Virtual Assistant Pricing: How Much Should You Charge?

How to price your VA services with confidence + clarity

One of the biggest questions new (and even experienced) virtual assistants ask is:“How much should I be charging?”

And honestly? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

But there are smart strategies and industry benchmarks that can help you price yourself confidently, competitively, and sustainably—so you’re not burning out or undercharging for your time.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to set your virtual assistant rates, the different pricing models you can use, and what factors actually affect what you should be charging.

Why Pricing Is So Important for Virtual Assistants

Your pricing isn’t just about covering your time. It impacts how potential clients perceive your value, how sustainable your business is, and how confident you feel showing up to serve.

Too low? You risk burnout and attracting the wrong clients. Too high without a value match?

You’ll hear crickets. Finding your sweet spot is about more than money—it’s about positioning, boundaries, and long-term growth.

Understand the Average Virtual Assistant Rates

Before you set your rates, it’s helpful to understand what others in the VA world are charging. While pricing can vary by niche and experience, here’s a general breakdown for 2025:

• Beginner Virtual Assistants: $20–$35/hour

• Intermediate VAs (1–3 years experience): $35–$50/hour

• Specialized or Executive VAs: $50–$75/hour

• High-level Support or OBMs: $75–$100+/hour

  
  

Pro tip: It’s okay to start lower when you're building experience—but raise your rates as your skills grow. Your pricing should evolve alongside your expertise.

2. Know the Different VA Pricing Models

There’s more than one way to package your services. Here are the most common pricing structures for virtual assistants:

✅ Hourly Rate

Charge by the hour for the time you work.

Best for: General admin tasks, flexible scope projects

Heads up: Can cap your income unless you increase your rate over time

✅ Retainer Packages

Clients pay for a set number of hours or tasks per month.

Best for: Ongoing support, monthly client work

Pro: Recurring income + consistent work

✅ Project-Based Pricing

Charge per project (e.g. setting up a CRM, creating a lead magnet funnel).

Best for: One-off services with clear deliverables

Pro: Great for VAs with specialized skills

✅ Value-Based Pricing

Pricing based on the value you deliver, not time spent.

Best for: Experienced VAs or those offering strategy, automation, or transformation

Pro: Higher earning potential and a shift from trading time for money

Consider These 5 Factors When Setting Your Rates

No matter your pricing model, here’s what you should factor into your rate:

• Experience level — Have you been doing this for years, or are you brand new?

• Skill set — Are you offering high-level services (automation, strategy, tech setups) or general admin?

• Client type — Supporting solopreneurs vs. corporate teams often comes with different budgets.

• Cost of living — Factor in your personal financial needs and goals.

• Capacity + boundaries — How much do you want to work each week to maintain balance?

  
  

Remember: cheaper doesn’t always attract better clients. Often, it does the opposite.

How to Raise Your Rates (Without the Stress)

If you’ve been working with the same clients for a while but your rates haven’t changed, it might be time to adjust. Here’s how to do it smoothly:

• Give 30 days’ notice before the new rate begins

• Share the increase with confidence (no apologies!)

• Remind your client of the value and results you’ve provided

• Offer options (like a smaller package) if budget is a concern

  
  

Most aligned clients will understand and respect the decision. And if they don’t? You just made space for someone who will.

Pricing your virtual assistant services doesn’t have to be confusing or overwhelming. It’s about knowing your worth, understanding your market, and choosing a structure that supports the business and life you want.

You can always start small and scale up—but never forget: your time, energy, and expertise are valuable. You deserve to be paid accordingly.

Drop a comment below if you have any questions regarding pricing, I would be happy to help!!