One of the biggest challenges for new freelance writers is figuring out how much to charge. Price too low, and you risk burnout and attracting low-quality clients. Price too high too soon, and you may scare away opportunities. The key is to find a balance — one that reflects your skill level, respects your time, and grows with your experience.
In this article, you’ll learn how to price your writing services confidently, what pricing models are most common, and how to raise your rates over time.
Why Pricing Matters More Than You Think
Pricing is about more than money — it affects:
- How seriously clients take you
- The kind of clients you attract
- Your motivation and productivity
- Your long-term business sustainability
Undervaluing yourself leads to exhaustion. Overpricing without experience leads to rejection. But with the right strategy, you’ll land great clients and grow your income steadily.
Common Freelance Writing Pricing Models
Let’s explore the most popular ways freelance writers get paid:
1. Per Word
You charge a fixed amount for each word written.
Example: $0.05 per word × 1,000 words = $50
Pros:
- Simple to calculate
- Easy to compare with market averages
- Encourages concise writing
Cons:
- Can undervalue research-heavy or strategic work
- May encourage clients to cut word count to save money
Best for: Blog posts, product descriptions, SEO articles
2. Per Hour
You track your time and charge based on hours worked.
Example: $25/hour × 4 hours = $100
Pros:
- Fair if the work requires lots of research or meetings
- Flexible for editing, admin, and communication time
Cons:
- Clients may worry about efficiency
- Harder to estimate project cost upfront
Best for: Ongoing content work, editing, strategy consultations
3. Per Project
You charge a flat rate for an entire project, regardless of word count or time spent.
Example: “Write 3 blog posts – $150 total”
Pros:
- Easy for clients to budget
- Encourages productivity on your part
- Allows pricing based on value, not just time
Cons:
- If the project takes longer than expected, you earn less
- Requires good estimating skills
Best for: Website copy, blog packages, newsletters, eBooks
4. Monthly Retainers
You agree to deliver a set amount of work monthly for a fixed fee.
Example: “4 articles/month for $400”
Pros:
- Predictable income
- Builds long-term client relationships
- Reduces the need to constantly hunt for new jobs
Cons:
- Can limit flexibility if poorly managed
- Requires clear contracts and scope
Best for: Established writers, agency clients, businesses with ongoing needs
What Should Beginners Charge?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are typical beginner rates (in USD):
| Type of Work | Beginner Rate |
|---|---|
| Blog Posts | $0.03–$0.07 per word |
| Website Copy | $100–$300 per page |
| Email Newsletters | $50–$150 per email |
| Product Descriptions | $5–$20 each |
| Editing/Proofreading | $15–$35 per hour |
You may start lower to build experience, but avoid working for free. Even small payments show your work has value.
How to Set Your Prices
Here’s a simple process to help you price confidently:
Step 1: Know Your Minimum Rate
Figure out your basic income needs:
- How much do you want to earn per month?
- How many hours per week can you work?
Let’s say:
- You want to earn $1,500/month
- You can work 60 hours/month
Then your minimum rate is $25/hour.
From there, convert that to per word or per project depending on the job.
Step 2: Research Market Rates
Search industry benchmarks on websites like:
- ClearVoice
- Freelance Writers Den
- Contently
- Upwork job listings
This gives you a sense of what others are charging.
Step 3: Adjust Based on the Job
Not all writing is equal. Consider:
- Research time
- Subject complexity
- SEO requirements
- Interviews or meetings
- Editing and revision rounds
A 1,000-word article might take 2 hours or 6 hours depending on the topic.
Step 4: Factor in Experience
As you gain more experience, raise your prices. New clients won’t know you started low — they’ll only see your quality.
Use testimonials, portfolio pieces, and improved writing to justify higher rates.
Step 5: Be Transparent With Clients
When quoting a price:
- Explain what’s included (word count, SEO, revisions)
- Outline payment terms (e.g., 50% upfront)
- Use contracts or written agreements
Professional communication increases trust and reduces misunderstandings.
How to Raise Your Rates
Raising your rates is a normal part of growth. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- For new clients: Simply quote your new rates — no explanation needed
- For existing clients: After 3–6 months of working together, say:
“I’ve really enjoyed working on your content. As I’ve gained more experience, I’m updating my rates to reflect the value I bring. Starting next month, my rate will be [$X]. Let me know if you’d like to continue — I’d love to keep working together.”
Most good clients will understand — and those who don’t may not be worth keeping.
Signs You’re Undercharging
If any of these apply, it’s time to raise your rates:
- You feel resentful or burnt out after delivering a project
- Your income isn’t covering your expenses
- You’re too busy to take on new (better paying) clients
- Clients are saying “yes” too quickly to every proposal
Your rates should reflect your skill, effort, and results — not just what others are charging.
Final Words: Price With Confidence, Not Fear
Your prices send a message. When you charge too little, clients may assume your quality is low. When you price fairly, you attract clients who respect your work and time.
Don’t be afraid to start small — but don’t stay there. With every new project, you gain the right to charge more. Know your worth, communicate clearly, and let your pricing reflect the professional you are becoming.