How much does a reading tutor cost?
How much does a reading tutor cost?
$10 – $50 average cost per hour (online)
$15 – $80 average cost per hour (in person)
Reading tutor rates
A reading tutor costs $10 to $50 per hour on average for online tutoring or $15 to $80 per hour for in-person lessons. Reading tutor rates depend on the class format, session length, and the tutor's experience and qualifications. In-person, one-on-one lessons cost the most, while group online lessons cost the least.
| Lesson format | Average cost per hour |
|---|---|
| Online | $10 – $40 (group) $20 – $50 (private) |
| In person | $15 – $50 (group) $30 – $80 (private) |
Online
Online reading tutoring costs $10 to $50 per hour and offers flexibility and access to a wider range of tutors. It's more affordable than in-person options, especially if you choose a group setting, but it may not feel as personal or individualized.
In person
In-person reading tutor sessions cost $15 to $80 per hour, depending on the type. They cost more than online lessons due to travel and location expenses. In-person group classes, held at learning centers or libraries, offer a more social and interactive setting.
Private reading tutor
Whether online or in-person, one-on-one tutoring provides personalized attention and tailored lesson plans. These sessions normally have higher rates but often yield faster progress and more individualized support.
Group classes
Group classes help reduce the cost per student and encourage peer learning. While less personalized, they can be effective for students who benefit from collaborative activities and a classroom-like environment. However, students who are shy or experience social anxiety may not thrive in group settings.
Reading tutor cost factors
Several factors affect how much you’ll pay for a reading tutor:
Location: Tutors in urban areas and high-cost-of-living cities tend to charge more, sometimes up to $100 to $200 per hour.
Tutor’s experience: Certified or highly experienced tutors command higher rates, especially those with degrees in early childhood education or a certificate in literacy instruction.
Student's age: Sessions with very young students may require unique skills or techniques, as will older students preparing for higher-level exams.
Session frequency: Some tutors or centers charge less per session if you sign up for more frequent visits.
Materials: Some tutors charge extra for supplies like workbooks or assessments.
Session length: Most reading tutoring sessions last 30 minutes to an hour. Longer or more frequent sessions increase total costs.
Some tutors and organizations offer sliding scale fees based on family income or provide scholarships for students in need.
Specialized tutoring
Tutors with advanced certifications or experience in specialized programs like Orton-Gillingham or Science of Reading charge higher rates, often up to $90 to $165 per hour in major metro areas. These tutors are in high demand for students with dyslexia or significant reading challenges.
Reading tutor FAQs
What does a reading tutor do?
Reading tutors assist with phonics, vocabulary, sight words, reading fluency, comprehension, and critical thinking, supporting overall academic success. Tutors use engaging stories, interactive games, and positive reinforcement to make reading enjoyable and spark a lifelong interest in books.
A reading tutor also assesses each child’s strengths and weaknesses, then tailors lesson plans to address specific needs and interests.
What are the main benefits of reading tutoring?
Reading tutoring provides personalized instruction, helping children strengthen their literacy foundation, improve comprehension, and build confidence. Tutors provide encouragement and praise, helping children overcome frustration and become more willing to tackle challenging reading materials.
Are reading tutors only for struggling readers?
No, reading tutors can help both struggling and advanced readers deepen comprehension, expand vocabulary, and develop higher-level analysis skills. Tutors use targeted strategies to meet the individual student's needs and goals.
How quickly can my child see progress with a reading tutor?
Progress varies by child and frequency of sessions, but many students show measurable improvements in reading fluency and comprehension within a few weeks to months.
What to look for in a reading tutor
Selecting the right tutor is key to reaching your reading goals efficiently. Follow these tips to help you choose a reading tutor near you:
Look for tutors with relevant credentials or literacy instruction certifications.
Read reviews from previous learners or parents on Tutors.com and Google.
Select a tutor whose skills and experience match your learning objectives.
Schedule a trial session to evaluate the tutor’s patience, communication style, and adaptability to your needs.
Ensure the tutor’s availability fits your schedule.
Questions to ask a reading tutor
Before hiring a reading tutor, ask these important questions:
What is your background and experience in literacy education and reading instruction?
How do you assess a student’s reading level and track progress over time?
What strategies do you use to address different learning styles and needs?
Can you describe a successful approach you’ve used to help a struggling reader?
How do you communicate progress and challenges to parents or guardians?
What materials, methods, or technology do you use during sessions?
Are you comfortable working with students who have learning differences, such as dyslexia?
What is your availability? Can you accommodate our scheduling needs?
How long do your sessions normally last?
Can you provide references from past clients?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.