Title: a woman sitting in front of a laptop computer | how to set freelance rates

Learn effective strategies to set and optimise your freelance rates in 2025 using SkillScore’s real-time skill analytics and market insights.

Why Freelance Pricing Matters

Freelancing is booming. Companies across Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific tap into agile, project-based talent. But you can’t trade time for pennies and expect to thrive.

Undercharge?
You risk burnout, poor quality and feeling stuck.
Overcharge?
You risk scaring off clients.

So, how to set freelance rates that reflect your skills, pay your bills and position you as a pro? Enter SkillScore.

Common Pricing Models—and Their Pitfalls

Before diving into data, let’s review typical models:

Hourly Rate
Easy to track. Hard to scale. Non-billable hours sink profits.
Per-Project Flat Fee
Clean deliverable. Risky if scope creeps.
Value-Based Pricing
Focus on results. Demands strong case studies.
Retainers and Packages
Predictable cashflow. Requires trust and proven track record.

Each method works…sometimes. Yet many freelancers wonder how to set freelance rates that balance reward and risk.

How to Set Freelance Rates with Data

The secret? Real-time insights. Here’s how SkillScore’s features guide you:

1. Benchmark with Skill Analytics

What do freelancers in your niche really earn? SkillScore’s Skill Analytics shows trending rates by region and expertise. No more guessing or endless Google searches. You get:

Average hourly, project and retainer rates
Rate ranges for senior-level vs entry-level freelancers
Market demand for specific skills

Armed with this data, you know how to set freelance rates that match or outperform your peers.

2. Pinpoint High-Value Skills via AI-Powered CV Builder

Your CV should highlight what clients will pay top dollar for. SkillScore’s AI-Powered CV Builder scans job boards and flags in-demand skills. Then it optimises your resume to:

Showcase premium services
Emphasise results and outcomes
Communicate your unique value

Now, you can justify higher rates by aligning your pitch with market needs.

3. Match Opportunities with Talent Matchmaker

Ever wonder which projects pay best? The Talent Matchmaker tool connects you to gigs that fit your skillset—and budget expectations. It suggests roles where clients are willing to pay more. That’s another smart way to learn how to set freelance rates by seeing real offers.

4. Plan for Growth with Career Compass

Your goals aren’t static. Want to earn £80k/year? SkillScore’s Career Compass helps you break it down:

Monthly and weekly revenue targets
Expense and tax forecasts
Number of retainer agreements needed

Map out a plan. Then revisit your rates every quarter.

Calculating Your Ideal Rate

Let’s run a quick calculation:

Define Take-Home Goal
Aim for £6,500/month after expenses.
Estimate Non-Billable Hours
Admin, marketing and learning take ~20 % of your time.
Set Billable Hours
Work 160 hours a month × 80 % = 128 hours.
Divide
£6,500 ÷ 128 ≈ £51/hour.

But wait. If peer rates in SkillScore’s analytics show £65–£75/hour for your skillset, you might anchor at £70. That extra buffer covers software, training or slow months.

Putting Your Strategy into Practice

Here’s a simple roadmap for how to set freelance rates that stick:

List Your Services: Define clear packages or bundles.
Consult Analytics: Use Skill Analytics to set baseline rates.
Account for Costs: Factor in taxes, tools and non-billable time.
Test & Adjust: Start new clients at your benchmark. Tweak as you learn.
Communicate Value: Highlight outcomes, not hours.

“Your rates reflect your worth. Show clients why you’re worth every penny.”

When to Revisit Your Rates

You’ve booked out your calendar for months. You’re getting repeat inquiries. Conditions are perfect to raise rates. Use SkillScore’s insights quarterly to ensure:

Your rates exceed inflation
Your skill value grows with experience
You land clients in higher budget brackets

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to set freelance rates is about more than gut feel. It’s about data, clarity and confidence. With SkillScore’s suite—Skill Analytics, AI-Powered CV Builder, Talent Matchmaker and Career Compass—you’ll price your services like a pro. You’ll attract better clients, deliver higher quality and earn what you deserve.

Ready to price your work with confidence?
Discover how SkillScore can transform your freelance career today.

Get started with SkillScore