How Much Does a Content Writer Make? Answered

How much does a content writer make? The answer depends on the writer, their experience, and the industry.

As you consider your options for a career or a side gig as a copywriter, you may be wondering, “How much does a content writer make?” This question is fair as you work to develop your freelance writer career. 

The average salary of a content writer, according to GlassDoor is around $48,700 in the United States. Talent.com estimates the average salary to be £48,750 a year in the UK. Many factors can impact this annual salary figure, but these estimates show that writing can be a lucrative career option.

This guide will explore what impacts a content writer’s salary and get a job in writing.

How Much Does a Content Writer Make? It Depends on These 7 Factors

Once you know what a content writer does, it’s worthwhile considering their annual salary or the hourly rate. That way, you can decide if this career is right for you. The below factors indicate how much a writer will make on average.

1. Years of Experience

Years of experience in content writing have a direct impact on how much a writer makes. While GlassDoor indicates an average of $48,700 a year, that increases to $53,250 for writers with four to six years of experience. Writers with over a decade of experience make over $65,700 on average.

2. Location

The location where a writer works also impacts the pay range of a content writer. The cost of living in a particular part of the country may demand a higher pay rate. For example, a writer living in New York City, San Francisco, or Los Angeles cannot live on the same wage as a writer living in rural Kentucky.

3. Niche

Many writers find a niche they love to write about, and they focus most of their efforts there. For instance, a technical writer will write about technology, apps, and computers, while a health care writer will write about the medical world. The niche you love may or may not be the best paying niche out there, and that will impact your overall salary range. 

4. Level of Education

Sometimes, education has an impact on how much a writer makes. A writer with a master’s degree in a particular niche may be able to charge a higher hourly rate than one without an advanced degree. 

5. Writing Skill

The better you are at writing, the more you will get paid for your writing work. Quality content is in high demand, but many entry-level positions do not rely quite as heavily on quality. If you can build your freelance writing skills, you will be able to apply for higher-paying writing jobs.

6. Type of Writing

The type of writing you specialize in will also impact your overall salary estimate. Writers who focus on technical writing, white papers, e-books, and long-form content are paid at a higher pay rate than bloggers and basic web content writers. Learning how to write higher-paid writing types will help you increase your rate above the average base salary for content writers.

7. Hourly Rate

Ultimately, the range of pay for content writer jobs is so wide, the writer’s own choice for an hourly wage has a direct impact on their income. If you have enough writing skills and can build a solid portfolio as a freelance content writer, you can command a higher wage than someone who is just starting out or who lacks skill.

Learn how to set writing rates.

A Final Word on How Much Does a Content Writer Make

A content writer can easily make $50,000 a year or more USD. Your skill as a writer, your niche, and your overall experience in the digital content marketing world has a direct impact on how much you can make.

Writers who write full-time can make a significant amount of money. According to Talent.com, the highest-paid content writers in the United States earn over $90,000 a year in the field. If you are willing to put in the effort, you can make a good income as a content writer.

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