Start from your numbers, not the competition
Add up the monthly income you need plus your costs, divide by the billable hours you can realistically teach, and you have a minimum rate. Only then compare to the market. Our rate calculator does this maths for you.
Then check the local market
Search marketplaces and local groups for your subject, level, and area. You are looking for the range, not a single number — aim to sit comfortably inside it, not at the bottom.
Charge more when it is worth more
Differentiate your rate where the value is higher:
- •Exam prep (high stakes, deadline-driven).
- •University or professional level.
- •Last-minute or intensive scheduling.
- •Travel to the student in person.
Use packages, not just per-lesson billing
Selling blocks of 5–10 lessons improves cash flow and commitment, and reduces no-shows. Track the balance so you always know how many lessons remain.
How to raise your rate without losing students
Give existing students notice (4–6 weeks), apply increases at a natural break such as a new term or year, and raise for new students first. A 5–10% annual increase is usually accepted when communicated early.