Freelance Rate Calculator
Determine your ideal hourly rate to ensure you're profitable and not undercharging.
Your Hourly Rate Is Your Business's Foundation
Your hourly rate is the most critical number for your freelance business. If it's too low, you're on a path to burnout and financial stress. If it's too high, you might struggle to find clients. This calculator helps you stop guessing and find a data-driven hourly rate by working backward from your income goals and your real business costs.
The 3 Factors That Determine Your Minimum Rate
1. Your Salary Goal
This isn't just a dream number. It's the annual income you need to cover your personal living expenses, savings, and discretionary spending. This is the 'take-home' pay you are working towards.
2. Your Business Expenses
You are a business, not an employee. You must account for all your costs: software, hardware, marketing, insurance, taxes, and professional development. These costs must be covered by your rate.
3. Your *Billable* Hours
This is the most common mistake freelancers make. You cannot bill for 40 hours a week, 52 weeks a year. You must account for the time you spend on non-billable (but essential) work like admin, sales, and marketing, plus sick days and vacations. A realistic estimate is crucial for a sustainable rate.