Ghostwriting is booming as authors, entrepreneurs, and content creators worldwide outsource writing, from books and memoirs to blog posts and business articles. If you’re in India or the US and searching “how much does it cost to hire a ghostwriter,” you know there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Ghostwriting rates vary drastically by geography, writer experience, and project type. At Estorytellers, we offer professional ghostwriting services customized to your needs and budget.
What Influences Ghostwriting Costs?
Many factors affect how much it costs to hire a ghostwriter. Experience is key: seasoned ghostwriters with a proven track record charge more. Similarly, the scope and complexity of your content matter: a simple blog article costs far less than a research-heavy novel. Project length also plays a role – longer works often have a lower per-word rate, but higher total fees due to sheer volume.
Other cost drivers include deadlines and extras. If you need a project rushed, expect an expedited fee. Additional services like extra rounds of editing, proofreading, or cover design typically add to the bill.
Ghostwriter Pricing by Project Type
Books and Memoirs
Full-length books (nonfiction, novels, biographies, memoirs) are the most expensive ghostwritten projects. Hiring a professional book ghostwriter typically means investing tens of thousands of dollars in the U.S. In India, rates are more affordable—around ₹3–₹7 per word, depending on the genre and writer’s experience. A 50,000-word book might cost ₹3,00,000–₹3,50,000.
Blogs and Articles
Shorter content like blog posts or articles is far cheaper per piece. Ghostwriters often charge ₹2,000–₹10,000 per 1,000 words in India. That means a 500-word article might run ₹1,000–₹5,000 depending on expertise and subject matter.
Business and Marketing Content
Business writing (white papers, reports, executive content) and marketing material often fall between books and blogs in cost. These projects require subject expertise, so rates can range up to ₹5,000 per 1,000 words. A 5,000-word white paper could cost around ₹25,000.
Other Types (Speeches, Academic, etc.)
Speeches, academic content, and niche writing projects vary in cost. Speeches can range from ₹10,000–₹50,000. Academic writing and editing depends on complexity and volume, starting around ₹2,000 per page.
Pricing Methods: Ghostwriting Prices by Word, Page, Hour, or Project
Ghostwriters use several pricing models:
- Per Word: In India, this often ranges from ₹3–₹10 per word, depending on the project and writer experience.
- Per Page: Based on 250 words per page, pricing can go from ₹750 to ₹2,500 per page.
- Per Hour: Hourly rates are less common but can be ₹1,000–₹4,000 per hour depending on experience.
- Flat Project Fee: Best for large projects like books. For example, a 50,000-word book might cost a flat ₹2.5–₹4 lakhs.
Freelance Platforms vs. Agencies
Freelance platforms may offer lower upfront costs, but they lack the security, consistency, and support of professional agencies. At Estorytellers, we combine affordability with end-to-end service, ensuring you get more than just words—you get a brand-aligned, reader-ready masterpiece.
How Much Does A Ghostwriter Costs: Real-World Examples
- Mid-range Memoir (50,000 words): Indian ghostwriters typically charge ₹3–₹6 per word. That’s ₹1.5–₹3 lakhs.
- New Ghostwriter’s Novel: A novice writer might charge ₹1–₹2 per word (₹60,000–₹1,20,000 for 60,000 words). Experienced writers ask ₹2.5–₹6 lakh or more.
- Blog Series: Five 1,000-word blogs at ₹3/word = ₹15,000.
- Business White Paper (5,000 words): At ₹5/word, expect ₹25,000.
Conclusion
Hiring a ghostwriter in 2025 doesn’t have to be overwhelming. No matter if you need a book, blog, speech, or white paper, there’s a pricing model and talent tier that fits your goals. At Estorytellers, we bring stories to life—professionally, affordably, and with total creative discretion.
