You’re here because you want a no BS answer to ‘how much does it cost to hire a copywriter?’ So here it is! The cost of hiring a copywriter can vary significantly, ranging anywhere from $100 to $20,000 or more. Why such a big gap? It all boils down to three main factors: the copywriter's experience, the type of copywriting needed, and the scope of the project.
Let’s look at all the factors that contribute to copywriting costs and read to the end to see a ‘How Much Does Copywriting Cost’ grid and range of prices.
1. What Is Copywriting?
Copywriting is writing meant to persuade, influence, and motivate readers towards taking a SPECIFIC action. Copywriting is essential for communicating a brand's messages to their target audience in a way that encourages them to take action like making a purchase, scheduling a call, or signing up for an email list (or something else! It really depends on what it is you want your audience to do!)
Great copy should resonate with an audience and make them FEEL something by speaking to their emotions, addressing pain points, and highlighting their desires.
Effective copywriting captures attention, engages readers, and elicits positive responses whether it’s ‘liking’ a post on Instagram, scrolling down a website page to keep reading or clicking that ‘learn more’ button from an email.
Copywriting also helps you differentiate yourself from competitors. It should SOUND like you. Whether you’re a sassy, say-it-as-it-is, no BS business coach, or a luxury, soft-spoken and sophisticated interior designer - your copy should accurately reflect your brand's tone, style, and personality.
Well-crafted copy impacts everything from generating leads and driving conversions to building brand loyalty and nurturing customer relationships.
2. Average Cost of Hiring a Copywriter
No one copywriter is the same! From experience to specialties, we’re all different! As such, the average cost of hiring a copywriter can vary significantly depending on factors such as the type of project, the copywriter's experience level, the complexity of the content, and industry standards.
After doing some industry research here’s some general insights into the general copywriting pricing landscape.
* The average hourly rate for copywriting services ranges from $50 to $150 per hour.
* For project-based pricing, copywriting services may cost anywhere from $500 to $5,000 per project on average.
*These figures serve as very rough estimates and may vary based on specific project requirements and the copywriter's expertise.
Comparison of Pricing for Different Types of Copywriting Services
When comparing pricing for different types of copywriting services, it's essential to consider the scope, complexity, and goals of each project. Here's a brief comparison of average pricing for common copywriting services:
Website Copywriting: Website copywriting services typically range from $500 to $5,000 for homepage copy, $100 to $500 per product page, and $100 to $1,000 per blog post.
Advertising Copywriting: Pricing for advertising copywriting varies based on the type of ad and platform, ranging from $50 to $500 per PPC ad and $100 to $1,000 per social media ad.
Email Copywriting: Email copywriting services may cost $100 to $500 per newsletter and $50 to $300 per promotional email, depending on the complexity and frequency of sends.
Several factors can cause pricing to vary above or below the average range:
Copywriter's Experience: Copywriters with more experience and expertise may command higher rates than those who are just starting out.
Project Complexity: Projects requiring extensive research, technical knowledge, or creative input may incur higher costs due to the increased time and effort involved.
Client Expectations: Clients with specific requirements, tight deadlines, or a need for revisions may incur additional costs beyond the initial estimate.
Industry Standards: Copywriting rates may vary based on industry standards and market demand, with certain niches commanding higher rates than others.
Again – these are just general / broad estimates and it really will depend on your chosen copywriter’s pricing.
3. Factors Affecting Copywriting Costs
As mentioned above, there are several factors that’ll affect how much it costs to hire a copywriter. To break it down a little bit more, here's some insights to consider.
A. Experience of the Copywriter Can Impact Costs
The pricing of copywriting services often reflects the copywriter's level of experience. Copywriters with more years in the field generally command higher rates due to their accumulated expertise, proven track record, and ability to deliver high-quality work consistently.
Examples of Different Copywriting Experience Levels and Costs
Newbie Copywriters: A novice copywriter who is just starting out may offer lower rates to attract clients and build their portfolio. Prices for their services may range from $50 to $200 per project.
Intermediate Copywriters: Copywriters with a few years of experience and a modest portfolio may charge moderate rates, typically ranging from $200 to $500 per project.
Seasoned Professional Copywriters: Experienced copywriters with a strong portfolio and demonstrated success in the industry may command higher rates, ranging from $500 to $2,000 or more per project.
B. Complexity and Scope of the Copywriting Project
The complexity and scope of a copywriting project may directly impact pricing. Projects that require extensive research, strategic planning, creative ideation, and multiple deliverables often command higher rates due to the increased time, effort, and expertise required.
Examples of Simple vs. Complex Projects and Their Costs:
Simple Copywriting Project: Writing a short blog post or social media caption may be considered a simple project and could cost anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the length and depth of content.
Complex Copywriting Project: Developing a comprehensive content marketing strategy, including website copy, email campaigns, and whitepapers, may be classified as a complex project and could range from $300 to $10,000 or more, depending on the scale and objectives.
C. Industry Specialization Can Determine Copywriting Price
Hiring a copywriter with industry-specific knowledge and expertise may charge more because they understand the nuances, terminology, and pain points of their respective fields, resulting in more effective communication and engagement.
How Industry Specialization Affects Pricing:
Copywriters with specialized knowledge in niche industries or verticals often command higher rates due to the added value they bring to the table. Clients are willing to pay a premium for industry-specific expertise that results in more impactful and relevant content tailored to their audience's needs.
D. Word Count and Length May Impact Copywriting Costs
Word count serves as a primary factor in determining the pricing of copywriting services.
Longer projects with higher word counts require more time, effort, and resources to complete, resulting in higher overall costs compared to shorter projects.
Examples of Pricing Based on Word Count:
Short Copy: A short-form piece such as a product description or social media post may range from $50 to $200, depending on the complexity and specificity of the content.
Long Copy: Longer pieces such as articles, white papers, or website pages may range from $300 to $1,000 or more, depending on the word count and depth of content.
E. Timeline and Urgency Can impact Copywriting Costs
Tight deadlines or urgent project timelines often incur rush fees or expedited rates to prioritize the work and meet client expectations. Copywriters may charge higher rates for expedited delivery to compensate for the additional time and effort required to meet tight deadlines.
Examples of Rush Fees and Their Effect on Costs:
Standard Turnaround: Projects with standard turnaround times typically adhere to regular rates as outlined in the project proposal or agreement.
Rush Projects: Urgent projects requiring expedited delivery may result in additional fees, ranging from 25% to 100% or more of the total project cost, depending on the urgency and complexity of the project.
4. Types of Copywriting Services and Their Costs
Depending on the type of copywriting you need, that will also impact the cost. Below are some averages of copywriting projects and prices.
A. Website Copywriting: Pricing Range for Different Types of Website Copy:
Home page: The homepage serves as the virtual front door of your business. Prices for homepage copy can vary widely based on the complexity of the message, the length of the content, and the level of research required. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $5,000 for compelling homepage copy that effectively communicates your brand's value proposition and engages visitors.
Product Pages: Product pages play a critical role in driving conversions. Prices for product page copy typically range from $100 to $500 per page. The cost depends on factors such as the number of products, the level of detail required, and the need for SEO optimization to enhance visibility in search engine results.
Blog Posts: Blog posts are essential for attracting organic traffic and establishing thought leadership. Prices for blog post copywriting can vary based on factors such as word count, research complexity, and level of expertise required. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $1,000 per post for high-quality, SEO-friendly blog content.
Factors Influencing Pricing for Website Copy
Complexity of the Content: The complexity of the message being conveyed and the level of technical expertise required to communicate it effectively can impact pricing.
Length and Word Count: Longer pieces of content generally require more time and effort to produce, which can affect pricing.
Research Required: Extensive research may be necessary to create accurate and informative website copy, especially for industries with complex subject matter.
SEO Optimization: Incorporating SEO best practices into website copywriting can increase visibility and traffic but may require additional time and expertise.
Revisions and Editing: Revisions and editing rounds may be included in the pricing to ensure the final copy meets the client's expectations and quality standards.
B. Advertising Copywriting: Pricing Range for Different Types of Advertising Copy
PPC Ads: PPC ads require concise and compelling copy to drive clicks and conversions. Prices for PPC ad copy typically range from $50 to $500 per ad. Factors such as ad platform, target audience, and ad format can influence pricing.
Social Media Ads: Social media ads are an effective way to reach and engage target audiences on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Prices for social media ad copywriting can range from $100 to $1,000 per ad, depending on factors such as ad complexity and audience targeting.
Factors Influencing Pricing for Advertising Copy:
Target Audience: Understanding the target audience and tailoring the message to resonate with their needs and preferences can impact pricing.
Ad Platform: Different ad platforms have varying requirements and formats, which can affect the complexity and cost of ad copywriting.
Ad Format: The type of ad format, such as text ads, display ads, or video ads, can influence the pricing structure.
Ad Objectives: The objectives of the ad campaign, such as lead generation, brand awareness, or sales conversion, can influence the complexity and cost of ad copywriting.
Competitive Landscape: The competitiveness of the industry and the level of competition for ad placements can affect pricing for advertising copywriting services.
C. Email Copywriting: Pricing Range for Different Types of Email Copy
Newsletters: Newsletters are valuable for nurturing customer relationships and driving engagement. Prices for newsletter copy typically range from $100 to $500 per email. Factors such as email length, frequency, and personalization can impact pricing.
Promotional Emails: Promotional emails are designed to drive sales and conversions. Prices for promotional email copywriting can range from $50 to $300 per email, depending on factors such as the complexity of the offer and the level of urgency.
Factors Influencing Pricing for Email Copy:
Length and Complexity of the Email: Longer and more complex emails may require additional time and effort to craft, which can impact pricing.
Frequency of Emails: The frequency of email sends and the volume of content required can affect pricing for email copywriting services.
Personalization and Segmentation: Personalized and segmented email campaigns may require additional customization and targeting, which can influence pricing.
A/B Testing and Optimization: Iterative testing and optimization of email copy for performance improvement may be included in the pricing structure, impacting overall costs.
D. Other Types of Copywriting Services (Optional)
There are other copywriting services that range in pricing. Here are a few examples of misc. Copywriting projects and their average costs.
Content Strategy Development: Prices for content strategy development services typically range from $500 to $5,000, depending on the scope and complexity of the project.
SEO Optimization: SEO optimization of website copy and other content can improve search engine visibility and organic traffic. Prices for SEO optimization services can range from $100 to $1,000 per page, depending on the level of optimization required.
Content Editing and Proofreading: Content editing and proofreading services ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency in written content. Prices for editing and proofreading may range from $50 to $200 per hour, depending on the level of editing required.
5. Pros and Cons of Different Pricing Models
When hiring a copywriter, it's essential to consider the pricing model that best suits your needs and budget. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of different pricing models commonly used in the industry:
Hourly Copywriting Rates
Pros:
Flexibility: Hourly rates allow for flexibility in billing, especially for projects with uncertain timelines or scope.
Transparency: Clients have a clear understanding of how their budget is being allocated, as they pay for the actual time spent on the project.
Fairness: Hourly rates can be perceived as fair, as clients pay for the actual work done by the copywriter.
Cons:
Uncertainty: Clients may experience uncertainty about the final project cost if the scope or timeline expands beyond initial estimates.
Potential for Overbilling: Without clear project milestones or deliverables, clients may worry about overbilling or inefficiency.
Per-Word Copywriting Rates
Pros:
Predictability: Per-word rates provide predictability in pricing, making it easier for clients to estimate project costs based on word count.
Scalability: Clients can scale their budget based on the desired length of the content, paying only for the words written.
Cons:
Quality Concerns: Copywriters may prioritize quantity over quality to maximize earnings, leading to potential compromises in content quality.
Inefficiency: Clients may perceive per-word rates as incentivizing copywriters to write more words rather than focusing on concise, impactful content.
Project-Based Copywriting Rates
Pros:
Clarity: Project-based rates offer clarity and transparency in pricing, with clients knowing the total cost upfront before the project begins.
Aligned Incentives: Both clients and copywriters have aligned incentives to complete the project efficiently and effectively.
Cons:
Scope Creep: Without clear project boundaries, scope creep may occur, leading to additional costs and delays.
Risk of Underestimation: Copywriters may underestimate the time and effort required for the project, resulting in potential disputes over pricing.
Retainer Copywriting Agreements
Pros:
Stability: Retainer agreements provide a stable income for copywriters and ongoing support for clients, fostering long-term relationships.
Priority Service: Clients on retainer often receive priority service and preferential pricing compared to ad-hoc projects.
Cons:
Commitment: Retainer agreements require a commitment from both parties, with clients paying a fixed fee regardless of the volume of work completed.
Risk of Underutilization: Clients may feel they're paying for services they don't fully utilize if the agreed-upon workload fluctuates.
Each pricing model offers its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the optimal choice depends on the specific needs and preferences of the client and copywriter. Personally, I only charge by project.
6. Tips for Hiring a Copywriter Within Your Budget
When hiring a copywriter, quality is better than affordability.
Yes. I said it!
QUALITY trumps CHEAP every time. Why? Because simply put – you pay for what you get.
If affordability is more important to you than quality – then go for the more affordable copywriter - It doesn’t mean their talent, skills, or copy is (or will be) bad, but 9 times outta ten, you won’t get the results you're hoping for.
Again, this also depends on type or copywriting project, scope of projects, and current marketing objectives.
Here are a few more things to consider when hiring a copywriter that meets your budget.
A. Setting Clear Project Goals and Expectations
Clearly define your project goals, objectives, target audience, and desired outcomes before approaching copywriters. Provide detailed answers to questionnaires and specifications to ensure that your copywriter understands your expectations and deliverables.
B. Requesting Quotes from Multiple Copywriters
Reach out to multiple copywriters and request quotes for your project. Compare pricing, experience, expertise, and portfolio samples to make an informed decision.
C. Considering Value Over Price When Evaluating Copywriters
Look beyond the price tag and consider the overall value that copywriters bring to your project. Evaluate factors such as experience, expertise, portfolio quality, communication skills, and professionalism.
D. Discussing Payment Terms and Deadlines Upfront
Clarify payment terms, including deposit requirements, milestone payments, and final payment schedules, before the project begins. Establish clear deadlines and expectations for project
The Copywriting Costs Re-Cap
As you can see - there are various factors that influence copywriting costs. Here’s the sparknotes summary for you.
Understand the Range: Copywriting costs can vary widely based on factors such as the type of copy, the experience of the copywriter, project complexity, and industry specialization.
Types of Copywriting Services: Different types of copywriting services, including website copywriting, advertising copywriting, and email copywriting, come with their own pricing ranges and influencing factors.
Average Cost Insights: Industry research and data provide insights into the average costs of hiring a copywriter, offering a benchmark for budgeting purposes.
Consideration of Pricing Models: Explore different pricing models, such as hourly rates, per-word rates, project-based rates, and retainer agreements, weighing their pros and cons to determine the most suitable option for your project and budget.
Tips for Budget-Friendly Hiring: Implement practical tips for hiring a copywriter within your budget, including setting clear project goals, requesting quotes from multiple copywriters, considering value over price, and discussing payment terms upfront.
Ready To Discuss a Copywriting Project?
If you're a service-based female entrepreneur looking to elevate your online presence and drive meaningful engagement with your target audience, you're in the right place!
As a specialist in website copywriting and SEO, I offer customized solutions designed to amplify your brand's voice and maximize your online presence and impact.
With experience working across diverse industries, including copywriting for health and wellness brands, copywriting for coaches, copywriting for photographers, copywriting for interior design, copywriting for real estate agents, beauty, and lifestyle, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced by female entrepreneurs.
Whether you're revamping your website, launching a new product or service, or seeking to enhance your brand messaging, I'm here to collaborate WITH you every step of the way. Let's create compelling copy that captivates your audience, drives conversions, and moves your business forward.