Freelance Rate Guide
Copywriting pricing

Freelance copywriter rates: how to price writing that sells.

Copywriting rates should reflect conversion impact, not just page length. This guide helps you calculate a baseline hourly floor, then convert it into practical project and retainer pricing.

Calculate your copywriting floor View writer benchmarks

Copywriter pricing basics

Profitable copywriting rates include research and strategy time, not just drafting. If your quote ignores discovery and revisions, margins disappear fast.

  • Project pricing often fits copywriting better than pure hourly billing.
  • Conversion-focused niches usually support higher rates than generalist writing.
  • Scope clarity on revisions and research protects your effective hourly margin.
## Start with a loaded hourly baseline Good copywriting pricing starts with your business math. If your quote only reflects writing time, you miss discovery calls, audience research, competitive teardown work, and revision management. Use the calculator to set a floor rate that covers the full delivery cycle.

Freelance Copywriter Rate Calculator

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Most freelancers bill 25-35 hours per week after admin and sales time.

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Software, insurance, hardware, accounting, coworking, etc.

Your loaded rate breakdown
Desired take-home income $80,000
Self-employment taxes (est.) +$24,000
Vacation and sick-time buffer +$6,667
Business expenses +$12,000
Annual billable hours 1,440
Minimum hourly rate
$85/hr
Recommended rate (+20% margin)
$102/hr
Day rate (8hr)
$816
Week rate
$4,080

These rates are estimates. Always consult a qualified accountant for your specific tax situation.

## Pricing models that work for copywriting Most copywriting offers fit one of these structures: - Fixed [project pricing](/freelance-project-rate-calculator) for website copy, launch assets, and funnel builds. - Hourly blocks for light revision support and messaging consulting. - Monthly retainers for ongoing content and campaign optimization. Project pricing is usually easier for clients and better for freelancers when scope is clear. Keep revision limits explicit and price rush deadlines separately.

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## What should increase your rates Raise pricing when the brief requires deep positioning work, multiple stakeholder approvals, or direct conversion accountability. Copy that influences revenue deserves stronger rates than generic editorial support. Your rate should also move up when clients expect strategic recommendations, not just words on a page. The more decision-making and risk reduction you provide, the less your offer behaves like commodity writing. ## Related pricing pages Pair this guide with [freelance writer rates](/freelance-writer-rates) for broader benchmarks, [freelance SEO consultant rates](/freelance-seo-consultant-rates) when content strategy overlaps search, and [how to set your freelance rate](/how-to-set-freelance-rate) for negotiation scripts.

Frequently asked questions

How much should a freelance copywriter charge per hour?

Freelance copywriter hourly rates vary by niche and conversion responsibility. Messaging tied to revenue outcomes, such as sales pages and email funnels, usually supports higher rates than general content production.

Should copywriters charge hourly, per word, or per project?

Per-project pricing is often strongest for copywriting because clients buy outcomes, not word count. Hourly works for revisions and advisory support, while per-word pricing can fit high-volume editorial workflows.

What should be included in copywriting rates?

Rates should include discovery, research, positioning, drafting, revision rounds, and client communication. Charging only for writing time can leave high-value strategy work unpaid.

When do freelance copywriters raise rates?

Raise rates when your pipeline improves, projects close quickly, and your work contributes directly to conversions or sales. Better proof of impact usually supports higher pricing.