Freelance Project Quote Calculator
Turn estimated hours into a defensible fixed price.
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- Quote this project at
- $4,870.59
- Buffered hours
- 48 h
- Effective hourly rate
- $121.76
- Deposit (40%)
- $1,948.24
Working
- 148 h x $75.00 x 1.15 / 0.85 = $4,870.59
Quick answer
A fixed price should cover estimated hours at your target rate, plus a risk buffer, overhead and profit margin.
quote = hours x (1+buffer) x rate x (1+overhead) / (1-margin)
How to use the Freelance Project Quote Calculator
- 1Estimate hours honestly, then let the buffer absorb scope creep.
- 2Set the hourly rate you want to actually earn.
- 3Quote the total as a fixed price with a deposit upfront.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Estimated hours40 h
- Target hourly rate75 $
- Scope buffer20 %
- Overhead15 %
- Profit margin15 %
Results
- Quote this project at$4,870.59
- Buffered hours48 h
- Effective hourly rate$121.76
- Deposit (40%)$1,948.24
- 48 h x $75.00 x 1.15 / 0.85 = $4,870.59
Frequently asked questions
How big should the buffer be?
20% for familiar work, 40%+ for new domains or vague briefs.
Should I show my hourly rate?
Usually no — clients buy outcomes, and a fixed price shifts efficiency gains to you.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.