Freelance Hourly vs. Project Pricing Calculator
Should you charge hourly or per project? This calculator compares both approaches using your actual work patterns to show which earns you more money.
Hourly vs. Project Pricing Calculator
Compare your earnings under hourly and project based pricing models
Project pricing earns you $2,000 more per month ($24,000/year). Your effective hourly rate jumps from $100 to $126/hr — a 26% increase.
Project pricing includes a 20% risk premium over hourly (complexity buffer, scope creep protection). The model assumes you finish projects faster than estimated — which experienced freelancers typically do. Adjust actual hours to your real performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which earns more — hourly or project pricing?+
Project pricing almost always earns more because it rewards efficiency. If a project takes you 20 hours at $100/hr ($2,000) but you can deliver it in 15 hours, you've just earned $133/hr. Hourly pricing caps you at $100/hr no matter how fast you work.
When should I use hourly pricing?+
Use hourly for: undefined scope, ongoing work, maintenance retainers, or when the client demands it. Use project pricing for: defined-scope projects, recurring deliverables, and work where you're significantly faster than competitors.
How do I transition from hourly to project pricing?+
Start by tracking your hours on projects for 2-3 months. Calculate your average hours per project type. Set project rates at 1.3-1.5x your hourly estimate (for risk and profit). Present it as "starting at $X" and refine based on scope.
Which earns more — hourly or project pricing?
Project pricing almost always earns more because it rewards efficiency. If a project takes you 20 hours at $100/hr ($2,000) but you can deliver it in 15 hours, you've just earned $133/hr. Hourly pricing caps you at $100/hr no matter how fast you work.