Tools / Freelance rate

Freelance rate calculator

Start from the monthly income you need, then price for unpaid time and overhead — not just billable hours.

Freelance rate calculator

Interactive
Suggested hourly rate
$81/hr
  • Billable weeks48 wks
  • Yearly goal$72,000
  • Before buffer$60/hr
  • Buffer amount$21/hr

Estimates only — not tax advice. Updated Sep 2026.

How this calculator works

Most freelancers undercharge because they divide a salary goal by 40 hours. Real businesses lose weeks to vacation, admin, sales, and sick days. HourQuote assumes those gaps up front, then adds a buffer for taxes and overhead.

Use the result as a floor, not a ceiling. Niche expertise, rush work, and scarce skills can sit higher.