Private tutoring is an appealing job because of its flexibility and high hourly pay. However, not all private tutors can make a living from tutoring. This is because a number of steady jobs are needed, in addition to a high hourly rate to make up for the time and expense of traveling to and from tutoring sessions. Tutors who are experienced and certified will be most able to command a high salary.

Salary Range
The salary range for a private tutor is anywhere from $10/hour to about $80/hour, depending on a number of factors. One such factor is the location, with tutors in higher-rent areas often able to charge more for their services. Another factor that will affect how much money a private tutor makes is the subject taught. Basic subjects will not yield as much money as specialized and high-level subjects.

Experience
Private tutors are likely to make more money as they gain experience and skill at tutoring. High school students who are just starting out by tutoring younger students will likely be in the lower-salary range. A tutor who has years of experience, solid references and proven results will be able to charge more for her services.

Certification
Whether the tutor is certified will also affect how much money he makes. Retired teachers or teachers who tutor in afternoon and evening hours will be able to charge higher rates for their sessions because they have been trained as teachers. If you are not teacher-certified, there are a number of tutoring credentials you can get from private companies such as the American Tutoring Association.

Volume
Private tutors should consider the potential overall volume of work they will be able to have. Hours will be entirely afternoon, evening and weekends because students cannot be tutored during school hours. Work during the summer will be difficult, unless parents are looking for remedial help so their children catch up before the school year begins again. This means that it is essential to build a large client base to make private tutoring a full-time job.

Costs
Unless you work for a private tutoring company that reimburses you for mileage and handles your salary, you will incur some extra costs. Although making $40 for a one-hour tutoring session sounds great, it could involve a one-way commute of 20 miles, increasing your work to two hours, plus costing you a few gallons of gas and wear on your car. This cuts your hourly rate to well under $20 per hour. Your clients will also likely treat you as an independent contractor, so you will have to figure out how to pay taxes as a self-employed individual.