Setting the right price for a web article isn’t just about word count. It’s about finding the right balance between quality, return on investment, and strategic goals. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a site owner, or a marketing project manager, understanding what drives pricing will help you buy smart — without sacrificing performance.
What is the cost of web writing?
The cost of web writing refers to the fee charged to create written content intended for online publication — such as blog articles, product pages, SEO descriptions, etc. It varies depending on:
- the complexity of the topic
- the writer’s level of expertise
- SEO objectives
- the amount and format of the content
What Really Affects Pricing
1. Level of Expertise
A beginner writer doesn’t charge the same as an SEO specialist or a health expert. The more technical the content, the higher the price.
2. Type and Length of Content
A short product description costs less than an in-depth blog post (1000+ words). And writing a persuasive landing page takes more effort than a basic text.
3. Research and SEO
An optimized article with relevant keywords, a solid Hn structure, and strong internal and external links… requires thorough work.
Deadlines and Brief Complexity
Urgent deadlines or very detailed instructions can also drive prices up (especially with freelancers who are already in high demand).
Typical Price Ranges
| Content Quality | Price per Word (€) | What It Involves |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | €0.03 to €0.06 | Basic text, minimal effort, often no SEO |
| Mid-range | €0.07 to €0.15 | Light research, smooth writing style, basic SEO |
| High-end | €0.16 to €0.30 (or more) | Expertise, storytelling, advanced SEO, performance-focused content |
📌 By the hour, some writers charge between €25 and €100/hour, especially for editorial strategy, proofreading, or long-form content.
Freelancer vs. Agency: What’s the Difference?
| Criteria | Freelancer | Agency |
|---|---|---|
| Price | More flexible, often lower | Higher, but all-inclusive |
| Support | Depends on the writer | Project management included |
| Expertise | Varies by individual profile | Multidisciplinary team |
| Commitment | More flexible, depends on availability | Contractual engagement with set deadlines |
Get a Clear and Realistic Quote
Before requesting a rate, prepare a solid brief:
- Content objective
- Format, word count
- Delivery deadline
- Expected level (SEO, storytelling, technical...)
- Target audience, tone, editorial angle
✔️ Don’t hesitate to ask for a sample or portfolio.
✔️ Opt for a detailed quote with revision terms and deadlines.
Optimize Your Writing Budget
- Don’t go for the cheapest option: you'll waste time rewriting
- Focus on consistent quality: build a long-term relationship with a trusted writer
- Create an editorial calendar to smooth out your monthly budget
- Negotiate volume deals: large projects are often more cost-effective
Why invest in quality writing?
- Better ranking on Google (organic SEO + boosted click-through rate)
- Professional and consistent brand image
- Content that converts (clicks, purchases, subscriptions…)
💬 Good content attracts, reassures, and drives action. And depending on your visibility strategy, this investment can be combined with other complementary tactics. For example, if you're building a presence on TikTok, buy TikTok followers to create an immediate credibility effect — as long as you have engaging content behind it to turn those numbers into a real community.
FAQ – Web Writing Prices
What’s the average rate for an article?
Expect to pay between €60 and €250 for an 800 to 1200-word article, depending on the quality, topic complexity, and SEO work included.
Why are some writers much more expensive?
Because they also bring their experience, fast execution, and in-depth industry knowledge (e.g., finance, health, tech…).
Can you negotiate?
Yes, especially for bulk orders or long-term collaborations.
Should I choose a freelancer or an agency?
Go with a freelancer for agile, one-off projects; choose an agency for structured projects with broader business stakes.
English 
French 