What this calculator does
Use this calculator when you need a fixed project number instead of an hourly rate. It turns your time estimate into a quote while keeping room for scope friction and margin.
Freelance Rates
Project Rate Calculator
Estimate a project quote from hours, hourly target, overhead, revision buffer, and target margin.
Base labor value$6,600.00
Subtotal before margin$7,150.00
Suggested project rate$10,027.44
Effective hourly rate$167.12
30% deposit example$3,008.23
Formula used
Base labor value = estimated hours x target hourly rate. Buffered subtotal = (base labor value + project overhead) x (1 + revision buffer). Suggested project rate = buffered subtotal / (1 - target margin).
Worked examples
- A 60-hour scope at a $110 target hourly value is not just $6,600 once project overhead, revision buffer, and target margin are included.
- Fixed project pricing works better when you turn scope uncertainty into visible buffer before the quote goes to a client.
Notes
- This calculator is a planning tool for fixed-scope pricing, not a substitute for a proper scope document or contract.
- If revisions are poorly defined, increase the buffer or move the engagement to a retainer or change-order structure.
- Use a quote generator or proposal workflow after you decide the commercial number.