Freelance Hourly Rate Calculator
Quick answer: Rate = (take-home goal + expenses) ÷ billable hours. For $70,000 take-home, $8,000 expenses, 25 billable hours a week and 4 weeks off, it is about $65 an hour.
Formula
Rate = (take-home goal + expenses) ÷ (billable hours per week × working weeks).
Example
For $70,000 take-home, $8,000 expenses, 25 billable hours and 4 weeks off, the base rate is $65 per hour. Add a buffer for self-employment tax.
Taxes
US freelancers pay self-employment tax of about 15.3% on net earnings, so add a tax buffer to your goal.
Frequently asked questions
How do I set a freelance hourly rate?
Start from your income goal, add expenses and taxes, then divide by billable hours.
Why only 25 billable hours?
Admin, sales and unpaid work take up time, so most freelancers bill 20 to 30 hours a week.
Does this include taxes?
No. Add a buffer to your income goal for self-employment and income tax.
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Estimates only, based on US seller rates. Fee rates change, so verify them on the official pricing page. Rates last verified October 5, 2026 against each platform's published fees and independent fee guides. How we verify rates.