Freelancing Writing Jobs That Pay You Well For Your Words

Freelance writing is a flexible way to earn money, with average annual earnings of $66,500. Writers can specialize in niches like technical writing, copywriting, or medical writing to increase income, with top freelancers making over $10,000/month. Beginners often start at $0.05–$0.20 per word, while experts in high-demand fields charge $0.50–$1.00+ per word.

Here’s how to get started:

• Build a portfolio: Create 2–3 writing samples in your niche.
• Use platforms: Start on sites like Upwork, Fiverr, or LinkedIn.
• Find clients: Pitch to businesses, use job boards, and network.
• Set rates: Charge per word, per project, or offer monthly retainers.

High-paying niches include technical writing, copywriting, and financial writing, with annual incomes ranging from $70,000 to $100,000. Tools like Grammarly and Google Docs can help you improve your work, while platforms like Medium or Clippings.me showcase your portfolio.

Freelance writing offers remote work, flexible hours, and opportunities to grow your income. Start by focusing on a specific niche, refining your skills, and consistently pitching to clients.

5 BEST Types of Freelance Writing Jobs for Beginner Writers

How to Start as a Freelance Writer

Starting a freelance writing career doesn’t require years of experience - just a clear plan to showcase your skills and build credibility. Whether you’re transitioning from another career or looking for extra income, you can start earning from your writing in just a few weeks.

The best freelance writers focus on three key areas: building a strong portfolio, using effective tools and platforms, and creating a professional online presence. By following a structured approach, you can avoid common pitfalls and start attracting paying clients more quickly. Let’s dive into how to create an impressive portfolio, even if you’re starting from scratch.

How to Create a Writing Portfolio With No Experience

If you don’t have professional writing samples yet, you can create a portfolio by producing spec clips - unpaid writing samples that demonstrate your abilities. These examples help potential clients see your skills and give you something tangible to share during pitches.

First, decide on your writing niche. Are you interested in blog posts, email campaigns, technical writing, or creative content? Once you’ve chosen, create 2-3 niche-specific samples. As freelance writing expert Colleen Welsch puts it:

"At a high level, you're going to create or reuse three pieces of content that show off your writing skills in a particular niche, then post them somewhere on the internet where potential clients can find them."

Here are some ways to develop your portfolio samples:

• Write guest posts for websites in your niche.
• Create mock pieces by interviewing local businesses or covering community events.
• Draft affiliate marketing articles to highlight your adaptability.
• Pitch story ideas to blogs or online publications to practice writing proposals.
• Write spec articles on topics you’re passionate about to showcase your expertise.

Store your samples in a Google Docs folder or as PDFs for easy sharing. Over time, aim to build a portfolio with 6-10 samples that highlight a variety of writing styles and topics.

You can also self-publish on platforms like Medium to create a professional-looking collection of work that’s easily accessible to potential clients.

Basic Tools and Websites for New Writers

Starting out doesn’t mean spending a fortune on tools. Some free or low-cost options can help you get started:

• Grammarly for grammar and spelling checks.
• Google Docs for writing and sharing your work.

When it’s time to find clients, these platforms can be helpful:

• Upwork: Great for structured opportunities, especially in technical, UX, or business writing.
• Fiverr: Ideal if you can package your services into clear, easy-to-understand offerings.
• LinkedIn: Perfect for showcasing your skills and networking with potential clients.
• Job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and the ProBlogger Job Board regularly list freelance writing gigs.
• FlexJobs: Focuses on remote and flexible roles, though it requires a subscription ($9.95/week, $24.95/month, $39.95/three months, or $59.95/year).

For building your portfolio, platforms like Clippings.me and Contently let you create simple, professional showcases for your work.

Don’t underestimate the value of networking. Join online communities on Reddit, Quora, and LinkedIn, and subscribe to newsletters that share curated writing opportunities. Once you’ve got the right tools and platforms, the next step is to create a strong online presence.

How to Set Up Your Online Profile

A polished online profile is essential for turning your efforts into paid work. Start by creating a professional LinkedIn profile and a personal website to act as your digital portfolio.

On LinkedIn, use a professional headshot and include “freelance writer” along with your niche in your headline. Write a summary that highlights your skills and any relevant experience. For your personal website, platforms like WordPress offer robust customization for larger sites, while Wix is a simpler option if you want to get started quickly. Your website should include:

• A home page explaining what you do.
• An about page that shares your background and builds trust.
• A services/rates page outlining what you offer.
• A portfolio page featuring your best writing samples.
• A contact page so clients can easily get in touch.

Keep your profiles updated with new projects and testimonials to show that you’re active and continuously improving in your field.

High-Paying Freelance Writing Types

If you're serious about increasing your freelance writing income, it’s important to know which niches offer the best pay. Rates can vary widely depending on your experience and specialty. While beginners might earn between $0.03 and $0.06 per word, writers with expertise in specialized fields can command rates up to 22% higher. Companies often prefer specialists because they trust them to deliver content that aligns with their industry needs.

Writing Specialties That Pay the Most

Technical writing is among the most lucrative options. Writers in this niche often work on white papers, ebooks, and other detailed documents, earning anywhere from $0.25 to $1.00 or more per word. Skilled white paper writers can make up to $15,000 per project, with some charging $1,000 or more per page.

Copywriting also offers excellent earning potential. Freelance copywriters earn an average annual income of about $73,000. Specific projects like emails can pay $25–$300, while web copy ranges from $100–$500, and landing pages can bring in $300–$1,500. On platforms like Upwork, sales and landing page writers often set their rates between $100 and $250 per project.

Medical and health writing stands out for its high pay due to the specialized knowledge required. Writers in this field typically earn around $0.15 per word, with experienced professionals making approximately $90 per hour or $75,000 annually.

Financial writing is another well-paying niche, where accuracy and expertise are essential. The median rate is $0.18 per word, with hourly earnings averaging $85 and annual incomes nearing $70,000.

Here’s a quick comparison of top-paying writing niches:

Other lucrative niches include grant writing, which offers steady income with average annual earnings of $48,000. Case study writing can bring in as much as $78,000 a year, while ghostwriting covers a wide range, from $20,000 to over $100,000 annually, depending on the project and client relationships.

Emerging fields like AI writing and blockchain content also present exciting opportunities. With the AI market expected to hit $407 billion by 2027, writers who can simplify complex topics may charge $150–$250 per hour. Similarly, blockchain and Web3 writing is growing fast, with some writers earning $100–$200 per hour as the global blockchain market approaches $94 billion by 2027.

How to Pick Your Writing Specialty

Choosing the right niche is a mix of passion, skills, and market demand. As the saying goes, "The money is where your enthusiasm is". Start by listing your strengths and topics you enjoy writing about.

Evaluate your existing knowledge. Do you have experience in industries like healthcare, technology, or finance? If so, you already have a head start. Use your portfolio and client feedback to identify areas where you excel.

Next, research market demand. Check job boards like Upwork, Indeed, and LinkedIn to see which niches are actively hiring freelance writers. This will give you an idea of where opportunities are most abundant.

Be mindful of competition. If a niche feels overcrowded, you might need to put in extra effort to stand out. On the flip side, emerging fields like AI writing might have less competition but require you to quickly learn new skills.

Talking to other writers in your desired niche can also provide valuable insights. Networking through online communities, virtual events, or LinkedIn can help you understand client expectations and avoid common pitfalls.

It’s also smart to consider long-term trends. For example, the global e-commerce market is projected to reach $6.9 trillion by 2025, making e-commerce copywriting a stable choice. Similarly, digital marketing is expected to grow to $786 billion by 2026, ensuring ongoing demand for marketing writers. The e-learning market, set to hit $457.8 billion by 2026, also offers opportunities for educational content creators.

Finally, align your niche with your career goals. If you’re aiming for a consulting business, business writing might be a good fit. For those who enjoy creativity, healthcare storytelling or fintech content marketing could be ideal.

Focusing on a specific niche allows you to target the right clients and charge premium rates compared to generalists. Dan Tabaran, Marketing Head at Influencity, emphasizes the importance of building a specialized portfolio:

"Building a strong portfolio that showcases your expertise in your chosen niche is crucial. Include case studies, samples, or testimonials that highlight your ability to deliver results for clients within that specific area. Networking within the industry, attending relevant events, and joining professional associations can also help you stay informed and connect with potential clients or collaborators".

Remember, your niche isn’t set in stone. Many successful writers start in one area and expand into related fields as they gain experience and build client relationships. The key is to start with a clear focus and grow from there.

Next, we’ll cover how to set your pricing to reflect your expertise and value.

How Freelance Writers Get Paid

Figuring out how to price your work and selecting dependable payment methods are key steps in creating a successful freelance writing career. The way you set your rates can directly affect your income, and choosing the right payment methods ensures you get paid on time. These choices are the foundation of a writing business that rewards your skills and effort.

4 Ways to Price Your Writing Services

Freelance writers use different pricing models, and the one you choose can depend on the type of project, your experience, and your relationship with the client. Here are the most common approaches:

• Per-word pricing: This is the go-to method for many writers. It’s straightforward - clients pay based on the number of words in a project. For example, 34% of freelance writers charge between $0.05 and $0.20 per word. Beginners often start at the lower end, but experienced writers in specialized fields can earn $0.50 or more per word.
• Per-project pricing: This method works well for clearly defined assignments. It includes factors like research, revisions, and other project-specific needs. For instance, seasoned writers might charge a flat $400 for a 1,000-word article, regardless of how long it takes to complete.
• Hourly rates: This option is ideal for projects with uncertain scopes. It ensures you’re compensated fairly if the work expands beyond initial expectations.
• Monthly retainers: Retainers are a reliable way to secure steady income. Clients pay a fixed monthly fee for a set amount of work, such as regular blog posts or newsletters. This setup is best for long-term clients who need consistent content.

Many successful writers use a mix of these methods, tailoring their approach to the project and client. Next, let’s look at what you might charge for a 500-word article.

What to Charge for 500 Words

The price for a 500-word article can vary a lot, depending on your experience, the niche, and the client’s budget.

• Beginner writers: If you’re just starting, rates might range from $5 to $15 per article. While this helps build your portfolio, it’s important not to stay at these rates for too long. Freelance writing expert Elna Cain advises:

  "You can't make a living at $.05/word. You have to grow your business so that you can start making a living as a writer."

• Experienced writers: Those with more experience often charge significantly more. Rates of $0.50 per word are common, which translates to $250 for a 500-word piece. Content marketing clients may pay even higher - between $0.75 and $1.00 per word - making a 500-word article worth $375 to $500.
• Specialized niches: Writers in technical or highly specialized fields can command premium rates. For example, technical writers earned an average salary of $81,470 in 2021, far above the average writer’s income of $69,510.

When setting your rate, don’t just think about word count. Consider the time needed for research, writing, editing, and client communication. Also, factor in taxes - many freelancers set aside about 25% of their earnings for tax purposes. Complexity, deadlines, and whether the client provides an outline or expects you to create one all influence pricing. For high-quality content, rates between $100 and $200 for a 500-word article are reasonable.

How Writers Receive Their Payments

Once you’ve set your rates, it’s time to decide how to get paid. Reliable payment methods are essential to ensure you’re compensated for your work.

• PayPal: This is a favorite among freelancers. It’s widely accepted, processes payments quickly, and offers features like buyer and seller protection. Its currency conversion tools are especially helpful for international clients.
• Direct bank transfers: These are great for domestic clients and larger projects. ACH transfers in the U.S. are secure and often free, though they can take a few days to process. Wire transfers are faster but come with fees, making them better for high-value work.
• Freelancing platform payment systems: Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr handle payments through escrow systems. This protects both parties but usually involves processing fees of 2.9% to 5%.
• Digital payment apps: Apps like Venmo, Zelle, or Cash App are increasingly popular for smaller projects or repeat clients. They offer instant transfers but may lack some business features.

To avoid payment issues, set clear terms before starting a project. Many writers require 25% to 50% upfront for new clients, with the balance due upon completion. For ongoing work, net-15 or net-30 terms (giving clients 15 or 30 days to pay) are common.

Always send professional invoices that detail payment terms, accepted methods, and project specifics. Follow up promptly on overdue payments, and if necessary, enforce late fees. Clear communication and strong client relationships can help minimize payment problems.

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Simple Writing Jobs for Beginners

Starting a freelance writing career doesn’t require fancy degrees or years of experience. In fact, many successful writers began with simple projects that helped them build their skills, confidence, and portfolios. These entry-level opportunities are a great way to get your foot in the door and start earning as a freelance writer.

Easiest Writing Jobs for New Writers

Blog posts are one of the easiest ways to dive into freelance writing. If you’ve spent time reading blogs, you already have a sense of how they work. This familiarity makes it easier to create engaging content right from the start. Plus, small businesses often need help with blog content since their owners are busy running day-to-day operations. This creates a perfect opportunity for new writers to step in and assist.

Another beginner-friendly option is writing product descriptions. E-commerce businesses are always looking for clear, concise descriptions that highlight their products’ features without requiring in-depth research. It’s a straightforward task that can help you get comfortable with writing for a professional audience.

Business emails and newsletters are also a great starting point. Many business owners recognize the power of email marketing but struggle to write compelling messages. By offering to craft email campaigns or newsletters, you can provide a valuable service while gaining experience.

Local businesses often need content for brochures, newsletters, or promotional materials. Reaching out to nearby companies and offering to improve their content can help you secure your first projects. These assignments are typically small and manageable, making them ideal for beginners.

Finally, list articles and how-to guides are excellent choices for new writers. These formats have a clear structure, making them easier to write. For example, topics like "10 Tips for Better Customer Service" or "How to Choose the Right Insurance Policy" allow you to focus on organizing information rather than coming up with complex ideas.

Once you’ve identified these simple writing opportunities, it’s time to sharpen your skills with free resources.

Free Ways to Improve Your Writing

You don’t need to spend money on expensive courses to become a better writer. Plenty of free resources can help you develop your craft and boost your confidence.

Start by making writing a daily habit. Platforms like 750 Words encourage regular journaling, which can help you build fluency and establish a routine. The more you write, the more comfortable you’ll become.

Take advantage of free online courses. Websites like Udemy and OpenLearn offer classes designed to improve your writing. For instance, OpenLearn’s course "Start Writing Fiction" has received positive feedback. In January 2025, Paul Taylor, a student of the course, shared that it "introduces essential techniques of fiction writing with assignments to practice them."

Use free grammar and editing tools to refine your work. Grammarly is a popular option for catching spelling and grammar mistakes, while other tools can help with rephrasing or finding synonyms.

If you’re feeling stuck, AI-powered brainstorming tools can spark new ideas or help outline drafts. Mind mapping tools like MindMeister are also useful for organizing your thoughts before you start writing.

Lastly, reading widely is one of the best ways to improve your skills. Exploring different styles and techniques can inspire your own writing and help you grow as a writer.

Once you’ve built up your skills, you’ll feel more prepared to start pitching to clients.

How to Find Clients With No Experience

Finding your first clients takes effort and strategy, but it’s absolutely doable - even without prior experience. Here are some practical ways to get started:

• Job boards: Platforms like ProBlogger and Upwork are great places to find entry-level writing gigs. Many successful freelancers, such as Elna Cain (founder of ElnaCain.com), started their careers by applying to job postings. Having sample work or testimonials can help you stand out.
• Cold pitching: If you notice a company with an outdated blog or weak content, consider reaching out with a tailored proposal. A personalized pitch that suggests specific improvements will often get more attention than a generic offer.
• Social media: Platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter are excellent for networking and connecting with potential clients. Building a personal brand on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or even YouTube can also attract opportunities over time.
• Leverage your network: Don’t overlook the people you already know. Friends, family, or former colleagues might need writing help - or they might know someone who does. Letting them know about your services can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Word of mouth: Once you’ve completed a few projects, happy clients can become your best advocates. Positive referrals can open doors to new opportunities and help you grow your business.

Success in freelance writing doesn’t happen overnight, but with persistence and proactive outreach, you can start building a solid foundation. These beginner-friendly tasks are just the first step toward higher-paying projects and a rewarding freelance career.

eSideHustles Writing Resources

eSideHustles is your go-to guide for launching and growing a freelance writing career in the United States.

What's in the Writing Collection

The eSideHustles writing section brings together everything you need to kickstart and grow your freelance writing journey. From curated job boards to portfolio-building tools and step-by-step guides, it’s all organized for easy access.

For job boards, the collection highlights platforms like Upwork. While often debated, Upwork remains a solid starting point for remote writing opportunities, especially in niches like technical writing, UX, or business writing. For example, Amy Suto earned over $300,000 early in her career using Upwork, showing the platform’s potential when approached strategically.

If you’re just starting out, budget-friendly options like Writers Work are included. The collection also examines Fiverr, which rewards writers who can deliver high-volume, repeatable services quickly - perfect for those offering standardized packages.

But it doesn’t stop at job boards. The resources guide you in building an online presence and finding clients. Learn how to optimize your LinkedIn profile with keywords like "freelance writer", "ghostwriter", and "remote writing jobs" to uncover hidden opportunities. Tutorials walk you through creating your first portfolio and negotiating rates confidently, all tailored for the US market.

This collection bridges the gap between setting up and earning a steady income as a freelance writer.

How eSideHustles Helps Freelance Writers

eSideHustles goes beyond just tools and platforms - it provides practical, actionable resources designed to propel your writing career forward.

Unlike resources that focus heavily on theory, eSideHustles prioritizes hands-on strategies. It emphasizes that a successful freelance writing career comes from consistent effort and smart choices.

The platform specifically targets high-quality job sources and strategic applications, helping you build a sustainable, high-earning career. Its US-focused approach addresses key aspects like payment methods, tax considerations, client expectations, and American business culture.

Additionally, eSideHustles acknowledges that freelance writing can provide a steady and predictable income, unlike less consistent ventures like blogging, novel writing, or creating infoproducts.

Best of all, access to eSideHustles is completely free. With over 370 curated resources available at no cost, the platform ensures that quality tools are accessible to everyone. Founder Odeh Ahwal created the directory based on his own experiences with online income challenges, ensuring affordability isn’t a barrier.

The community aspect adds even more value. You can share useful resources, connect with other writers, and stay informed about new opportunities - ensuring the directory evolves with real user contributions.

Whether you’re tackling your first small project or aiming to hit six figures annually, eSideHustles provides the tools and guidance to help you succeed. With its writing collection, you have a central hub to transition from learning the basics to building a thriving freelance business. Take advantage of these curated resources to turn your writing skills into a rewarding career.

Start Making Money From Your Writing Today

Ready to start earning as a freelance writer? You’ve explored high-paying niches, pricing strategies, and beginner-friendly opportunities - now it’s time to put that knowledge into action.

Choose a niche that aligns with your skills and interests to attract the right clients and maximize your earnings. Beginners can expect rates of $0.05–$0.20 per word, while experienced specialists often charge $0.50–$1.00+ per word [17].

Create a small portfolio with 2–3 samples tailored to your niche. Platforms like Medium or a personal blog are great for showcasing your work and building credibility.

Next, establish your professional presence on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. These sites connect you with clients and often lead to higher-paying opportunities as you gain experience.

Once your niche and portfolio are ready, aim to send 5–10 personalized pitches daily. This consistent effort helps you stand out in a crowded market and increases your chances of landing gigs.

The demand for quality content continues to grow, offering plenty of opportunities for writers. Many successful freelancers started by pitching regularly, networking with industry professionals, and continuously improving their craft [17].

To accelerate your journey, take advantage of free resources from eSideHustles. With over 370 curated tools, including job leads, portfolio tips, and industry insights designed for the US market, you’ll have everything you need to move from learning to earning.

Get started today by refining your niche, publishing a sample article, and setting up your freelance profile. Freelance writing not only provides the flexibility to work from anywhere but also offers a path to building a steady income. The first step is taking action and staying consistent.

Your writing has value - now’s the time to turn it into a rewarding career.

FAQs

How can I choose the right writing niche to earn more as a freelance writer?

To tap into a profitable writing niche and boost your income, aim for areas that combine high demand with your personal interests or expertise. Some of the top-paying fields include finance, technology, B2B SaaS, and cryptocurrency, as these industries often need writers with specialized knowledge and are willing to pay premium rates.

You can refine your niche even further by diving into a sub-niche like personal finance, cybersecurity, or investment strategies. Having a focused specialty not only increases your value to clients but also opens doors to better-paying projects. The key is to pick a niche you're genuinely passionate about and eager to explore - your interest and knowledge will come through in your work, making you stand out in the competitive writing market.

What are the best ways to find freelance writing clients when you're just starting out with no experience?

Starting out as a freelance writer without any experience might seem daunting, but there are practical steps you can take to get your foot in the door:

• Create a portfolio: Even if you’re new, you can put together a few sample pieces to highlight your writing skills. These could be mock articles, blog posts, or essays on topics you care about. Think of it as your personal showcase.
• Explore freelancing platforms: Sites like Upwork and Fiverr can help you land entry-level gigs. They’re great places to gain experience and start building a client list.
• Reach out and pitch: Connect with local businesses, startups, or even your social media network. A well-placed pitch or recommendation can open doors to exciting opportunities.

The key is to stay consistent. Keep improving your craft, promote yourself, and focus on delivering high-quality work. Over time, your reputation will grow, and so will your client base.

How do I set my rates as a beginner freelance writer, and when should I raise them?

As a new freelance writer, a reasonable starting point for your rates is between $0.15 and $0.25 per word. This range helps you stay competitive while also recognizing the value of your time and effort. The exact rate can depend on factors like your current skill level and the complexity of the project.

As you gain experience, build a strong portfolio, and feel more confident in your abilities, it's a good idea to adjust your rates. A common approach is to reassess your pricing every 6 to 12 months or when you take on new clients. When considering an increase, think about the project’s complexity, your growing expertise, and market trends. Typically, raising your rates by 10–15% is reasonable and often accepted by clients as your skills and experience grow.

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