How to make money writing in the US

If you love writing, why not turn your passion into a paycheck? It’s a skill that a lot of businesses, publishers, and content creators out there are willing to pay for. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, writers and authors in the U.S. earn a median annual salary of $73,690, with over 15,000 new job opportunities opening each year. 

If you’ve ever wondered how to make money writing, now is the perfect time to explore your options. Whether you’re looking to learn how to earn money by writing full-time or as a flexible side gig, this guide will help you navigate the most profitable paths. We’ll cover practical strategies to turn your writing into a steady income.

What should you know about the writing industry in the US?

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The demand for writers in the US is growing, driven by the rise of digital content, remote work, and the need for businesses to maintain an online presence. Here are some seasonal trends and data on pricing fluctuations that can help you maximize your earning potential throughout the year.

Seasonality trends in US writing services

Based on our data, the US writing industry has seen strong growth, with total task postings nearly doubling year-over-year. The fastest-growing segment is social media online support while copywriting remains the dominant service. 

Demand peaks in Q4, particularly December, making it the best period for Taskers to earn. Pricing trends highlight January as the best-paying month as well, while increased competition in December lowers average earnings.

Here are the key insights from our findings on writing-related tasks posted on Airtasker US:

• Social Media Online Support experienced rapid growth (+230% YoY), possibly due to the rise of demand for digital marketing content.

• Copywriting tasks saw a significant increase (+91% YoY), which shows continued demand for high-quality written content.

• Q4 remains the best quarter for earning potential, potentially driven by business marketing needs, holiday promotions, and new-year planning.

If you specialize in social media writing or digital content creation, this sector is seeing the fastest demand growth and offers significant earning potential. Meanwhile, although copywriting remains a core market, evolving trends in SEO and AI-assisted content creation are changing the playing field considerably. So, writers who adapt to these trends will position themselves for greater earnings and job opportunities.

Pricing trends to take note

• January saw the highest closed price per task ($200), a sign of strong demand at the start of the year.

• December had the lowest assigned price ($187), probably due to increased competition among freelancers.

• February remained stable, which ensures that there’s a steady stream of task postings and earnings.

Our analysis is based on our posted tasks data from the following categories: Copywriting or Editing Services, Social Media Online Support, and Translation / Transcription.

What you need to get started

One of the best things about how to make money freelance writing is that you don’t need much to begin. If you have a computer, internet access, and a strong command of language, you’re already set. That said, these essential skills can set you up for success. examples:

Essential skills

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Strong writing and grammar skills

To get paid to write, you need more than just a love for words. No matter the niche, good writing starts with solid grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. Honing your ability to write in an engaging and professional tone will help set yourself apart.

Good interpersonal skills

Writing isn’t always a solo job. Many writers work with editors, designers, and social media teams, especially in copywriting and content marketing. Some jobs or gigs will also require you to conduct interviews. Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate productively can lead to better opportunities.

Research and fact-checking abilities

Misinformation can ruin credibility. So, whether you’re writing blog posts or technical articles, always verify facts and cross-check sources. Reliable research ensures accuracy and helps build trust with your audience.

Adaptability to different writing styles and tones

Not all writing sounds and reads the same. A brand’s tone differs from a personal blog, and a news article isn’t written like a product description. The ability to switch between styles makes you a more versatile and in-demand writer.

Time management and meeting deadlines

Write-ups often have deadlines. Whether it’s a one-off project or ongoing client work, delivering on time is crucial. Planning ahead, prioritizing tasks, and managing workload effectively will keep clients happy and income steady.

Basic digital literacy 

Most writing work happens online. You’ll need to navigate word processors, cloud-based collaboration tools like Google Workspace, and content management systems like WordPress. Being tech-savvy makes writing, editing, and publishing much easier. It also makes you a catch for remote teams.

Tools and equipment 

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Computer or laptop

To make money as a writer, you need the right tools to work efficiently. A reliable laptop or desktop is a must for drafting, editing, and submitting work. Choose a device that runs smoothly and can handle writing software without lag.

Reliable internet connection

A strong internet connection is crucial for researching, communicating with clients, and submitting work on time. It also ensures access to cloud-based tools for storage and collaboration. 

Word processing software

Writers rely on tools like Microsoft Word or Google Docs for drafting and formatting. Google Docs is especially useful for real-time collaboration and automatic backups. Pick software that fits your workflow and is compatible with client preferences at the same time.

Writing aids and tools

Certain tools can improve your writing quality and efficiency. For instance, you can use Grammarly and Hemingway Editor to refine grammar and readability, while SEO tools such as Ahrefs and SurferSEO will help to optimize your content. You can also look into plagiarism checkers to ensure your work’s originality.

Finding your niche and creating a portfolio

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Identifying your strengths and interests

To make money online by writing, you need to find your niche. The right niche aligns with your strengths, interests, and expertise, making it easier to secure work. If you’re unsure, experiment with different writing styles to see what suits you best.

But take note that some niches are more profitable than others. Content writing, copywriting, and SEO writing are in high demand, while technical writing and grant writing require expert knowledge. Creative writing, journalism, and ghostwriting offer flexibility but often require strong networking and self-promotion.

Choosing a niche will also help you focus your efforts and attract the right clients. Whether you prefer persuasive sales copy, informative guides, or storytelling, refining your niche makes you more competitive. Specializing can also lead to higher rates and long-term success.

Building your portfolio

To land clients and prove your expertise to them, you’re gonna need a strong portfolio. After all, without samples, it’s hard to convince potential clients to hire you. It should showcase your writing style, versatility, and ability to meet different content needs. 

The best way to build a portfolio is to create a personal website or publish work on platforms like Medium or LinkedIn. There are also free portfolio-creation platforms like Copyfolio and Clippings.com where you can build professional-looking custom pages.

If you’re starting out, write sample pieces in your chosen niche, contribute guest posts, or take small projects to gain experience. A mix of blog posts, product descriptions, and research articles can demonstrate your adaptability.

Client testimonials also add to your credibility, so add positive reviews from past clients or editors when you already have some. As you gain experience, update your portfolio with stronger samples and higher-profile projects.

How to determine your rates and price your services

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Figuring out how much to charge to make money online as a writer can be tricky. Charge too little, and you’ll struggle to make a sustainable income. Charge too much, and you might scare off potential clients. Here are some tips on pricing your writing services effectively.

Factors to consider

Experience and expertise

Writers with more experience and a strong portfolio can charge higher rates. Beginners may start lower to gain credibility but should increase rates as they build testimonials and published work. A new writer might earn $30,000 to $40,000 a year, while a seasoned copywriter or technical writer can earn over $50,000 a year.

Complexity and length of the project

Not all writing projects require the same effort. Technical, legal, or medical content commands higher rates than casual blog posts. Writers may charge per hour ($60 to $100) for research-heavy assignments or per project.

Client’s budget and industry standards

Knowing what clients typically pay helps you set realistic rates. Low-budget clients like small businesses and startups might offer $0.03 to $0.06 per word. Mid-tier to high-end clients can offer $0.07 to $1 per word.

Time spent on the project 

Consider the full scope of work, including research, writing, editing, and client communication. For example, a 10-hour project at $40 per hour results in a $400 fee. Note that fast turnarounds or rush jobs can justify the premium pricing.

Pricing models you can offer

There’s no single way to get paid to write in the US but here are some pricing models you can adopt:

Hourly rate 

An hourly rate works best for projects with unclear scopes or ongoing work. It’s common in corporate writing, consulting, and ghostwriting, where word count varies. Rates range from $30 to $50 per hour for beginners to $50 to $200+ for experienced writers.

Per-word rate

Charging per word is standard in journalism and blogging. Beginners may start at $0.03 to $0.06 per word, while expert writers in niche fields earn $0.07 to $0.20 or more. This means that a 1,000-word article at $0.10 per word would bring in $100.

Per-project rate

A per-project rate is best for assignments with clear deliverables. This pricing includes research, writing, and revisions in one set fee. Writers might charge $150 to $800 for a long-form article or $5,000 to $100,000 for a ghostwritten book.

Retainer agreements

Retainers guarantee ongoing work and a stable income. Clients pay a monthly fee for a set number of articles or hours. For example, a writer might earn $1,500 per month for four blog posts at $375 each.

How to calculate your profit margins as a writer 

If you’re new to blog writing and earning money from writing, it’s important to have a way to track your profits. A simple formula you can use is:

Using this formula, suppose that you earn $2,500 per month from writing but spend $500 on tools, internet, and taxes—your profit is going to be $2,000. Understanding your expenses helps you set competitive rates and ensure a sustainable income.

How to price your services competitively

Pricing your work right means staying competitive without selling yourself short. Here’s how to set rates that ensure fair pay:

• Research market rates. Check freelance writing platforms and industry reports to see what others charge.

• Avoid undercharging. Low rates may attract clients who don’t value quality writing.

• Justify your pricing. Highlight your expertise, SEO skills, or fast turnaround times.

• Offer pricing tiers. Provide packages for different word counts and services.

Types of writing services you can offer

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Content writing for websites and blogs

Businesses and brands constantly need fresh content for their websites, including blog posts, articles, and travel pieces. Writers in this field can earn between $150 to $800 per article, depending on expertise, subject complexity, and word count.

Copywriting

Copywriting is all about persuasion. It involves writing product descriptions, sales pages, and email marketing campaigns that drive conversions. A skilled copywriter can make anywhere from $40 to $150 per hour, depending on the scope and difficulty of the project.

Social media content creation

Brands and influencers rely on engaging posts to grow their audience. Services include LinkedIn profile writing, Instagram captions, Twitter threads, and even YouTube or TikTok scripts. Writers can charge $500 to $5,000+ per campaign or offer monthly packages starting at $500.

Technical writing

Technical writing involves simplifying complex topics into clear, structured content. It’s essential for industries like IT, healthcare, and engineering and some types of work you could be handling are manuals, reports, and proposals. Rates range from $60 to $100 per hour or $2,000+ per project.

Editing and proofreading

Polishing content is just as important as writing it. Businesses and authors usually look for experts in copyediting and proofreading. Meanwhile, students can also ask for help in writing or refining their resumes. Editors usually charge $25 to $75 per hour, with larger projects priced at $100 or more.

Creative writing

Creative writing focuses on storytelling, emotions, and artistic expression. Writers can make money writing short stories for literary magazines, self-publish books, or novels. Self-published authors on Amazon Kindle and Wattpad can even earn $1,000–$100,000+ annually. So, if you're wondering, "Can I make money from writing a book?", the answer is yes.

How to market your errand running services and find clients

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To earn money online as a writer, you need more than just strong writing skills—you also have to market yourself effectively. Clients won’t come knocking unless they know you exist. Here’s a mix of online and offline strategies you can try out:

Freelance platforms

Freelance and side hustle sites make it easy to find paid writing gigs. Airtasker, for one, lets clients post writing tasks they need help with and freelancers can bid with their rates. It’s a quick way to land projects. There are also other platforms that offer writing job opportunities, like Upwork and Fiverr.

LinkedIn networking and job postings

A well-optimized LinkedIn profile can help you attract business clients. Use keywords like “freelance blog writer” or “copywriter for hire” in your bio, display writing samples, and engage with potential clients by commenting on their posts. Regularly applying to freelance job postings and sending direct pitches to businesses can also lead to long-term contracts.

Content marketing and blogging

Writing about industry trends, content marketing, or SEO helps establish your expertise online. Blogging or even vlogging about topics like "How to boost sales with strong website content" can attract potential clients searching for a skilled writer. Add a well-placed call-to-action (CTA) to your content and you can turn readers into paying clients.

Building a website

A professional website can also act as your digital portfolio. It should include writing samples, client testimonials, and clear contact details. Platforms like WordPress, Wix, or Medium allow you to showcase your skills without much technical knowledge.

Networking with local businesses and organizations

Many small businesses need content but don’t know where to find writers. Reach out to local cafes, law firms, and agencies with your updated CV and personalized cover letter. You can also attend networking events and partner with web designers or marketers to have as many referrals as possible.

Word-of-mouth referrals

Remember: happy clients are your best advertisements. Ask for testimonials, offer referral discounts, and stay in touch through LinkedIn or email. Delivering quality work and exceeding expectations will make clients eager to recommend you.

Find writing jobs that fit your skills on Airtasker

There’s never been a better time to make money writing, and Airtasker is here to help you find writing jobs that match your skills. From copywriting to creative storytelling, you can land gigs that fit your niche and expertise while working on your own schedule. 

Get direct access to clients and start writing your way to success. Sign up and become a Tasker to find your next writing job today.