Free Hourly Rate Calculator

Stop guessing your rate. Enter the annual income you want, how many hours you can actually bill each week, and get the hourly rate that hits your target — the math every freelancer should do once a year.

Illustrative photo: focused freelancer working on laptop
Billable hours / year
1,200
Your hourly rate
$66.67

Add 20–30% on top for taxes, insurance, and non-billable time.

How to use

  1. Enter your desired annual income (after expenses).
  2. Enter realistic billable hours per week (not total working hours).
  3. Use the result as your floor — then add margin for taxes and downtime.

Frequently asked questions

Why billable hours and not working hours?

Freelancers typically bill only 50–70% of working hours — the rest goes to admin, marketing, and finding clients.

Should I add anything on top of the calculated rate?

Yes — add 20–30% for income tax, insurance, retirement, and unpaid time off. Employees get these covered; you don't.

How often should I recalculate my rate?

At least yearly, and every time your costs, skills, or demand change significantly.

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