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Estimating & Business

Labor Rate

A labor rate is the dollar amount charged per…

A labor rate is the dollar amount charged per hour for a technician on a job. There are two rates: cost rate (what it costs to employ someone) and billing rate (what the client is charged).

In practice

CRM Services calculates a technician costs $38/hour but bills at $85/hour — the difference covers overhead and profit.

Why it matters

Correct labor rates are the foundation of profitable pricing.

Common questions
What's the difference between cost rate and billing rate?+

Cost rate includes wages, taxes, and benefits. Billing rate adds overhead and profit on top.

What's a typical rate in Vancouver WA?+

General contractors typically bill $75-$125/hour depending on trade and complexity.

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