Freelance rate calculator
Use this free freelance hourly rate calculator to quickly estimate what you should be charging to cover your expenses and stay profitable.
Whether you're just starting freelance work or thinking about raising your rates — this tool helps you find the right number.
Set Your Freelance Rate Based on Income Goals
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Result:
Your target annual income: $75 000
Your total monthly expenses: $3000
Minimum hourly rate: $35
Compare Your Rate to the Market
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Result:
Freelancers in your profession and region typically charge:
$45/hour (Intermediate, Graphic Designer, United States)
$45/hour (Intermediate, Graphic Designer, United States)
How it works
Set Your Freelance Rate Based on Income Goals
This calculator helps you figure out your personal minimum hourly rate — the rate you need to charge to cover your expenses, hit your income goals, and work sustainably.
Use this if:
- You want to plan your freelance income
- You’re not sure what to charge yet
- You want a number based on your real life — not just market averages
Perfect for freelancers who like to plan ahead and build a stable income.
Example:
If you want to earn $60,000/year, have $1,000/month in expenses, and plan to work 20 hours/week, your minimum hourly rate is: $38/hour
Why?
Here’s the breakdown:
- Monthly expenses: $1,000
- Annual expenses: $1,000 × 12 = $12,000
- Add your income goal: $60,000 + $12,000 = $72,000 total needed per year
- Working hours per year: 20 × 52 = 1,040 hours
- $72,000 ÷ 1,040 hours = $69/hour
Now, if you don’t include your $60k income goal — just your costs — your bare minimum rate would be:💲**$12,000 ÷ 1,040 = $11.50/hour**But that only helps you survive — not grow.
Compare Your Rate to the Market
This one helps you see what other freelancers like you are charging, based on your profession,
experience level, and location.
Use this if:
- You’re already charging something but want to compare
- You want to know if your rate is too low (or too high)
- You want to stay competitive in your field
Perfect for freelancers who want to stay market-smart and benchmark their pricing.
Example:
Let’s say you’re a Graphic Designer with 3 years of experience, based in Germany.
Based on market data, freelancers like you typically charge: €45/hour
If your current rate is €30/hour, you’re below the market average — which might mean you’re undervaluing your work.
If you charge €55/hour, you’re above average, which is totally fine — especially if you offer specialized skills, fast turnaround, or extra reliability.
How it works
Before you pick a number out of thin air — stop.
Your hourly rate isn’t just what you want to earn. It’s what you need to earn to stay in the game, stay sane, and build something sustainable. Because as a freelancer, you’re not just doing the work — you’re running
a business.
Here’s why taking your rate seriously matters more than you might think:
It protects
your long-term sustainability
Charging too little may seem competitive, but it often leads to burnout. You’ll struggle to cover basic needs, let alone save, invest, or take time off. A realistic rate ensures you can sustain your freelance career over time.
It reflects your
value — not just your time
Clients don’t just pay for the minutes you spend. They pay for your experience, creativity, reliability, and problem-solving. Your rate should reflect the full package — not just hours on a clock.
It helps you plan your business — not just survive
A clear rate allows you
to set financial goals, plan for quiet months, take time off without guilt, and reinvest in yourself — whether it's better tools, new skills, or hiring help.
It gives you negotiation power
When you know how
your rate is built, you don’t flinch in pricing conversations. You’re not picking a number out
of thin air — you’re backing it up with logic and clarity.
It separates professionals
from hobbyists
Professionals know their worth. A solid rate communicates to clients that you’re serious, organized, and running a real business — not just doing side gigs.
It accounts for unpaid time
Freelancers don’t get paid for emails, meetings, proposals, revisions, or finding clients — but those hours exist. A proper rate helps cover that invisible work.
It covers more than just work hours
Your rate needs to absorb costs like sick days, vacations, taxes, software, insurance, and education. You’re your own employer now — and that means building in benefits.
It builds confidence and boundaries
When your rate reflects your true needs and value, you’re less likely to say yes to low-paying or draining projects. You protect your energy — and your worth.
That’s why it’s so important to price smart — not just low.
FAQs
Can I use this for project pricing?
Yes! Just multiply your hourly rate by the number of hours a project takes.
How do I know what to include in my expenses?
Add everything that keeps your life and business running: rent, software, gear, food, insurance, internet — even savings and taxes.
Is it free?
100% free. No sign-up, no limits.
What are billable hours?
Time spent on actual paid client work — not admin or marketing.
How often should I update my rate?
We recommend reviewing it at least once a year — or anytime your income goals or expenses change.
What if the number feels too high?
It’s probably not. Clients are paying for your time, skills, and reliability — not just tasks.
How can I raise my freelance rate over time?
Start by gradually increasing your prices with new clients and offering more value (specialization, faster delivery, better communication). You don’t have to double your rate overnight — consistency and confidence matter more.
Read the full guide: How to price your freelance work
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