How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Copywriter?
(and is it worth it?)
The answer to the first part of that question is: it depends. It depends on what you need written. The answer to the second part (Is it worth it?) depends on your answer to number one, plus how much you value your time and WHO you hire. In this post, I’ll share how copywriters typically charge, what factors go into those costs, and whether it makes sense for you to hire one.
Let’s break it down ⤵️
What Do Copywriters Write?
How Much Is Your Time Worth?
Calculate the Cost.
You Get What You Pay For!
When It Makes More Sense to DIY.
1. What Do Copywriters Write?
The term copywriting (or content writing) covers a lot of ground, but the core of our work is simple: we help you say the right thing in the right way to the right audience. Here are some of my top copywriting services on offer:
Website copy — for a website refresh or a shiny new site
Customer communication — think emails, blog posts, newsletters, social media
Video scripting — know what you’re going to say before you jump in front of the camera
Business profiles — crafting on-brand profiles to boost your credibility
Product descriptions — creating stories about your goods and services that sell
Proofreading and editing — maybe you like to write, but need a fresh look before you hit send
2. How Much Is Your Time Worth?
Time is money, right? Do the math: If you bill $250/hour and spend 6 hours writing a blog post, that’s $1,500 of your time. A professional copywriter might charge $300–$500 for the same post, freeing you to work with clients, close deals, or do what only you can do.
Hiring a copywriter makes sense if:
You struggle to put your ideas into words.
You’ve amassed a wealth of knowledge, but can’t translate it for your potential clients
Writing drains your time and energy
You want a stronger, more strategic marketing presence
You want consistency across your website, blog posts, emails, and social posts
3. Calculate the Cost.
Copywriting rates vary depending on experience, specialty, and the scope of work. Let’s dive in a little deeper and look at the three most common pricing structures used.
Charging by the word, by the hour, or by project?
There are three main pricing models for copywriters and, just like with most things in life and business, the cheapest option isn’t always the best one.
By the Word: A word-based rate (often $0.10–$1.00+ per word)
By the Hour: Usually from $50 to $200+
By the Project: Flat project pricing
Personally, I use a hybrid approach, offering project estimates based on my hourly rate, which is different depending on whether I’m writing white-label copy for a marketing agency or working directly for a client.
Resource: You can check out the Editorial Freelancers Association’s rate chart to get a sense, but keep in mind these are guidelines.
4. You Get What You Pay For!
This industry is a definite case of “you get what you pay for!” Not all copywriters are created equal. Some of us have spent a lifetime perfecting our craft, others not so much. Remember, a skilled copywriter isn’t just typing words. We’re—>
Weaving your words into compelling content
Using the power of storytelling
Researching client needs
Integrating marketing strategy
Formatting, designing, and structuring copy so it’s actually read
Editing and proofreading
Pro Tip: “I can write anything!” is a red flag when hiring! No one is amazing at writing everything for everyone in every industry. A strong writer knows their wheelhouse and knows people to refer to when it’s not the right fit. Read my blog post How to Hire a Copywriter for more info.
5. When It Makes More Sense To DIY
All of this being said, not every situation calls for outside help. For example, may you—>
Enjoy writing and are good at it
Have more time than money
You are in the very early stages of your business
If these things resonate, doing it yourself could be the right move … for now. Many business owners take the DIY approach until they’re ready to scale, then bring in a copywriter to level up their brand. Another option is to bring in someone (like me!) to proofread and edit your work. This allows you to do the writing, but provides a fresh and unbiased look before you publish, at a lower price point.
Final thoughts
So, is hiring a copywriter worth it? The answer is it depends: on your budget, your goals, and the value of your own time. If writing drains your energy or keeps you from higher-value work, hiring a copywriter often pays for itself.
At the end of the day, you’re not just paying for words; you’re investing in strategy, clarity, and content that helps your business grow.
I’d love to hear what you’re working on and see how I can help. 💬 Let’s connect!
Want to learn more about my writing services? Click HERE.
If you are in the market for a copywriter, check out this blog on How to Hire a Copywriter.
