nokfiFreelance hourly rate calculator
Many freelancers set their rate by looking at competitors and end up working for less than their business costs. This calculator starts from your costs and the income you want.
Updated October 2026
Hourly rate
Only the ones you charge the client for, without admin or travel. Usually 60-70 % of the hours you work.
Hourly rate (without VAT)
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Enter how many hours you bill per month.
Calculated in your browser: nothing is sent or stored. Estimate for the general regime (mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands). It does not replace professional advice.
The formula
Hourly rate = (fixed costs + the income you want + autónomo quota) ÷ hours you bill per month. Then add a margin for the unexpected, slow months and holidays.
Example
You have €400 of fixed costs, want to earn €2,000 gross and pay a €300 quota: you need €2,700 a month. If you bill 100 hours, your cost is €27 an hour; with a 10 % margin, €29.70. With 21 % VAT, the client pays €35.94.
Count only billable hours
Quotes, emails, invoicing, travel and training are work too, but you cannot bill them. Billable hours are usually 60-70 % of the hours you work: about 100-110 out of 160 a month.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I charge per hour as a freelancer?
Enough to cover your costs, your quota and the income you want, spread over the hours you actually bill. Then compare it with the market.
Does the hourly rate include VAT?
No, the result is without VAT. If you charge VAT, add 21 % (or your rate) on the invoice.
Should I include income tax?
The income you want is gross: your income tax comes out of it. If you want a net figure, raise it to cover the tax.