Starting your journey as a freelance writer is exciting — until it’s time to set your rates. How much should you charge? What’s fair? And how do you avoid underpricing your work?
This guide will help you set your writing rates confidently and professionally, even if you’re just starting out.
1. Understand the Common Pricing Models
Before setting a rate, know the different ways freelance writing is typically priced:
- Per Word – Great for articles and blogs. Common starting range: $0.05 to $0.20/word.
- Per Hour – Ideal for ongoing or administrative work. Beginners often charge $20–$40/hour.
- Per Project – Best for large pieces (like website content). Price based on time, research, and value.
- Monthly Retainer – Consistent work for a set fee. Good for long-term client relationships.
2. Consider These Key Factors
Your rate should reflect more than just word count. Consider:
- Experience Level – New writers often start on the lower end, then scale up with experience.
- Research Involved – Complex topics (finance, tech, legal) require more effort and can command higher fees.
- Client Type – A startup’s budget will differ from a corporate brand’s.
- Turnaround Time – Rush work should cost more.
- Your Expenses – Time, software, taxes — make sure your rate supports your business sustainability.
3. Do the Math
Figure out how much you need to earn monthly and work backward. For example:
- Goal: $3,000/month
- Available hours: 60
- You’d need to charge at least $50/hour or write at a rate that earns $750/week
This sets a baseline for what’s sustainable.
4. Start Simple, Then Adjust
If you’re new, start with a competitive but fair rate — something like $0.10/word or $30/hour. As you gain experience and positive feedback, raise your rates. Many clients will pay more for reliability and quality.
5. Be Transparent and Confident
When discussing pricing with clients:
- Share your rate clearly (e.g., “I charge $150 for a 1,000-word blog post”).
- Justify your rate based on research, value, or turnaround time — not just the word count.
- Don’t apologize for charging. You’re offering a valuable service.
6. Revisit and Raise Your Rates Regularly
Your skills improve with every project. Every 6–12 months, review your rates and make adjustments based on:
- Demand for your services
- Feedback from clients
- New industries or skills you’ve mastered
Final Thought:
Setting your rates isn’t about guessing — it’s about valuing your time, skills, and results. Start where you are, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to grow into higher-paying work. You’re not just writing — you’re building a business.