How Much Does a Virtual Assistant Cost? Pricing Models Explained
Virtual assistant pricing explained: hourly freelancers, packaged hours from VA companies and full-time dedicated assistants, with what each model includes.
By the Zenstack team · · 2 min read
Virtual assistant prices vary widely because you are not always buying the same thing. Some offers sell hours. Others sell a person. Here is how to compare them.
Three ways to pay for a virtual assistant
Hourly freelancer. You pay only for hours worked. Good for small, irregular tasks. The assistant has other clients, so replies may be slow.
Bundled hours from a VA company. You buy a monthly package, such as a set number of hours. Tasks may be handled by different people. Unused hours often expire.
Full-time dedicated assistant. One person works only for you, during your hours. You pay a fixed monthly cost and get around 160 hours a month.
Side by side
| Hourly freelancer | Bundled hours | Full-time dedicated | |
|---|---|---|---|
| You pay for | Hours used | A monthly package | A person |
| Availability | When they are free | Within the package | Your exact hours |
| Same person every time | Usually | Not always | Yes |
| Cost per hour | Highest | Medium | Lowest |
| Best for | Occasional tasks | Light, steady work | Daily, ongoing work |
What a full-time virtual assistant costs
Through Zenstack, rates start at $12 an hour, about $1,920 a month for a full-time hire. Recruiting, vetting, contracts and payroll are included, and there is a free replacement in the first 30 days. See the virtual assistant page.
How to work out what you need
Write down every task you would hand over and estimate the hours per week.
- Under 10 hours a week: hourly help is enough.
- 10 to 20 hours: a bundle can work, but compare it with full-time cost.
- More than 20 hours, or tasks that need quick replies: a full-time assistant is usually better value.
Not sure what to hand over? See 25 tasks to delegate to a virtual assistant.
Hidden costs to check
- Minimum contract length
- Hours that expire at month end
- Setup or onboarding fees
- Extra charges for work outside set hours
- Your own time re-explaining tasks to a new person
Virtual assistant or executive assistant?
If you need someone to manage your own inbox and calendar, you are looking for an executive assistant, which usually needs more experience. We explain the difference in executive assistant vs virtual assistant. Ready to hire? Follow how to hire a virtual assistant.
Frequently asked questions
Is a full-time virtual assistant worth it for a small business?
If you have more than about 20 hours of recurring admin, support or research each week, yes. A dedicated assistant costs less per hour and learns your business.
What is included in a virtual assistant's rate?
With a staffing partner, the rate usually covers the assistant's pay plus recruiting, contracts and payroll. You provide access to the tools they need.
Do virtual assistants work my business hours?
It depends on the provider. A dedicated full-time assistant through Zenstack works your exact hours.