Freelance Hourly Rate Calculator

Work out the hourly rate you need to hit your income goal.

Last updated: 13 Aug 2026

Quick answer

Required hourly rate = target annual income ÷ (billable weeks × hours per week). For example, ₹12,00,000 over 48 weeks at 25 billable hours/week is ₹1,000/hour. Enter your target and hours above.

Find the hourly rate you need as a freelancer: rate = target annual income ÷ (billable weeks × hours per week). Remember only some hours are billable.

How to set your freelance hourly rate

  1. 1 Enter your target annual income.
  2. 2 Enter your billable weeks per year and billable hours per week.
  3. 3 We show the hourly rate you need.

Frequently asked questions

How do I set my freelance rate?
Divide your income goal by your realistic billable hours in a year — not total hours, since admin and sales are unbilled.
Why use billable hours?
Freelancers spend time on non-billable work, so basing the rate on billable hours ensures you hit your goal.
Should I add expenses?
Yes — add business costs and taxes to your target income before dividing for a sustainable rate.

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