Get paid right
Hourly vs Project Rate Calculator
Enter the scope and the fixed price on the table. See what you would really earn per hour — and whether the flat fee is worth taking.
Frequently asked questions
What is "effective hourly" and why does it matter?
It is the fixed price divided by the hours the work actually takes. A $3,000 project that eats 60 hours pays $50/h — which might be well below your real rate. Effective hourly is the single most useful number for judging whether a flat fee is worth it.
When is a fixed price better than billing hourly?
Fixed pricing rewards you for being fast and experienced, simplifies the client relationship, and makes your income predictable — but only if the scope is locked. If requirements are fuzzy or the client loves revisions, hourly protects you better.
What are break-even hours?
The number of hours at which the fixed price equals your hourly billing. Finish faster and you beat your rate; go over and every extra hour erodes it. If your honest estimate is already above break-even, the fixed price is too low.
How do I stop scope creep from killing a fixed price?
Write the deliverables down, cap the number of revision rounds, and add a change-order clause so anything new is billed separately. The Client Red Flag Scorecard can help you spot clients likely to push scope before you commit.
These calculators give estimates to help you think — not financial, tax or legal advice. Double-check anything that matters with a professional.