Most side hustlers price by feeling. The result is profitable hours that look like profit but actually pay less than minimum wage.
Google this topic and you will get a hundred answers, half of them wrong. Here is the version that holds up. Most side hustlers price by feeling. The result is profitable hours that look like profit but actually pay less than minimum wage.
Target take-home ÷ billable hours. Then add tax (25%), overhead (10–15%) and unpaid hours (admin, marketing, learning).
After self-employment tax (15.3% US), income tax (20%+) and unpaid admin time, $50/hr nets closer to $25–30 in your pocket.
Specific niche, fast turnaround, written guarantees, case studies. Each adds 20–50% you can charge.
When you say 'yes' to more than half of inquiries, you are underpriced. Bump 15–20%, see what happens.
Should I undercut to win the first client? No. Low first-clients become low-quality referrals. Set the floor early.
How often should I raise rates? Every 6–12 months while still scaling. After that, with each major skill/portfolio upgrade.
Bookmark the calculator linked above — you will need it more often than you think.