Price every job so the work actually pays you.

The direct answer

A profitable price equals your labor cost plus materials plus overhead, divided by (1 minus your margin). If your costs are $200 and you want a 30% margin, your price is $200 divided by 0.70, about $286.

Why most owners undercharge

They add a markup to materials and guess on labor, then forget overhead — insurance, fuel, software, phone, and the unpaid time between jobs. Over time, busy-but-broke is the result.

A simple framework

1. Estimate labor hours honestly.
2. Add materials and direct job costs.
3. Add a share of overhead for the time the job takes.
4. Apply a target margin (not just a markup).

Use the calculator

The Pricing Calculator handles the formula so you can quote consistently and protect your profit.

Track and adjust

After the job, compare what you charged to what it actually cost. Adjust your rate for the next one.