Business
Freelancer Day Rate Calculator
Set a day rate from an annual income target and the number of billable days in a year.
The day rate tells you the amount to charge per billable day to reach the annual income target.
Formula
Day rate = annual income target divided by billable days per year.
How it works
Decide what you need to earn in a year, then divide by the days you can realistically bill, not by every working day. Holidays, admin, marketing and gaps between projects all reduce billable days, so an honest day count gives a rate that actually hits the target.
Worked example
For example, $60,000 ÷ 200 = $300 per day.
FAQs
How many billable days are realistic?
Many freelancers bill 180 to 220 days a year after holidays, admin and business development.
Does this include expenses and tax?
Only if your target already includes them. Otherwise set the target as the gross amount you need before tax and costs.
Should I charge this exact rate?
Use it as a floor. Experience, demand and project value can justify charging more.
Estimates only, not financial advice. Check your figures before making a business decision.
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