# How much does AI consulting cost?

URL: https://businessleaders.ai/ai-consulting-cost/
Updated: 2026-10-04

Audit, pilot and monthly support prices explained, plus the running costs nobody mentions.

## The three ways to buy

AI consulting is sold as hourly work, fixed-fee projects or monthly retainers. Fixed fees tied to a measured target protect you best, because the risk sits with the consultant.

## What our prices include

The audit call is free. A two-week Audit is $6,500. A 6–8 week Pilot is $28,000 and includes the build, integration and training. A Partnership is $9,500 a month.

## Running costs

Model usage and hosting are passed through at cost, typically $50–$800 a month for a small business deployment. Ask any consultant for this estimate before you sign.