“How much should I charge for content writing?”
It’s the first question most freelance writers ask—and the one that rarely has a straight answer.
Back when I began freelancing, I remember staring at a blank invoice draft, unsure whether to charge $30 or $300 for an article. Was I too expensive? Too cheap? There wasn’t a definitive guide, and what I found online was either outdated, vague, or written in marketing speak.
This article is the guide I wish I had. One built not on theory, but on experience, research, and conversations with fellow professionals across the industry.
Why Pricing Your Content Services Right Matters
Underpricing hurts your bottom line, overpricing without credibility ruins client trust, and unclear pricing confuses everyone. A transparent, strategic pricing model:
- Attracts the right kind of clients
- Reflects the value of your skills
- Builds long-term client relationships
- Keeps you in business sustainably
If you’re a beginner or scaling your freelance writing business, learning how to price your services is non-negotiable.
Factors That Influence Freelance Writing Rates
Pricing isn’t about plucking a number from thin air. It depends on multiple variables:
1. Your Experience Level
Are you:
- A beginner with a few writing samples?
- Mid-level with a client portfolio?
- A specialist in a niche?
A 2023 ClearVoice survey found that freelance writers with 5+ years of experience charge 60% more on average than those just starting out.
My advice: Price based on your demonstrated value, not just how long you’ve been writing.
2. The Type of Content
- Blog posts
- Website copy
- White papers
- Email sequences
- SEO-optimised product descriptions
Each has its own complexity, research load, and market value. For instance, an SEO-optimised 2,000-word blog post requires keyword research, formatting, and metadata—which adds to the cost.
3. Industry or Niche
Tech, finance, SaaS, and health are high-paying niches because they demand accuracy, expertise, and sometimes compliance with regulations (HIPAA, GDPR, etc.).
A finance article might fetch £300, whereas a lifestyle piece may bring in £60–£100 for the same word count.
4. Project Scope and Turnaround Time
Urgent projects or those requiring interviews, visuals, or in-depth SEO will justify higher rates. Clarify scope to avoid scope creep.
Popular Pricing Models (With Pros and Cons)
1. Per Word
Example: £0.10–£1.00/word
✅ Transparent and scalable
❌ May undervalue research-heavy or strategic work
“I started with £0.05/word. Once I specialised in tech writing and built a solid client base, I moved up to £0.40–£0.80/word” — Aashna R., B2B writer
2. Per Hour
Example: £25–£100/hour
✅ Fair for ongoing projects, consulting, or meetings
❌ Clients may question what counts as billable
Tip: Use tools like Toggl to track hours and share logs if needed.
3. Per Project
Example: £150 for a 1,000-word blog post, all-inclusive
✅ Easy for clients to budget
❌ Risky if the project scope isn’t clearly defined
This is my go-to model for repeat clients. It simplifies invoicing and sets expectations clearly.
4. Retainers
Example: £1,000/month for 4 blog posts + strategy support
✅ Steady income, better long-term planning
❌ Requires trust and a strong relationship
“Once I proved my reliability, a fintech client put me on a £2,000/month retainer. It took six months of relationship-building and showing results.” — James M., freelance content strategist
How to Set Your Own Prices (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Determine Your Monthly Income Goal
Let’s say you want to earn £3,000/month.
Factor in:
- Taxes (20–30%)
- Admin time
- Tools (Grammarly, Surfer SEO, etc.)
- Time off
Realistic working time: ~80 billable hours/month
Step 2: Choose a Pricing Model That Fits Your Work Style
If you’re efficient and produce high-value work, per-project or retainer rates will serve you better than per-word.
Step 3: Benchmark Against Industry Averages
According to the ProCopywriters Survey 2023:
- Avg. UK freelance writer rate: £350/day
- SEO blog post (1,000 words): £120–£300
- Landing page copy: £200–£800
Check platforms like Peak Freelance, The Freelance Rates Database, and LinkedIn discussions.
Step 4: Test and Adjust
Start with a price you’re comfortable quoting—and revise every 3–6 months based on:
- Demand for your services
- Client feedback
- Inflation or tool costs
I increased my rates by 15% annually for three years. Not a single client complained.
Real-World Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Undercharging to Land Clients
You attract low-budget clients and burnout. Plus, it’s tough to raise rates later.
❌ Not Accounting for Non-Writing Tasks
Emailing, researching, outlining, revisions—all take time. Build them into your pricing.
❌ Ignoring Scope Creep
Always include a clause like: “Includes two rounds of revisions. Additional edits billed at £X/hour.”
How to Communicate Your Rates Professionally
- Create a rate sheet or service brochure
- Don’t list all prices publicly—provide starting rates
- Position pricing as an investment, not a cost
“For £250, I’ll deliver a keyword-optimised blog post with internal links, competitor analysis, and two rounds of edits. This helps your brand rank higher and generate organic leads.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Should I display prices on my website?
A: List “starting at” prices to filter low-budget leads, but keep flexibility to tailor quotes.
Q: What if a client says my rate is too high?
A: Explain what your rate includes and the ROI. If they can’t see the value, they may not be your ideal client.
Q: How often should I raise my rates?
A: Every 6–12 months, or after acquiring new skills, certifications, or results.
Q: Is Upwork or Fiverr a good place to start?
A: They’re useful for portfolio-building but have race-to-the-bottom pricing. Use them strategically and shift to direct clients ASAP.
Final Thoughts
Pricing freelance content writing services isn’t just about numbers—it’s about knowing your worth, understanding the market, and positioning yourself strategically.
Your rates aren’t just what you charge—they’re a signal of the value you bring.
Be flexible but firm. Adapt but don’t undersell. And remember: confidence grows with clarity.
Let’s hear from you—how did you decide your rates? Did a pricing mistake ever cost you a client (or win one)? Drop your thoughts in the comments or message me directly.
Further Reading:
Updated: June 2025 — This guide will continue to evolve as the freelance writing industry shifts.
