Writer Rates & Pricing
Content writing rates and earnings for freelance writers
Average Rates
Average Day Rate
£480
Average Hourly Rate
£64
These rates are based on UK market data and may vary based on experience, location, and project complexity.
Rate Calculator
Use our calculator to get personalized rate recommendations based on your experience, location, and target income.
Open Rate Calculator →Pricing Factors
Several factors influence writer rates:
- Experience level and portfolio quality
- Project complexity and scope
- Client size and industry
- Geographic location (London vs. other UK regions)
- Specialization and niche expertise
Setting Your Rates
When setting your rates as a writer, consider:
- Your target annual income and business expenses
- Market benchmarks for your experience level
- Your unique value proposition and specialization
- Client budget and project requirements
- Competitive positioning in your niche
Use our rate calculator to get personalized recommendations based on your specific situation, or review our comprehensive market benchmarks guide for detailed industry data.
Pricing Models
Writers typically use these pricing models:
Day Rate
Most common for writer work. Provides clear expectations and is easy to calculate. Average: £480/day.
Project-Based
Focuses on deliverables rather than time. Often more profitable as you benefit from efficiency. Better for well-defined scopes.
Hourly Rate
Useful for ongoing work, consultations, or when scope is unclear. Typically calculated as day rate ÷ 7.5 hours.
Retainer
Monthly fee for ongoing work. Provides revenue stability but typically includes 10-20% discount vs. day rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average day rate for a freelance writer in the UK?
The average day rate for freelance writers is £480 per day (£64/hour). Rates vary significantly by specialization, with technical writers and copywriters with advertising backgrounds commanding the highest rates.
How do writing rates vary by specialization?
Technical writing in medical, pharmaceutical, and enterprise software enables rates of £450-£750/day. Creative copywriters with advertising backgrounds reach £800+/day, while general content writers typically charge £250-£600/day.
Should I charge per word, per hour, or per project as a writer?
Project-based pricing is often most profitable as it focuses on value. However, per-word rates work well for content mills, while hourly rates suit editing and consultation work. Top writers charge £50-£250/hour.
What is the difference between copywriter and content writer rates?
Copywriters (focused on conversion and sales) typically command 20-40% higher rates than content writers. Copywriters with proven ROI track records can charge £800-£2,000+/day for high-value projects.