Freelance Rate Calculator

Why Your Rate Must Be Higher Than You Think

As a freelancer, you pay both the employer and employee portions of payroll taxes (about 15% in the US on top of income tax). You also have no paid vacation, sick days, or benefits. A $60,000 salary at a full-time job costs far more than $60,000 when you add benefits — your freelance rate needs to account for all of that.

Billable vs. Non-Billable Time

Most freelancers are only billable 50–60% of their working hours. The rest goes to admin, marketing, networking, invoicing, and professional development. Setting 25 billable hours on a 40-hour work week is a realistic starting point.

Raising Your Rate

Specialize in a niche, develop a strong portfolio, and document results for clients. Specialists consistently earn 2–3× more than generalists. Raise your rate with new clients immediately — raise it with existing clients by 10–15% annually with 30 days' notice.