Project Rate Calculator
Estimate a flat project fee based on your hourly rate and estimated hours.
Hourly vs. Project Pricing: Which Pays More?
Charging by the hour is safe, but it punishes you for being efficient. Project-based pricing rewards you for delivering value quickly. However, quoting a fixed price is risky—if you underestimate, you lose money. This calculator is the bridge. It helps you convert your time estimate into a profitable project fee that includes a critical "contingency buffer" to protect you from scope creep and unexpected problems.
The #1 Mistake Freelancers Make When Quoting Projects
The biggest mistake is forgetting to add a contingency buffer. No project goes exactly as planned. Clients ask for "just one more thing," technical issues arise, and tasks take longer than expected. A contingency buffer is your safety net. Here's how to think about it:
How much contingency should I add?
A good starting point is 15-20%. For a simple, well-defined project with a client you trust, 10-15% might be enough. For a complex project with vague requirements, a buffer of 25-30% or even higher is not unreasonable. It's a measure of risk.
How do I present this to the client?
You present the "Total Quoted Price" as the final number. You typically don't need to show the client your internal calculation of base price + contingency. The total price is the value you are providing; the buffer is for your own risk management.