Hiring a professional writer to bring your book to life is a smart move if you have a compelling story or idea but lack the time, writing skill, or experience. But how much does it really cost to have someone write a book for you?
The short answer: It can cost anywhere between $5,000 to $100,000+, depending on the type of book, word count, writer’s experience, and whether you want extras like research, editing, or publishing assistance.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the cost breakdown of hiring a ghostwriter or book writing service, what you’re really paying for, and how to choose the right professional for your project.
Why Hire Someone to Write a Book for You?
Before we break down the pricing, let’s understand why people hire ghostwriters:
- You have a great idea but no writing skills
- You’re a busy entrepreneur, CEO, or public figure
- You want a professional-level manuscript
- You want your story told the right way — efficiently and compellingly
Professional writers know how to structure, pace, and polish your message for maximum impact.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Ghostwriter?
Average Cost Ranges (By Project Type)
| Type of Book | Word Count | Cost Estimate |
| Short eBook | 10,000–20,000 | $2,000 – $8,000 |
| Business Book | 25,000–50,000 | $15,000 – $50,000 |
| Memoir | 50,000–75,000 | $20,000 – $60,000 |
| Full-Length Novel | 70,000–100,000 | $25,000 – $100,000 |
| Celebrity Autobiography | 80,000–120,000 | $75,000 – $250,000+ |
These numbers vary based on the writer’s experience, the topic’s complexity, and how much involvement is required from them.
Factors That Affect Book Writing Costs
1. Word Count
Longer books cost more — it’s that simple. You’re paying per word or per page, so a 100,000-word epic novel will cost more than a 20,000-word how-to guide.
2. Type of Book
- Business books require clarity and industry knowledge.
- Memoirs demand emotional depth and interviewing.
- Novels need creative storytelling, plot development, and character arcs.
- Self-help books may require citations, exercises, and structure planning.
The more complex the book, the higher the fee.
3. Writer’s Experience
Rates vary drastically depending on the writer’s background:
| Writer Level | Per Word | Flat Fee |
| New Freelancer | $0.05 – $0.25 | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| Mid-Level Writer | $0.50 – $1.00 | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Professional Ghostwriter | $1.00 – $3.00 | $25,000 – $100,000+ |
| Celebrity Ghostwriter | $3.00+ | $100,000+ |
A seasoned writer with publishing credits or bestselling titles will charge top dollar.
4. Research Requirements
Does your book involve:
- Industry case studies?
- Historical accuracy?
- Technical material?
- Interviews?
The more research required, the higher the cost.
5. Timeline
If you want the book completed quickly (say, within 1–3 months), expect to pay a rush premium. A longer timeline (6–12 months) may reduce fees.
6. Revisions & Editing
Some ghostwriters include revisions in their package. Others charge per round or by the hour. Expect to budget $500–$5,000 extra for in-depth editing.
7. Publishing Assistance
Some ghostwriters help with:
- Formatting
- Book cover design
- ISBN registration
- Self-publishing
These add-on services come with additional fees.
Common Pricing Models for Book Writing
1. Per Word
Ideal for predictable scope. Most common for experienced ghostwriters.
- Low-end: $0.10–$0.50 per word
- High-end: $1.00–$3.00+ per word
A 60,000-word manuscript at $1/word = $60,000.
2. Per Page
Usually $100–$500 per page (assuming 250–300 words per page)
3. Flat Fee
This is the most common for full-length books. It’s based on:
- Word count
- Genre
- Timeline
- Additional services
Pros: Transparent, easy to budget
Cons: Might cost more if scope changes
4. Hourly Rate
Less common for full books but typical for editing or consultation. Rates range from $50 to $150/hour.
Where Can You Hire a Ghostwriter?
1. Freelance Platforms
- Upwork
- Fiverr
- Reedsy
- Toptal
- PeoplePerHour
Pros: Wide range of prices, easy to compare
Cons: Varying quality, vetting required
2. Professional Ghostwriting Agencies
- Gotham Ghostwriters
- Kevin Anderson & Associates
- Hot Ghost Writer
- The Writers for Hire
Pros: Pre-vetted writers, editing & publishing services
Cons: Higher fees (starting at $20,000+)
3. Author Networking
You can find ghostwriters via:
- Author forums
- Referrals from editors or publishers
What’s Included in the Cost?
Here’s what most ghostwriting packages include:
| Service | Included? |
| Initial Consultation | ✅ |
| Project Outline/Planning | ✅ |
| Interviewing (for memoirs) | ✅ |
| Writing the First Draft | ✅ |
| Revisions (usually 1–3 rounds) | ✅ |
| Final Proofreading | ✅ (sometimes) |
| Publishing Help | ❌ (optional extra) |
| Marketing Support | ❌ (usually not included) |
Always clarify what’s included before signing a contract.
How to Save Money on Book Writing
If your budget is tight, consider these alternatives:
1. Write the First Draft Yourself
You can hire a developmental editor or co-writer to revise and expand your manuscript for less than full ghostwriting costs.
2. Hire a Junior Ghostwriter
Look for rising talent with samples and passion. Many charge $5,000–$15,000.
3. Use AI Writing Tools (With Caution)
Tools like ChatGPT or Jasper can help you brainstorm and structure your book — but you’ll still need a human to polish and refine.
4. Limit the Scope
Instead of a 300-page book, start with a short eBook (15,000–20,000 words) to test the waters.
Sample Book Writing Cost Scenarios
Scenario 1: Entrepreneur’s Business Book
- 40,000 words
- Experienced writer
- Some research required
Estimated Cost: $20,000 – $35,000
Scenario 2: Memoir with Interviews
- 75,000 words
- Includes family interviews and emotional tone
Estimated Cost: $30,000 – $60,000
Scenario 3: Short Self-Help eBook
- 15,000 words
- Minimal research
- New freelancer
Estimated Cost: $2,500 – $5,000
How to Choose the Right Writer
Here are 6 must-ask questions before hiring:
- Can I see samples of your previous work?
- Have you written in my genre or industry?
- What’s your writing process?
- How many revisions are included?
- What’s your timeline and availability?
- What rights will I own when the book is done?
Make sure you get a contract that outlines:
- Ownership rights (you should own 100%)
- Deadlines and deliverables
- Payment structure (installments are common)
❓FAQs
Q1: Do ghostwriters get credit?
No, unless you agree to give them co-author credit. In most cases, you keep 100% authorship.
Q2: Can I pay in installments?
Yes. Most ghostwriters split payments (e.g., 30% upfront, 40% mid-project, 30% on delivery).
Q3: Is it legal to hire a ghostwriter?
Absolutely. Ghostwriting is legal and common in publishing, business, politics, and entertainment.
Q4: What if I’m not happy with the result?
That’s why revisions are built into the process. Check the contract for a refund or rewrite the terms.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Hiring someone to write your book is a valuable investment, not just an expense. If you’re building a brand, preserving your legacy, or aiming for bestseller status, a ghostwriter can turn your idea into a powerful manuscript.
But remember: quality costs money. Like any creative professional, the best ghostwriters command high fees because they deliver high-impact work.
