Ghostwriting Fees: Per Word vs. Per Project – A Complete Guide to Pricing Models for Authors

Hiring a ghostwriter can be a transformative step for authors who want to bring their ideas to life but need professional writing support. Whether it’s a memoir, business book, novel, or any other content, ghostwriters help craft a polished, compelling manuscript while maintaining the author’s voice. But before starting this collaboration, understanding ghostwriting fees and pricing models is critical. The two most common fee structures—per word and per project pricing—each come with advantages and potential drawbacks. This complete guide will explore both models in detail, helping authors make informed decisions and set realistic budgets.

Why Understanding Ghostwriting Fees Matters

Ghostwriting can be a major financial commitment, sometimes costing tens of thousands of dollars for full-length books. Knowing the pricing models ahead of time helps authors:

• Plan their budgets accurately
• Negotiate fairly with ghostwriters
• Understand what services are included
• Avoid unexpected costs
• Set realistic expectations on deliverables and timeline

Overview of Ghostwriting Pricing Models

Ghostwriting fees typically fall into four broad categories:

• Per word pricing
• Per project pricing
• Hourly rates
• Retainer or monthly fees

Among these, per word and per project pricing are the most prevalent for book-length projects. Let’s explore each in depth.

Per Word Pricing Model

How Does Per Word Pricing Work?

In a per word pricing model, ghostwriters charge based on the number of words they write. For example, if the rate is $0.50 per word and the manuscript is 50,000 words, the fee totals $25,000.

Advantages of Per Word Pricing

• Transparency: Authors pay for exactly how much text is produced.
• Scalability: If the manuscript ends up shorter than expected, the author pays less.
• Easier Budget Estimation: If word count goals are clear, authors can roughly estimate total costs.

Disadvantages of Per Word Pricing

• Pressure to Increase Word Count: Ghostwriters may feel incentivized to add fluff or filler.
• Unpredictability: Word count can change significantly during editing and revisions, which can increase the final cost.
• Limited Scope Compensation: This pricing does not always reflect the time spent on research, interviews, revisions, or complex storytelling.

Typical Per Word Rates

Ghostwriting rates per word vary based on experience, genre, and complexity:

• Entry-level: $0.10 – $0.30 per word
• Experienced: $0.30 – $1.00 per word
• Top-tier or specialized: $1.00 – $3.00+ per word

Rates might also vary by niche—business books, memoirs, or technical writing may command different fees.

When Per Word Pricing Makes Sense

• Projects with clear, fixed word counts (e.g., articles, short ebooks)
• Authors wanting direct cost control tied to manuscript length
• Shorter works where scope is well-defined and unlikely to shift

Per Project Pricing Model

How Does Per Project Pricing Work?

In this model, the ghostwriter charges a fixed fee to complete the entire project regardless of word count. For example, an author might pay $30,000 for a full-length book whether it ends up 45,000 or 55,000 words.

Advantages of Per Project Pricing

• Cost Certainty: The total fee is fixed upfront, eliminating surprises.
• Focus on Quality: Ghostwriters prioritize content excellence without worrying about word count inflation.
• Scope Flexibility: Time spent on research, interviews, revisions, or complex storytelling is naturally included.
• Collaborative Focus: Encourages a partnership mindset focused on delivering the best final product.

Disadvantages of Per Project Pricing

• Complex Negotiation: Authors and ghostwriters must clearly define scope and expectations to agree on a fair price.
• Scope Creep Risk: If the project grows significantly, the ghostwriter may need to renegotiate fees.
• Less Transparent Breakdown: Authors may not see a direct correlation between word count and price.

Typical Per Project Fees

The flat fees depend on book length, complexity, and ghostwriter experience:

• Novellas or short books (20,000–40,000 words): $5,000 – $15,000
• Full-length non-fiction or memoirs (50,000–80,000 words): $15,000 – $50,000
• Complex or celebrity projects: $50,000 – $100,000+

For smaller projects like speeches or white papers, fees can range from $500 to $5,000 or more.

When Per Project Pricing Makes Sense

• Full-length books with variable word count
• Projects requiring substantial research and interviews
• Authors who prefer predictable budgeting
• Collaborative projects needing flexibility

 Side-by-Side Comparison: Per Word vs. Per Project Pricing

Aspect	Per Word Pricing	Per Project Pricing
Cost Predictability	Less predictable—depends on final word count	More predictable—fixed upfront fee
Incentive for Length	Possible pressure to increase word count	Focus on quality, not quantity
Flexibility	Limited—extra work may not be compensated	Flexible—scope changes easier to handle
Best For	Shorter, fixed-length projects	Full-length or complex projects
Transparency	Clear cost per word but total can vary	Less transparent on cost breakdown
Budgeting	Easier to estimate per word but can fluctuate	Easier to budget due to fixed fee

Other Important Factors That Affect Ghostwriting Fees

While pricing models are critical, several additional factors influence the total cost of hiring a ghostwriter:

1. Ghostwriter’s Experience and Reputation

Seasoned ghostwriters who have published bestsellers or worked with high-profile clients tend to charge premium fees. Their expertise often guarantees a higher quality product delivered on time.

2. Project Complexity

A memoir involving emotional depth and multiple interviews might cost more than a business book that follows a formulaic structure. Fiction projects with complex plots and world-building also require more effort.

3. Research and Interviews

Extensive research, fact-checking, or conducting multiple interviews can increase the fee significantly, as these activities require additional time and skill.

4. Turnaround Time

Rush projects or tight deadlines usually incur higher rates. Ghostwriters may prioritize these projects over others and dedicate extra hours to meet deadlines.

5. Number of Revisions Included

Some ghostwriters include a set number of revision rounds in their fee. Additional revisions beyond that may cost extra.

How to Negotiate Ghostwriting Fees Effectively

1. Define Your Project Scope Clearly

Be as specific as possible about word count, content type, research needs, deadlines, and expected deliverables before requesting quotes.

1. Request a Detailed Proposal

Ask ghostwriters to provide a clear breakdown of costs, timelines, deliverables, and revision policies.

1. Discuss Payment Terms

Clarify payment schedules—whether a deposit is required, milestone payments, or full payment upfront.

1. Understand the Value

Don’t just focus on the cheapest rate; consider the ghostwriter’s experience, portfolio, communication style, and ability to deliver your vision.

1. Clarify Rights and Credits

Confirm who retains copyright, whether the author receives full credit, and any confidentiality terms.

Choosing the Right Pricing Model for Your Project

Opt for Per Word Pricing if:

• Your project has a clearly defined word count.
• You want pricing directly linked to manuscript length.
• You are commissioning short works or content with a tight scope.
• You desire maximum transparency on cost per unit of text.

Opt for Per Project Pricing if:

• You are writing a full-length book with variable or evolving length.
• Your project involves complex storytelling, research, or multiple interviews.
• You want predictable budgeting with no surprises.
• You prefer a collaborative creative process with flexible scope adjustments.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between per word and per project ghostwriting fees is a critical decision that affects your budget, timeline, and overall experience. Both pricing models have clear advantages and potential challenges. Your choice should depend on your project type, budget preferences, scope complexity, and how you want to collaborate with your ghostwriter.

Effective communication, clear expectations, and a detailed contract are key to a successful ghostwriting partnership regardless of pricing model. When chosen carefully, ghostwriting can bring your story to life with professionalism and creativity, turning your vision into a polished, compelling manuscript.