TRANSLATION & INTERPRETATION BUDGETING STANDARDS FOR PROJECTS AND PROGRAMS

Printable version 

A side-by-side comparison of pricing factors for translation and interpretation is below.

Translation

Standard rates range from $0.13 – $0.35 per translated word.

 

These rates vary depending on:
• Lesser diffused languages (languages requested less frequently) cost more
• Language pair (e.g., English to Spanish vs. Spanish to English)
• Formatting adjustments
• Rush turnaround rates

 

Additional considerations:
• Character count increases in most translated languages (expansion factor of at least 20%)
• Vendors may charge different rates and have different levels of quality

 

Interpretation

Interpreters charge from $80.00-$160.00 per hour based on a two-hour rate minimum.

 

These rates vary depending on:
• Interpreter certification level and technical expertise
• Type of interpretation (simultaneous, consecutive, shadow)
• Format of event (conference, meeting small group)
• Platform (virtual vs. in-person)
• Language pair (e.g., English to Spanish vs. Spanish to English)
• Rush turnaround rates
• 2+ interpreters for > 1 hour of simultaneous interpretation

 

Other costs to factor in:
• Travel time and mileage
• Use of interpretation equipment and technician
• Evening or weekend hours
• Lesser diffused languages (languages requested less frequently) cost more