Solo Biz Soft Editorial Team The first question every new freelancer asks is how much to charge. The honest answer is that market rates vary widely by country, skill, niche and client, so a single number from the internet is rarely right for you. What you can do is choose a pricing model that fits your work and set a floor from your own costs. This guide shows how.
Step 1: find your minimum rate
Work out what you need to earn after tax, costs and unpaid time. The freelance hourly rate calculator does the calculation. Anything below that number loses you money.
Step 2: choose a pricing model for your service
| Service | Common pricing models |
|---|---|
| Writing | Per word, per article or per project; retainers for regular content |
| Graphic design | Per project or package; hourly for revisions and small jobs |
| Web design and development | Per project or milestone; hourly for maintenance; monthly care plans |
| Social media management | Monthly retainer based on the number of platforms and posts |
| Bookkeeping | Monthly fee based on volume and complexity |
| Photography and video | Per shoot, per day or per finished product |
| Editing and proofreading | Per word, per page or per hour |
| Virtual assistance | Hourly or monthly hours package |
Step 3: check your market
- Ask other freelancers in your field what they charge, in communities and groups.
- Look at published rate guides from professional bodies in your country.
- Review what clients pay for similar work on marketplaces, remembering that those prices are often lower than direct clients pay.
Step 4: turn it into a quote
Estimate the hours, add a buffer, and add any costs. The project price calculator turns your rate and hours into a fixed price. See how to price freelance projects for the full method.
Signs you are charging too little
- Almost every client says yes straight away.
- You are always busy but never have money left.
- Your effective hourly rate is lower than you would accept in a job. Check it with the billable hours calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good hourly rate for a beginner?
It depends on your country, field and skills. Start from your minimum rate and adjust as you learn what clients will pay.
Should I charge per hour or per project?
Per project suits defined work. Hourly suits unclear or changing work. Many freelancers use both.
Can I charge different clients different rates?
Yes. Rates can vary with the client, the scope and the urgency, but keep your minimum.
Related reading: How to Price Freelance Projects · 10 Freelance Pricing Mistakes
Market rates change and differ by country. Use this article as a method, not as a rate card.