business is profitable and sustainable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Freelance Designers
Q: Should I charge by the hour or by the project?
A: Many experienced designers prefer project-based (or value-based) pricing because it rewards efficiency and focuses on the value delivered, not just the hours worked. However, you should *always* calculate your project fee based on an estimated number of hours multiplied by your target hourly rate from this calculator. Then, add a 15-25% buffer for revisions and unexpected complexities.
Q: What business expenses should I include as a designer?
A: Don't forget to include the cost of all your tools. This includes software subscriptions (Adobe Creative Cloud, Figma, etc.), hardware (MacBook, monitors), premium fonts, stock photo licenses, web hosting for your portfolio, marketing costs, and a portion of your home office expenses.
Q: My rate seems high. Will clients pay this?
A: Clients are paying for a professional service that solves a business problem. A higher rate signals confidence and expertise. If your portfolio and communication skills demonstrate high value, clients will pay for it. A low rate often attracts difficult clients with unrealistic expectations.