Most online tutors in the US charge between $45 and $150 an hour. Test prep (SAT, ACT) costs the most, languages and music cost the least, and school subjects sit in the middle.
The figures below are the middle half of hourly prices (25th–75th percentile) and the median, from public online tutoring listings we checked in November 2026. Each tutor on Ogretmenara sets their own price.
Typical hourly prices by subject
- SAT prep: $98–$238 (median $150) – see SAT tutors
- ACT prep: $90–$225 (median $150)
- Math: $60–$150 (median $100) – see math tutors
- Algebra 1: $60–$150 (median $100)
- Algebra 2: $65–$150 (median $105)
- Calculus: $60–$150 (median $100)
- Geometry: $60–$150 (median $100) – see geometry tutors
- Physics: $75–$150 (median $100) – see physics tutors
- Biology: $65–$145 (median $90) – see biology tutors
- Chemistry: $60–$125 (median $85) – see chemistry tutors
- Writing: $59–$127 (median $84)
- Reading: $48–$100 (median $69)
- Python: $55–$100 (median $70)
- ESL: $45–$80 (median $65)
- Piano: $50–$80 (median $63) – see piano tutors
- Spanish: $50–$84 (median $60)
- Guitar: $50–$80 (median $60)
- English conversation: $29–$47 (median $36) – see English tutors
What makes one tutor cost more than another?
- The subject and level. High-stakes exams and advanced subjects (AP, calculus, physics) cost more than primary school support or conversation practice.
- Experience and results. Tutors with thousands of hours taught and strong reviews charge at the top of the range.
- Lesson length. A 45-minute lesson at $60 is not cheaper than a 60-minute lesson at $75. Always compare the hourly rate.
- Online or in person. Online lessons are often 10–20% cheaper because there is no travel.
- Packages. Many tutors discount blocks of 5 or 10 lessons, and some offer a free or cheap trial lesson.
How many lessons will you need?
For a specific goal, such as an exam in three months, families typically book one or two lessons a week. At a $100 median that is roughly $400–$800 a month. For steady school support, one lesson a week is usually enough.
How to keep tutoring affordable
- Start with a trial lesson to check the fit before paying for a package.
- Book one focused lesson a week and practise between lessons.
- Compare tutors' hourly rates, not lesson prices.
- Consider online lessons, which widen your choice and often cost less.
Ready to compare? Find a tutor and send a free lesson request.
