Understanding CNC Machine Hourly Costs: A Comprehensive Guide
If you're planning to quote CNC machining work or calculate your shop's operating costs, understanding how much it costs to run a CNC machine per hour is critical. The answer depends on several key factors, including machine type, size, material, part tolerance, labor, overhead, and tool wear. In this article, we’ll break it all down to help you estimate your true hourly CNC machining costs.
Average CNC Machine Hourly Rates by Type
| CNC Machine Type | Estimated Hourly Cost |
|---|---|
| Desktop CNC Router | $10 – $30/hr |
| Benchtop CNC Mill or Lathe | $20 – $50/hr |
| Vertical CNC Mill (3-axis) | $40 – $100/hr |
| CNC Lathe (mid-sized) | $50 – $110/hr |
| Horizontal CNC Mill | $80 – $150/hr |
| 5-Axis CNC Machine | $120 – $300+/hr |
| Swiss Lathe | $100 – $250/hr |
These rates vary based on shop overhead, machine age, labor, and production volume.
Major Factors That Affect CNC Machine Hourly Costs
1. Machine Size & Type
Larger machines with more capabilities (like 5-axis or horizontal machining centers) have higher depreciation and power usage. More complex systems also require experienced operators, which increases labor cost.
- Small desktop machines (for hobby use): low cost, limited precision.
- Industrial machines: higher accuracy, throughput, and cost.
2. Material Type
Different materials affect run time, tooling wear, and required coolant or fixturing.
| Material | Cost Impact |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | Low–Moderate |
| Steel (mild) | Moderate |
| Stainless Steel | High (slow feeds, tool wear) |
| Titanium | Very High (hard to machine) |
| Plastics (Delrin, PEEK) | Low |
Harder materials require slower cutting speeds, premium tooling, and more power—all increasing per-hour cost.
3. Tolerances & Part Complexity
Tight tolerances (±0.001” or better), intricate geometries, or multi-sided machining require:
- Slower feed rates
- Additional setup time
- High-precision tooling
- Skilled machinists
Parts requiring ±0.005" tolerances may cost 30% less to machine than those needing ±0.0005" tolerances.
4. Tooling and Consumables
Tool wear and replacement contribute to hourly cost. Carbide tools, coatings, or custom cutters increase expense. Coolant, lubricants, and fixturing also play a role.
- Tool wear per hour: $3–$30 depending on material and feeds/speeds
- Coolant: $1–$5/hr depending on system
5. Labor Costs
The operator’s wage adds to the hourly cost. Rates vary by location and skill level:
| Operator Type | Hourly Wage (U.S. Average) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level Machinist | $18–$25/hr |
| Experienced Setup Tech | $25–$40/hr |
| CNC Programmer | $35–$60/hr |
Shops must also account for payroll taxes, benefits, and breaks.
6. Overhead Costs
Electricity, rent, insurance, maintenance, and software licenses are typically baked into the hourly machine rate.
- Power usage: CNC machines use 3–15 kW/hour = ~$0.50–$2.00/hr
- CAM software licenses: $200–$1,000/month spread across machines
7. Batch Size & Setup Time
High setup time for small batches increases per-part cost. Larger runs reduce hourly costs via:
- Less frequent setup
- Better material utilization
- Economies of scale
Real-World CNC Hourly Cost Example
Let’s break down a typical 3-axis CNC vertical mill costing $80/hr:
| Cost Element | Hourly Estimate |
|---|---|
| Depreciation | $10 |
| Labor | $30 |
| Electricity | $1 |
| Tooling Wear | $8 |
| Coolant & Fluids | $2 |
| Maintenance & Repairs | $5 |
| Shop Overhead | $24 |
| Total | $80/hr |
Tips to Reduce CNC Hourly Cost
- Optimize feeds & speeds for tool life
- Minimize tool changes and setups
- Use high-efficiency roughing strategies
- Upgrade to better CAM software for faster cycle times
- Avoid overengineering tolerances
Final Thoughts: Plan Beyond Just Machine Time
The cost to run a CNC machine per hour varies widely depending on the machine type, complexity of parts, materials used, and shop environment. While simple hobby machines might run at $20/hr, full production-grade 5-axis machines can easily exceed $200/hr.
Whether you’re quoting jobs or planning to buy a CNC machine, consider all the variables—not just spindle time—to get an accurate picture of your cost per hour.
Need help estimating costs or sourcing the right machine? Visit cncmachines.com to find new and used CNC machines that fit your budget—and your hourly rate goals.
