Why is the rate so high?

Freelancers replace ~30% of a salaried package in benefits, taxes, and unbilled time. A 1:1 hourly conversion of salary always undershoots.

How many billable hours are realistic?

Most successful freelancers bill 20–30 hours per week. The rest goes to sales, admin, and learning.

Should I include retirement?

Yes — count any employer 401k/pension match in benefits, since you'll need to fund retirement yourself.

Freelance vs Job

What hourly rate do you need to charge as a freelancer to match a salaried offer?

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Target salaryBenefits value / yearHealth, retirement match, PTO, equity, etc.Employer payroll tax (%)Employer-side taxes you'll now cover.Business expenses / yearSoftware, accounting, equipment, insurance.Billable hours / weekRealistic — usually 20–30 of 40.Weeks off / yearVacation + holidays + sick days.

Hourly rate to match

$83.91/hr

Charge at least $83.91/hour to earn the same as a $75,000 job.

Day rate (8h)

$671

Annual gross needed

$96,500

Billable hours / year

1150 h

Working weeks

Total comp target

$90,500

Results are estimates for informational purposes only. Not financial advice.

How to use this calculator

1Enter the salary you'd earn at a comparable job.
2Add the value of benefits you'd lose by going freelance.
3Estimate business expenses and how many billable hours you can sustain.
4Use the suggested hourly rate as your minimum bid.

Results are estimates for informational purposes only.

Freelance vs Job

How to use this calculator

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Freelance vs Job

How to use this calculator

FAQ

Why is the rate so high?

How many billable hours are realistic?

Should I include retirement?

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