Ghostwriters are professional writers who create content on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your core activities. However, one of the most common questions that arise is, How much does it cost to hire a ghostwriter?
Understanding the costs associated with hiring a ghostwriter can be complex, as prices vary widely based on the type of content, the writer’s experience, and the specific requirements of your project. From web content and blogging to book writing and press releases, each type of ghostwriting comes with its own set of considerations and pricing structures.
In this blog, we will delve into the various factors that influence ghostwriting fees, explore typical charges for different types of ghostwriting, and provide insights into how you can make the most of your investment in a ghostwriter. Read on to discover everything you need to know about the cost of hiring a ghostwriter and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Let us dive right into it then and take you through how much do ghostwriters charge before you hire a ghostwriter.
How Much Do Ghostwriters Charge: Based on Different Types of Ghostwriters
High-tier ghostwriters, often those who have established themselves in specialized niches or boast impressive portfolios, can command significant fees reflective of their expertise, the complexity of the content, and the project’s scope all influence the cost.
Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision about hiring a ghostwriter. Here’s a detailed breakdown of typical charges for various types of ghostwriting:
| Types of Ghostwriting | Typical Charges | Factors Influencing Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Web Content Ghostwriting | £0.10 – £0.50 per word | Word count, complexity, SEO requirements |
| Blogging Ghostwriting | £0.05 – £0.30 per word | Post length, frequency, research depth |
| Book Ghostwriting | £5,000 – £50,000+ per book | The cost for printed books can vary depending on the book’s quality and size. |
| Article Ghostwriting | £0.10 – £1.00 per word | Word count, complexity, research needed |
| Press Releases Ghostwriting | £150 – £500+ per release | Length, urgency, media targeting |
| Email Newsletters Ghostwriting | £100 – £500+ per newsletter | Frequency, length, customization |
| Biography Ghostwriting | £10,000 – £50,000+ per biography | Length, detail level, interviews required |
| Academic and Business Writing | £0.20 – £2.00 per word | Complexity, subject matter, length |
| Speech Ghostwriting | £500 – £5,000+ per speech | Occasion, length, speaker’s style |
So the question on your mind might be, who sets these prices, and how exactly do ghostwriters set the cost?
How Much Does A Ghostwriter Cost UK: Based on Experience & Expertise
The ghostwriting services rates in the UK varies significantly based on the type of ghostwriter hired. Clients must consider their specific needs, budget, and the level of quality they require.
Whether opting for the high-end expertise of an experienced ghostwriter, the balanced approach of a mid-level professional, or the budget-friendly services of a newbie, understanding these distinctions helps in making an informed decision.
Freelance ghostwriters offer flexibility, while agencies provide a structured and reliable service, catering to different client preferences and project requirements.
By aligning your project’s needs with the appropriate type of ghostwriter, you can effectively manage ghostwriting costs and achieve your desired outcomes.
Here, we’ll discuss the typical ghostwriter fees associated with different types of ghostwriters: experienced ghostwriters, mid-level ghostwriters, newbie ghostwriters, freelance ghostwriters, and ghostwriting companies or agencies.
Type of Ghostwriter | Charges | Cost Factors | Suitability |
| Experienced Ghostwriter | Typically range from £0.50 to £2.00+ per word or £10,000 to £100,000+ for a complete book project. | Their past successes, client testimonials, the complexity of the project, and the level of research required. | Ideal for clients needing high-quality content for books, biographies, or other significant writing projects where the stakes are high. |
| Mid-Level Ghostwriter | Generally range from £0.20 to £0.50 per word or £5,000 to £20,000 for a book. | Their experience, the scope of the project, and the expected turnaround time. | Suitable for clients who want quality work without the premium cost associated with top-tier ghostwriters. |
| Newbie Ghostwriter | Usually range from £0.05 to £0.20 per word or £1,000 to £5,000 for a book. | Their education, any relevant writing experience, and their eagerness to build a portfolio. | Best for clients with a tight budget who are willing to work closely with the writer to achieve the desired outcome. |
| Freelance Ghostwriter | Can range from £0.10 to £1.00 per word or £2,000 to £50,000+ for a book, depending on their experience and the project’s demands. | Their individual reputation, portfolio, and the specific requirements of the project. | Ideal for clients looking for flexible, potentially lower-cost options, and who are comfortable vetting writers to find the right fit. |
| Ghostwriting Company | Typically range from £0.30 to £1.50 per word or £5,000 to £100,000+ for a book, depending on the project scope and the writers involved. | The reputation of the agency, the complexity and length of the project, and the experience level of the assigned writers. | Best for clients who prefer a turnkey service with less involvement in the hiring process and who need assurance of quality and adherence to deadlines. |
How Do Ghostwriters Determine the Cost?
The cost of the project is determined by many factors.
- The cost is determined by the type of project you hire the ghostwriter for. Let’s compare social media posts that have minimal content vs. a thesis report that is well-researched and racks up a large word count. Keeping this in mind, we can agree that the thesis will cost you more.
- Another thing that factors into the price is the experience of the ghostwriter. You can ask them to provide samples and references to back it up.
- Projects that require excessive research are normally more expensive because they require more time and effort from the ghostwriter.
- A project with a tight deadline will be more costly for you. The ghostwriters will spend more time than usual to complete the project on time.
- A project with a tight deadline will be more costly for you. The ghostwriters will spend more time than usual to complete the project on time.
How Much Do Ghostwriters Charge You?
Understanding how ghostwriters determine their fees is crucial for anyone looking to hiring a ghostwriter. The ghostwriting fee can vary significantly based on several factors, including the method of charging. Here are the most common methods:
| Charging Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Per – Word Charge | Easy to calculate, transparent pricing. | May not account for the complexity of the project. |
| Hourly Rate Charges | Predictable costs, clear scope and deliverables. | May result in higher initial quotes to cover all potential complexities. |
| Research Charges | Ensures high-quality, well-researched content. | Adds to the overall cost of the project. |
| Preparation Charges | Structured approach, better final product. | You need to pay an additional upfront cost. |
1. Per Word:
Charging per word is a prevalent and straightforward method. The ghostwriter sets a certain price tag on the words used. It is fair and easy to determine the ghostwriting cost using this approach. Clients can predict the total expenditure based on the expected word count of the project.
Typical Costs:
Web Content Ghostwriting | £0.10 – £0.50 per word |
Blogging Ghostwriting | £0.05 – £0.30 per word |
Academic and Business Writing | £0.20 – £2.00 per word |
Article Ghostwriting | £0.10 – £1.00 per word |
2. Hourly Rate:
Charging by the hour is a common method across many industries, including ghostwriting. However, most people avoid using the hourly rate with ghostwriters because it is challenging to predict the total ghostwriting cost. There is no sure way to determine how much do ghost writers charge per hour? It will need to complete the project.
Typical Costs:
Experienced Ghostwriters | £50 – £200+ per hour |
Mid-Level Ghostwriters | £30 – £75 per hour |
Newbie Ghostwriters | £15 – £30 per hour |
3. Per Project:
Charging a fixed price per project is another common method. This approach involves setting a set price for the ghostwriting project, with certain guarantees regarding deadlines and quality. This method provides clear expectations for both the client and the ghostwriter.
Typical Costs:
Book Ghostwriting | £5,000 – £50,000+ per book |
Press Releases Ghostwriting | £150 – £500+ per release |
Email Newsletters Ghostwriting | £100 – £500+ per newsletter |
Biography Ghostwriting | £10,000 – £50,000+ per biography |
Speech Ghostwriting | £500 – £5,000+ per speech |
4. Research Charges
Some projects require extensive research, which can significantly impact the ghostwriting fee. These charges cover the time and effort the ghostwriter invests in gathering necessary information, ensuring accuracy, and adding depth to the content.
Typical Costs:
Research-Intensive Projects: £500 – £5,000+ depending on the depth and duration of the research required.
5. Preparation Charges
Preparation charges may include outlining, planning, and initial drafts. These charges ensure that the project has a strong foundation and clear direction before the actual writing begins.
Typical Costs:
Preparation and Planning: £300 – £3,000+ depending on the project scope.
How Can You Finance This Project?
Let’s set aside the question of how much do ghostwriters charge and ask if we can meet the cost. We have listed down a few ways you can fund a major ghostwriting project.
1. Upfront Payment:
For all or a large chunk of the job, the client gives the ghostwriter a single, upfront payment. This is a simple process that gives the ghostwriter instant payment.
2. Payment in Installments:
The entire cost is broken up into multiple payments, which are due at various points during the project, including when chapters, drafts, or outlines are finished. This can lessen risks and assist both parties in managing cash flow.
3. Deferred Payment:
In rare instances, especially for customers with tight budgets or projects with hazy income prospects, the ghostwriter could consent to take money only when the project is finished and/or successful.
Ways To Save Money When Hiring A Ghostwriter
1. Negotiate Fees:
Everything can be negotiated, including the cost of a ghostwriter. The most successful negotiation strategy is finding a win-win situation to avoid underpaying the ghostwriter. Ensure they are paid what they deserve.
2. Consider New or Emerging Writers:
For those of you who have a budget constraint, you might want to find a ghostwriter that doesn’t charge too much. How do you find them? You can start by searching for ghostwriters looking for their next big break. Who knows, maybe you will find a diamond in the rough.
3. Limit Revisions:
Ghostwriters could charge you extra for multiple revisions. Try to minimize the cost by minimizing the number of revisions you ask from them.
4. Bundle Multiple Projects:
This option may depend on whether you have multiple projects or not. If you do indeed have multiple projects, you can hire a ghostwriter to work on all of them. You can strike up a deal with the ghostwriter in exchange for giving them more projects.
Ghost Writing Contracts: Key Points to Ensure a Smooth Collaboration
When hiring a ghostwriter, it’s crucial to have a well-drafted contract in place. A legal contract not only protects both parties but also clarifies the terms of the agreement, ensuring a smooth collaboration. Here are five main points to include in a ghostwriting contract:
1. Scope of Work
- Clearly Define the Project: The contract should explicitly outline the scope of the work. This includes specifying the type of content (e.g., book, article, blog post), the topic or theme, the target audience, and the expected word count or page length.
- Deliverables: Detail what the ghostwriter is expected to deliver, such as drafts, revisions, and final copies.
- Timeline: Include deadlines for each phase of the project, from initial drafts to final submission.
- Revisions: Specify the number of revisions included in the contract and the timeframe for completing them.
2. Payment Terms
Outline Payment Structure: Clearly state the payment terms to avoid any misunderstandings. This can include the total cost, payment schedule, and method of payment.
- Fee Structure: Indicate whether the payment is per word, per hour, per page, or a flat fee for the entire project.
- Payment Schedule: Break down the payment into installments, such as an upfront deposit, milestone payments, and final payment upon completion.
Additional Costs: Specify any additional costs that may arise, such as research fees, travel expenses, or special formatting requirements.
3. Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure
Protect Sensitive Information: A confidentiality clause ensures that any proprietary or sensitive information shared during the project remains confidential.
- Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA): Include an NDA to prevent the ghostwriter from disclosing any details about the project or the client’s identity.
- Intellectual Property: Clarify who owns the intellectual property rights to the content created. Typically, the client retains all rights, and the ghostwriter waives any claim to the work once payment is complete.
4. Termination Clause
Define Termination Conditions: Outline the conditions under which either party can terminate the contract. This helps prevent disputes and provides a clear process for ending the agreement if necessary.
- Breach of Contract: Specify what constitutes a breach of contract and the actions that can be taken if a breach occurs.
- Notice Period: Include a notice period required for termination, giving both parties time to address any issues or make alternative arrangements.
Refund Policy: Detail any refund policies if the contract is terminated before the project is completed.
5. Dispute Resolution
Establish a Process for Resolving Disputes: Including a dispute resolution clause can help manage conflicts amicably and avoid legal battles.
- Mediation and Arbitration: State whether disputes will be resolved through mediation, arbitration, or legal proceedings.
- Jurisdiction: Specify the jurisdiction or governing law under which the contract falls.
Legal Fees: Clarify who will be responsible for legal fees in in the event of a dispute.
Are Ghostwriters Worth It?
Whether or not a ghostwriter is worth it can only be answered by you. Some of the most common reasons why people hire ghostwriters are discussed below.
- Time is money. Hiring a ghostwriter will save you time, which cannot be priced. Lack of time can cause people to hire ghostwriters. While you are focusing on other tasks, they will be busy working on your writing projects.
- Writing may seem easy, but it is much more complex than it seems. An experienced ghostwriter knows the intricacies of writing a common man like you, and I may not know of it. Additionally, they are subject experts who can write at great length on the topic.
- The work you publish under your name will impact your reputation and public image. It might be worthwhile to hire a ghostwriter who will put out high-quality content. This is particularly beneficial if you are building a personal brand or publishing something for your company.
- In the midst of all this talk about cost, you should also consider cost-effectiveness. Look to the return on investment from hiring a ghostwriter and how it will offset the time and effort you save by hiring one.
Conclusion
The cost of hiring a ghostwriter can vary significantly depending on multiple factors such as experience, project scope, and genre. While novice writers may charge lower rates, seasoned professionals often command higher fees reflective of their expertise and proven track record. It’s crucial to establish clear expectations and communicate openly with prospective ghostwriters to ensure a successful collaboration. Investing in a skilled ghostwriter can ultimately enhance the quality of your content and help realize your vision more effectively. If you’re considering hiring a ghostwriter, take the time to research and choose someone who aligns well with your needs start exploring your options today.
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