Per-Word vs. Per-Hour: Which Pays Writers More in 2025?

Freelance writers often struggle with one big question: Should you charge per word or per hour? While both pricing models have their advantages, choosing the right one can significantly impact your earnings. In 2025, as more platforms offer both options, understanding which pays more is crucial.

This post will compare per-word and per-hour rates using real-world examples from platforms like Scripted and Upwork, breaking down the math to show which model benefits different types of writers. Plus, we’ll share a resource for landing high-paying per-word gigs.

The Case for Per-Word Rates

Per-word pricing is the industry standard for content mills, magazines, and many direct client assignments. With this model, you get paid based on output, which means the faster you write, the more you earn.

Pros of Per-Word Pricing

• Higher Earnings for Fast Writers – If you can write 500 words in an hour at $0.25/word, that’s $125 per hour. Compare that to an hourly rate of $30–$50, and you can see why many writers prefer per-word pricing.
• Predictable Income – You know exactly how much you’ll make before you start, making financial planning easier.
• Encourages Efficiency – Writers who can research and write quickly without sacrificing quality benefit the most.

Cons of Per-Word Pricing

• Revisions Can Cut Into Profits – If a client requests extensive edits, you’re essentially working for free beyond the initial draft.
• Scope Creep Risks – Some clients might expect additional research, SEO optimization, or interviews without increasing the rate.

Where to Find Per-Word Gigs

Platforms like Scripted offer writers rates ranging from $0.06 to $0.20 per word. But if you’re looking for even better-paying opportunities, check out this curated list of per-word writing jobs at Writing Jobs Live.

The Case for Per-Hour Rates

Hourly pricing is popular on freelancer marketplaces like Upwork, where clients prefer tracking the time spent on projects rather than paying per word.

Pros of Per-Hour Pricing

• Guaranteed Pay for Your Time – Whether you’re researching, writing, or revising, you get paid for every minute spent.
• Great for Long-Term Clients – Many businesses prefer ongoing relationships with hourly freelancers.
• Flexibility for Slow Writers – If you take longer to craft high-quality content, an hourly rate can prevent you from undervaluing your work.

Cons of Per-Hour Pricing

• Limited Earning Potential Even at a solid rate of $50/hour, you’re capped by the number of hours you can work.
• Requires Time Tracking Many platforms require time-tracking software, which can feel invasive.
• Clients May Negotiate More Some clients expect discounts for longer projects or question the time spent on tasks.

Where to Find Per-Hour Gigs

Upwork offers a range of $15–$50 per hour for freelance writers, depending on experience and niche. Established writers with strong portfolios can command even higher rates. For more insights, see BLS data on writer earnings.

The Math: Which Pays More?

Let’s break it down:

• Per-Word Example: A writer charging $0.25 per word and producing 500 words per hour earns $125 per hour.
• Per-Hour Example: A writer working on Upwork at $40 per hour earns a fixed $40 per hour, regardless of output.

At first glance, per-word pricing seems like the better deal—if you write fast. However, if a project requires deep research and multiple drafts, an hourly rate may be more profitable. A Forbes analysis supports that efficiency drives per-word earnings.

Which Model is Best for You?

The best choice depends on your skills, speed, and preferred work style:

• Fast, experienced writers? Go per word.
• Slow, meticulous writers? Go per hour.
• New freelancers? Start with per-word platforms like Upwork to build a portfolio before negotiating higher hourly rates.

Final Verdict: Per-Word Wins (For Most Writers)

While hourly rates offer stability, per-word pricing often leads to higher earnings for efficient writers. By focusing on speed, quality, and high-paying gigs, you can maximize your freelance income in 2025.

Ready to land high-paying per-word gigs? Check out our latest job listings at Writing Jobs Live and start earning more today! For additional strategies, explore Harvard Business Review’s negotiation tips.