Smart calculators for independent professionals
Figure out what to charge as a freelance graphic designer based on your income goals and real-world expenses.
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Pricing design work is one of the hardest parts of freelancing. Charge too little and you burn out; charge too much and you lose bids. This calculator is prefilled with typical numbers for a mid-level freelance graphic designer — adjust to match your situation and see exactly what you need to charge.
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In the US, freelance graphic designers typically charge $50–$150/hour depending on experience, specialization, and market. Logo and brand identity specialists often charge at the higher end, while general design work trends lower.
Many designers prefer project-based pricing because it rewards efficiency. However, knowing your hourly rate is still essential — it's the foundation for estimating project quotes. Use this calculator to find your floor, then price projects above it.
Common expenses include Adobe Creative Cloud ($55/mo), Figma ($12/mo), stock assets, fonts, a capable computer (amortized), portfolio website hosting, and professional liability insurance. These add up to $3,000–$8,000/year.
Realistically, 25–30 billable hours per week. The rest goes to client communication, revisions, prospecting, bookkeeping, and marketing. New freelancers often overestimate billable time — be conservative.
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Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for planning purposes only. Your actual tax obligations and expenses depend on your jurisdiction, deductions, and individual circumstances. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.