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The Global Insight

How much do small businesses spend on consultants?

Author

James Williams

Updated on March 08, 2026

In the U.S., small business consulting fees range from $95 to $1,500, with an average cost of $399. The hourly cost of consulting fees range from about $45 to $150 per hour.

How long do people stay at consulting firms?

The typical length of time a consultant works at a top firm for is 2-4 years, and some statistics even show that 2.7 years is the average point at which a consultant leaves a top firm like McKinsey, BCG and Bain.

How much do Organisations spend on consulting services on average?

The answer, based on data gathered from indirect procurement teams in around 100 major companies*, is that three-quarters of private sector organisations spend between 2% and 5% of their costs on consulting support. Thirteen percent spend more than 5%; 10% spend less than 2%.

What is the average hourly rate for a consultant?

Management consultants charge between $100 to $350 per hour. UX consultants charge between $25 to $190 per hour, with $70 being the average.

Do small businesses need consultants?

Small business consultants give business owners advice on strategy, problem solving, and developing skills. Consultants can be an important tool for small businesses that can’t afford full-time employees year-round, need a third party to solve a company issue, or want an expert to give advice and strategize.

How much do banks spend on consulting?

Globally banks spent $13.6bn (£10.2bn) on consultants, a rise from the $12.5bn spent during the year before, according to data from Source Global Research, far above the 1.1 per cent inflation seen in the rich member nations of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.

Which is the best small consulting firm website?

Listed below are 10 of the best small (50 person max) consulting firm websites, listed in no particular order.

Can a small business owner use a consultant?

Many business owners find it difficult to delegate tasks to employees or outside consultants. However, if you are a small business owner and spending too much time on noncore business activities, you can find assistance from consulting services.

How much does the US government spend on management consulting?

In 2018, the US federal government spent $25,270,552,818 in the management consulting industry, awarding 27,813 contracts to 5,609 firms. These contracts had an average per company value of $4,505,358. In 2018, the median pay for a management analyst/consultant was $83,610 per year or $40.20 per hour.

How much should I charge for consulting services?

Whether you’re a new consultant or you’ve been in the game for years, pricing your consulting services is one of the most challenging aspects. After spending over 2 decades helping consultants raise their fees by 30%-400%+, we’ve got the data on what works — and what doesn’t.