One of the trickiest parts of being a freelance writer — especially when you’re just starting — is figuring out how much to charge. Charge too little, and you risk burnout and being undervalued. Charge too much (without the experience to back it), and you might scare off potential clients.
So how do you set your freelance writing rates fairly, competitively, and confidently?
This article will walk you through everything you need to know to determine your rates, communicate them clearly, and get paid what you’re worth.
Why You Shouldn’t Undervalue Your Work
It’s common for new writers to charge low rates just to get work. But this approach can backfire in the long run.
Here’s why you should avoid undercharging:
- It attracts low-paying clients who often expect more for less.
- It limits your earning potential, making it harder to grow your business.
- It devalues the industry, setting a precedent that writing isn’t worth paying for.
Instead, approach your pricing like a professional service provider — because that’s what you are.
Different Ways to Charge as a Freelance Writer
Before choosing your rate, decide how you want to charge. There’s no one-size-fits-all model — each method has its pros and cons.
1. Per Word
This is one of the most common pricing models in freelance writing.
Examples:
- Beginner: $0.03–$0.10/word
- Intermediate: $0.10–$0.25/word
- Experienced: $0.25–$1.00+/word
Pros:
- Easy for clients to estimate cost
- Encourages concise writing
- Popular for blog posts and articles
Cons:
- Doesn’t reflect time spent on research or editing
- May encourage focusing on word count over quality
2. Per Hour
Charge based on how long it takes you to complete a task.
Examples:
- Beginner: $20–$40/hour
- Intermediate: $40–$80/hour
- Expert: $80–$150+/hour
Pros:
- Fair if projects require lots of back-and-forth
- Encourages more realistic time management
Cons:
- Clients may feel uneasy without clear scope
- You have to track hours accurately
3. Per Project
Set a flat rate for a specific project (e.g., “$200 for a 1,000-word blog post”).
Pros:
- Clear for both you and the client
- Encourages efficiency — if you write faster, you earn more
- Suitable for retainers or recurring work
Cons:
- Must estimate time accurately
- Scope creep can be a risk without a contract
4. Monthly Retainer
Charge a fixed monthly fee for ongoing work (e.g., “4 blog posts per month for $800”).
Pros:
- Predictable income
- Builds long-term client relationships
- Easier to plan your workload
Cons:
- Requires consistent delivery
- May need negotiation over work limits
How to Set Your Rates as a Beginner
Even without experience, you should never work for free unless you’re building your portfolio on your own terms.
Consider these factors when setting your starting rate:
- Your living expenses and income goals
How much do you need to earn per month? Break it down by how many projects you can realistically complete. - Time investment per project
Don’t just price the writing — include research, outlining, editing, and communication. - Your niche
Some industries pay better. For example, finance and SaaS typically pay more than travel or parenting. - Client type
A corporate client can pay more than a solo blogger. Adjust accordingly.
Sample entry-level rates:
- Blog post (1,000 words): $50–$150
- Website copy (home page): $200–$500
- Email newsletter: $75–$200
- Product description (short-form): $20–$40 each
Start on the lower end while building confidence and samples, then increase your rates over time.
How to Raise Your Rates
As you gain experience and improve your skills, raising your rates is essential for business growth.
Signs it’s time to raise your rates:
- You’re fully booked or constantly turning down work.
- You’ve gained positive testimonials and experience.
- Your current rate no longer aligns with your time and effort.
Tips for raising rates professionally:
- Give existing clients advance notice.
- Justify the increase (new skills, better results, limited availability).
- Be confident — if you don’t value your work, others won’t.
What to Say When Clients Ask About Rates
You don’t need to justify every detail. Be confident and professional.
Example email response:
“Thanks for reaching out! For blog content, my standard rate is $0.10 per word, which includes research, SEO optimization, and two rounds of edits. I’d be happy to provide a custom quote once I know more about your needs.”
Keep it simple. If clients negotiate, that’s normal — but know your minimum acceptable rate.
What If Clients Say You’re Too Expensive?
Not every client will be a good fit — and that’s okay.
If someone says you’re too expensive:
- Politely explain what your rate includes
- Offer an alternative package (e.g., fewer words or fewer revisions)
- Or, simply thank them and move on
Don’t chase low-paying clients. Focus on those who value your work.
Tools to Help You Set and Track Your Rates
Here are some tools to support your freelance pricing and finances:
- Pay calculators: Use Bonsai or AND CO to estimate earnings
- Time trackers: Toggl, Harvest, or Clockify
- Invoicing software: Wave, PayPal, or FreshBooks
- Contracts: HelloSign or Docracy for free templates
Professional tools add to your credibility and help you stay organized.
Final Thoughts: Your Rates Reflect Your Value
Setting your freelance writing rates is both a business decision and a confidence exercise. You don’t have to undercharge to get clients — you just have to show the value you bring to their business.
Start where you are, grow steadily, and raise your rates as your skills and results improve. Your words are valuable. Price them accordingly.