How much does AI consulting cost in 2026?

If you are wondering how much AI consulting costs, the honest answer is that it depends on what you need. Some work is a one-hour session. Some is a project that runs for a few weeks. This guide breaks down the real numbers in 2026 so you can budget before you start.

I do this work, so these are the prices I actually charge and see in the market, not made-up ranges.

Two ways AI consulting is priced

Most AI consulting is sold one of two ways. Hourly, for advice and live working sessions. Or fixed-price, for a specific thing built and delivered. Each fits a different need.

Hourly consulting

Hourly works when you want to learn, plan, or solve something live. For an individual or freelancer, expect around $100 an hour. For a business or team, expect $200 to $300 an hour, because the work usually touches more people and systems.

Fixed-price builds

Fixed-price works when you know the outcome you want. You pay one price for the finished thing. Here is a rough guide:

Which one should you pick?

If you are not sure what you need yet, start hourly. One session usually makes the path clear. If you already know the outcome, a fixed-price build saves money because there is no meter running. You can see my full product list and prices on the home page.

What changes the price

Three things move the number. How many tools and systems it touches. How custom it has to be. And how much of your data it needs to learn. A simple email drafter is cheap. An assistant trained on your whole business takes more work.

How to budget for it

Pick the one task that costs you the most time, the way I describe in my guide on how small businesses can use AI. Price that one project. Start there, prove the value, then reinvest the time you save into the next build.

If you want a real number for your situation, book a session or request a quote and I will give you a straight price within 24 hours.