Free Freelance Hourly Rate Calculator

September 29, 2026 · 1 min read · By the DollarWise team

Most freelancers set their rate by guessing — then discover they’re earning less than their old salary. This free calculator works backward from the income you actually want, adding taxes, expenses, and time off, so your rate covers the real cost of being your own boss.

Target annual take-home income Billable hours per week Weeks worked per year (vacation excluded) Annual business expenses (tools, insurance, software…) Estimated tax rate (%) — includes self-employment/income tax

Why freelancers undercharge

A salary includes paid leave, employer taxes, and benefits — freelancing doesn’t. If your old job paid $30/hour, your freelance rate needs to be far higher to match the same take-home. Run the numbers before you quote.