Hou Much Does It Cost To Hire A Ghostwriter? A Complete Guide
Have you ever dreamed of writing a book but felt overwhelmed by the actual writing part? Maybe you have brilliant ideas but lack the time or skill to put them into words. That’s where ghostwriters come in.
But here’s the real question: how much does it cost to hire a ghostwriter? And is it worth the investment?
Ghostwriting fees can vary wildly, from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands. Some ghostwriters charge per word, while others work on a flat-fee basis. But what really determines the price?
Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect and how to make the best choice for your project.
What Affects Ghostwriting Costs?
Fiverr once said in their article:
‘You either have a great idea for a book or need to get some content written for your business. In either case, a ghostwriter is an excellent choice to help you put your ideas to paper.”
Not all ghostwriters charge the same rates, and there’s a good reason for that. Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for ghost writing, including:
Experience and Skill Level
A newbie ghostwriter may charge significantly less than a seasoned professional. If you’re looking for the best ghostwriters for hire, expect to pay a premium for their expertise. More experience means higher-quality writing, faster turnaround, and a smoother process.
Type of Project
Ghostwriting prices vary depending on what you need. A simple blog post will cost far less than a full-length book. Here’s a rough estimate:
- Blog Post (1,000 Words): $100 – $500
- Short eBook (10,000 Words): $1,000 – $5,000
- Full-Length Book (50,000+ Words): $5,000 – $50,000+
The more complex and research-intensive your project, the higher the cost.
Turnaround Time
Need your book written in a few weeks? Expect to pay more. Ghostwriters charge extra for tight deadlines because it requires them to dedicate more time and possibly push aside other projects.
Level of Research Required
If your project involves deep research, expert interviews, or technical knowledge, the price goes up. A ghostwriter who specializes in a niche subject will charge more due to their expertise.
Typical Pricing Structures for Ghostwriters
Ghostwriters charge in different ways, and knowing these structures helps you choose the best option for your budget.
Per Word Pricing
Some ghostwriters charge per word, typically ranging from $0.10 to $1 per word. This is common for blog posts, articles, and shorter projects.
Per Page Pricing
For books, ghostwriters sometimes charge per page. Expect rates between $50 to $300 per page, depending on complexity.
Flat Project Rate
Many ghostwriters prefer to charge a flat fee for the entire project. This way, both parties know the total cost upfront. However, make sure you clarify what’s included, such as revisions and edits.
Hourly Rate
Some ghostwriters charge by the hour, typically between $50 – $250 per hour. This is less common for books but can be useful for small projects or consulting.
How to Hire a Ghostwriter Without Overpaying
Ghostwriting Services humorously questioned once:
“Now come to think about it, do you think legends like Beyonce, Sarah Palin, Barrack Obama, or Lance Armstrong had the time to write their own book?”
So, how to hire a ghostwriter without breaking the bank? Here are some smart strategies to get the best value for your money:
Set a Budget
Before reaching out to ghostwriters, decide how much you’re willing to invest. If you’re on a tight budget, you may need to compromise on experience or project length.
Compare Different Ghostwriters
Never go with the first ghostwriter you find. Look at their portfolio, client reviews, and pricing before making a decision.
Negotiate a Custom Package
Some ghostwriters offer flexible pricing. Instead of paying for extra services you don’t need, ask if they can customize a package based on your requirements.
Start Small
Not sure if a ghostwriter is the right fit? Start with a smaller project, like a blog post or article, before committing to a full book.
Where to Find the Best Ghostwriters for Hire
Finding a skilled ghostwriter isn’t as hard as it seems. Here are some popular platforms to explore:
- Freelance Marketplaces: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer have thousands of ghostwriters with varying rates.
- Ghostwriting Agencies: If you want a professional, evaluated writer, agencies specializing in ghost writing can be a great option.
- Networking and Referrals: Ask fellow authors or business owners for recommendations. Personal referrals often lead to the best matches.
- Social Media and LinkedIn: Many ghostwriters promote their services on LinkedIn and Twitter, making it easy to connect with professionals in your industry.
The Hidden Costs of Hiring a Ghostwriter
Hiring a ghostwriter isn’t just about paying for words on a page. Here are some hidden costs to watch out for:
Revisions and Editing
Some ghostwriters include a set number of revisions in their pricing, but others charge extra for edits. Always confirm this before signing a contract.
Rights and Ownership
Make sure you retain full rights to the content. Some ghostwriters charge additional fees for full ownership of the work.
Formatting and Publishing Help
If you need your book formatted for Kindle, print, or audiobooks, this may cost extra. Some ghostwriters offer premium ghostwriting packages that include these services.
Is Hiring a Ghostwriter Worth the Investment?
Absolutely! A skilled ghostwriter can bring your ideas to life, save you time, and ensure your book is professionally written. If you’re serious about publishing a book but don’t have the time or skills to do it yourself, hiring a ghostwriter is one of the best decisions you can make.
Just remember, quality ghostwriting isn’t cheap. If someone offers to write a book for a few hundred dollars, chances are the quality will be low. Invest wisely, and you’ll end up with a book that truly represents you.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does it cost to hire a ghostwriter? The answer depends on the writer’s experience, the complexity of your project, and the level of service you need. While ghostwriting isn’t cheap, it can be a game-changer for authors, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who want to share their stories without the struggle of writing.
If you’re considering ghost writing, take your time to find the right match. A great ghostwriter will make the process seamless and ensure your book sounds just like you but even better.
Zayn Cole
