How Much Money Do Writer Make? (2024 Statistics)

How much money do writers make a year?

Writers in the United States make an average salary of $50,000.

Is that a lot of money?

Well… perhaps. It all depends on who you ask.

It’s important to note that is average.

As in some writers will make more…

While others less.

Even with AI taking a considerable chunk of opportunities that used to be available to writers, writing still remains a viable source of income.

Some people write as a full-time job, while others prefer part-time writing gigs.

With the constant demand for high-quality content online, companies pay handsomely to meet their needs.

Writing is as noble as any other profession.

It’s been here since the start of human communication and has evolved to become a coveted and even lucrative skill.

A writer’s remuneration often hinges on the type of writing job and the industry or niche they are writing for.

For instance, copywriters may earn differently from content writers, technical writers, or ghostwriters, given the varied nature of their tasks and responsibilities.

In other words, there’s no way to determine the average amount of money a writer makes simply because there are too many variables to consider.

However, it is possible to gauge the average earnings of writers by looking at their various rates and salaries.

For example, freelance writers typically charge per word or hour.

The average rate per word ranges from $0.03 to $0.30, depending on the writer’s experience level and expertise, among other factors.

On the other hand, hourly rates can range from $30 to over $200 per hour.

Writers with a steady stream of clients or those employed by companies may earn salaries that vary depending on their job description and experience.

Writers in the United States make an average salary of $50,000 per year, with some earning as low as $23,000 and others making over $100,000.

Of course, these figures are subject to change based on the writer’s location, market demand, and other economic factors.

1 – How Much Do Copywriters Earn?

As of 2023, the average salary for a copywriter in the United States was generally estimated to be around $50,000 to $60,000 per year.

Copywriting is often associated with creating marketing content.

It is an in-demand job.

Businesses recognize the power of compelling copy in driving sales and are often willing to pay a premium for top-notch work.

The clientele for copywriters ranges from startups to multi-national corporations across various industries.

These companies require copywriters to create content communicating their brand’s value proposition to customers.

As such, a copywriter’s pay often depends on the challenges brought by the project, the amount of research required, and the writer’s level of expertise in the client’s industry.

A typical example of how a copywriter might be paid is on a per-project basis.

The writer will be paid a predetermined fee for completing a specific task.

For instance, a startup looking to launch a new product may hire a copywriter to create persuasive copy for their website, marketing collateral, and email campaigns.

The copywriter might agree to a flat fee of $2,000 for the entire project, which includes research, draft, revisions, and final copy.

This payment structure is beneficial as it provides the writer and client certainty regarding the project’s cost.

However, the project’s scope must be well-defined upfront to avoid any misunderstandings down the road.

Experience Level: Entry-level copywriters typically earn less than their more experienced counterparts.

A beginner might start with a salary in the range of $30,000 to $45,000 per year, while mid-level copywriters with a few years of experience could earn between $50,000 and $70,000.

Senior copywriters or those with specialized skills in high-demand niches can earn upwards of $70,000 to $100,000 or more.

Location: Salaries can vary significantly based on geographical location.

For instance, copywriters in major metropolitan areas like New York City, San Francisco, or London, where the cost of living is higher, often earn more than those in smaller cities or rural areas.

Industry: The industry in which a copywriter works can also impact their salary. Those working in industries like technology, finance, or healthcare may command higher salaries due to the specialized nature of the content.

Freelance vs. In-House: Freelance copywriters may have variable incomes based on the number and type of clients they work with, their rate, and the volume of work they can manage. In contrast, in-house copywriters typically have a stable salary but may have less flexibility in choosing projects.

Company Size: Working for a larger corporation or an established advertising agency can often lead to higher salaries compared to smaller companies or startups.

Who Are The Top Earning Copywriters in 2024?

Identifying the top copywriters in today’s rapidly evolving advertising and marketing landscape can be challenging.

As the field is broad and diverse, encompassing various specialties from traditional print and TV advertising to digital content and social media marketing.

However, several prominent figures stand out for their innovative approaches, successful campaigns, and influence in the industry.

Here are some of the top copywriters and content creators who are making significant impacts in the modern era:

Ann Handley: A pioneer in digital content creation, Ann Handley is renowned for her expertise in content marketing and social media. She’s the author of “Everybody Writes” and “Content Rules” and is a sought-after speaker and influencer in digital marketing.

Neil Patel: Known for his expertise in digital marketing and SEO, Neil Patel has made a name for himself as a top influencer on the web. He has co-founded businesses like Crazy Egg, Hello Bar, and KISSmetrics, and his blog offers valuable insights into content marketing and SEO strategies.

Joanna Wiebe: The founder of Copy Hackers, Joanna Wiebe is celebrated for her skill in conversion copywriting. She specializes in helping companies increase their conversion rates through compelling copy that resonates with their audience.

Joe Coleman: As the co-founder and CEO of Contently, Joe Coleman has been influential in changing how brands think about content marketing and strategy. Contently connects freelance writers with companies, and Coleman’s work has significantly impacted the field of content strategy.

Sarah Cooper: Gaining fame with her blog “The Cooper Review” and her viral sensation “10 Tricks to Appear Smart in Meetings,” Sarah Cooper has demonstrated her prowess in writing humorous yet insightful content that resonates with a wide audience.

Brian Clark: The founder of Copyblogger, Brian Clark, has been a major influence in the world of content marketing and copywriting. His work has helped educate and guide countless marketers and writers in the art and science of content creation.

Alex Cattoni: As the founder of The Copy Posse, Alex Cattoni has made waves in the copywriting industry. She focuses on modern marketing techniques, particularly in digital and online platforms, and runs a popular YouTube channel offering copywriting tips and insights.

2 – How Much Do Content Writers Earn?

In the United States, as of 2023, the average annual salary for a content writer was estimated to be around $50,000.

Content writers write informative pieces for blogs, websites, or media outlets, and in so doing, they also earn a good income.

Their pay usually depends on the topic, expertise in the field, and the audience reach of the platform they are writing.

AI has introduced automation into online content creation, enabling rapid content generation on a large scale.

It’s effectively increased the demand for content writers who can manage and supervise AI systems.

Machine learning algorithms gather and analyze huge chunks of data to detect trending topics and keywords.

This information helps writers create more relevant, SEO-friendly content that appeals to the target audience.

AI tools have simplified repetitive tasks, i.e., grammar and spell-checking, freeing time for content writers to focus on more creative aspects of their jobs.

The result is better productivity and innovation, as writers spend more time researching, brainstorming, and writing original content.

Who Are The Top Earning Content Writers in 2024?

Identifying the top-earning content writers can be challenging due to the private nature of freelance incomes and the variety of niches within the content writing field.

However, there are several well-known content writers and strategists who have built successful careers and are recognized for their high earnings, influence, and contributions to the industry.

Here are some of the notable figures in the content writing world, known for their success and impact:

Seth Godin: A prolific author, entrepreneur, and marketer, Seth Godin is known for his thought-provoking insights into marketing, leadership, and the spread of ideas. His blog is incredibly popular, and his books have been bestsellers.

Brian Dean: The founder of Backlinko, Brian Dean is renowned for his expertise in SEO and content marketing. His strategies and insights, especially in link building and search engine optimization, have made him a highly sought-after writer and consultant.

Darren Rowse: Known for his work with ProBlogger and Digital Photography School, Darren Rowse has built a successful career by creating valuable content and teaching others how to make money from blogging. His success with affiliate marketing and digital products makes him one of the top earners in the field.

Rand Fishkin: Co-founder of Moz and SparkToro, Rand Fishkin is a well-known figure in the world of digital marketing and content writing. His blogs and insights into SEO and content strategy have earned him both respect and significant earnings.

Pat Flynn: Known for his website Smart Passive Income, Pat Flynn is a successful blogger, podcaster, and affiliate marketer. His transparent approach to income reporting and effective content strategies have made him a top earner and influencer in the industry.

Sophia Amoruso: The founder of Girlboss and the author of “#GIRLBOSS,” Sophia Amoruso has successfully leveraged content across various platforms to build a strong personal brand and a profitable business empire.

James Clear: The author of “Atomic Habits” and a popular blogger, James Clear has built a substantial income through his book, speaking engagements, and online courses. His focus on habit formation and personal development has resonated with a wide audience.

3 – How Much Do Technical Writers Earn? 

As of 2023, the average salary for a technical writer in the United States was generally estimated to be around $60,000 to $70,000 per year.

Technical writers are involved in creating complex instructional manuals or guides.

Given the high technical knowledge required, these writers often get higher fees, and rightfully so.

Technical writing demands unique skills that set these professionals apart from other writers.

A technical writer must understand the technology, product, or process they are writing about.

This involves learning and mastering complex systems, sometimes coding languages or advanced machinery.

Likewise, the essence of technical writing lies in making intricate subjects accessible and understandable.

That said, they must be skilled enough to translate tech-speak into plain language for varied audiences – from the tech-savvy to the absolute novice.

This requires an exceptional ability to distill complex concepts into simple, clear, concise content.

Another critical trait is the ability to think from the user’s perspective.

A technical writer must anticipate potential challenges or queries a user might face and proactively address these in the documentation.

These specific skills required for technical writing directly correlate to the higher pay scale of these pros.

Since AI can’t easily automate or replicate knowledge and skills, organizations are willing to pay a premium for high-quality technical writing.

4 – How Much Do Ghostwriters Earn?

Entry-level ghostwriters might earn anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 for a full-length book project.

Experienced ghostwriters typically charge between $15,000 to $50,000 for a book, with highly experienced or in-demand ghostwriters charging $50,000 or more.

For high-profile projects, such as ghostwriting for a celebrity or a major business leader, fees can exceed $100,000, and in some cases, they can reach the high six figures.

Ghostwriters who write in someone else’s name belong to the higher-paid category.

The job involves writing books, articles, or speeches for other people or companies without receiving credit.

These writers often have years of experience and a remarkable portfolio, allowing them to charge higher rates.

Ghostwriters, despite working behind the scenes, attract significant monetary compensation, largely due to the potential of a book to become a bestseller.

Although these writers trade away the prospect of public recognition in exchange for anonymity, their motivation is often the hefty paycheck.

Ghostwriters usually have vast experience and a knack for turning a raw idea or story into a polished, engaging book.

They are often some of the most talented writers in the industry, possessing the ability to adopt the voice and tone of another individual and create a narrative that will fancy readers.

This skill requires comprehensive understanding, creativity, and the mastery of various writing styles.

A ghostwriter’s fees can skyrocket for high-profile clients or books with high earning potential.

Some ghostwriters might negotiate a percentage of the book’s royalties in addition to their upfront fees.

This can magnify their earnings if the book becomes a bestseller.

This high earning potential, coupled with the challenge of writing someone else’s ideas and thoughts, draws many talented writers to this profession.

For these writers, the satisfaction lies in seeing their crafted words touch readers’ hearts and top bestseller lists, even if their authorship remains unknown.

5- How Much do Book Authors Make?

Author incomes can be as varied as the genres they write in.

At one end are literary superstars like J.K. Rowling and Stephen King, whose earnings soar into the millions, thanks to bestsellers and movie adaptations.

On the other end, many authors earn modestly from their books, often supplementing their income with other writing-related activities or different careers.

The idea of an “average author salary” is complex, as earnings can vary widely based on numerous factors.

According to a report from the Authors Guild, the median income for all writers in 2023 was about $6,080, with full-time writers averaging around $20,300.

However, these figures are skewed by a small percentage of authors earning significantly more than the majority.

Several key factors determine how much an author makes:

Publishing Route: Authors who go through traditional publishing often receive an advance against royalties. Self-publishing, while skipping the advance, can offer higher royalty rates per book sold.

Royalties and Advances: Royalties vary based on the agreement with the publisher, the book’s format, and sales channels. Advances are upfront payments which are later ‘earned out’ through book sales.

Book Sales: Naturally, the more copies sold, the higher the author’s earnings. Bestsellers and books with steady sales over time can provide a substantial income.

Genre and Market: Some genres, like romance or thriller, have large and dedicated reader bases, potentially leading to higher earnings.

Author Platform: Authors with a strong platform, including social media followers and email subscribers, often find it easier to market their books and thus sell more copies.

Real-World Earnings: From Bestsellers to Niche Markets

The earnings of authors can also be contextualized through real-world examples:

High Earners: Renowned authors like Dan Brown and Nora Roberts make millions, mainly from bestselling novels and adaptations.

Mid-List Authors: Many authors earn a livable but not extravagant income from their writing. This group forms the backbone of the publishing industry, often juggling writing with other jobs.

Niche Successes: Authors specializing in specific genres or themes, especially those who have mastered self-publishing, can earn significantly. Their success often hinges on a loyal fanbase and effective marketing strategies.

Self-Publishing Surprises: Some self-published authors have defied odds, earning substantial incomes. Their success stories often involve savvy marketing and tapping into underserved niches.

What Were The Top Earning Authors in 2023?

James Patterson: He was reportedly the highest-paid author in 2021, earning an estimated $80 million. Patterson is known for his prolific output and popular series like Alex Cross and Michael Bennett.

J.K. Rowling: The creator of the “Harry Potter” series, Rowling continued to earn substantial royalties from her books and the franchise’s expansion into films, theme parks, and stage plays. Her earnings in 2021 were estimated around $60 million.

Jeff Kinney: The author of the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series, Kinney’s earnings were bolstered by book sales and adaptations. In 2021, his earnings were estimated to be in the range of $20-25 million.

Stephen King: A prolific author with many of his works adapted into films and TV series, King’s earnings in 2021 were estimated to be around $20 million.

Danielle Steel: As one of the best-selling authors alive, Steel’s vast collection of romance novels continues to sell well, contributing to her estimated earnings of around $15-20 million in 2021.

John Grisham: Known for his legal thrillers, Grisham’s consistent publication of bestsellers contributed to his estimated earnings of $14 million.

E.L. James: The author of the “Fifty Shades of Grey” series, James’s earnings were estimated at around $10 million, largely from the continued sales of her books and the film adaptations.

Nora Roberts: A prolific romance author, Roberts’s earnings were also estimated to be in the range of $10 million in 2021.

These figures are indicative of the significant earning potential in the field of book writing, particularly for authors who have created widely popular series or whose works have been adapted into other media formats.

However, it’s worth noting that such high earnings are not the norm for most authors, and the field of writing can present financial challenges alongside its creative rewards. For the most current and detailed information, sources like Forbes and other financial publications should be consulted.

Last Thoughts On How Much Money Do Writer Make

The financial landscape for writers in 2024 continues to be as diverse and multifaceted as the literary and content they create.

From bestselling novelists to freelance content creators, the range of earnings among writers is vast, influenced by factors such as genre, publishing method, platform, and market demand.

While top-earning authors and content creators can attain significant financial success, often in the millions, the majority of writers navigate a more modest earnings spectrum.

Aspiring writers should approach the field with realistic expectations, recognizing that while the potential for substantial income exists, it often requires a blend of talent, perseverance, strategic marketing, and sometimes a bit of luck.

The world of writing remains a challenging yet rewarding arena, offering diverse opportunities for creative expression and financial success.

Further reading:

Who owns the copyright for a ghostwritten book

Finding a Canadian ghostwriting service

How (and Why) Hire a Ghostwriter

11 Things Your Ghostwriter Doesn’t Want You To Know

Want to look for a ghostwriter?

Find a ghostwriter through referral 

How to hire a writer for your book