Ghostwriting has quietly shaped the shelves of U.S. bookstores for decades. From business executives sharing their leadership lessons, to celebrities unveiling memoirs, to first-time authors chasing their publishing dreams, ghostwriters are the invisible hands behind many powerful books.
But here’s the catch: hiring a ghostwriter in the USA can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to well over six figures. That wide range often leaves aspiring authors wondering—what’s fair? what’s too much? and what will I actually get for my money?
This guide breaks it all down. You’ll learn:
- The typical ghostwriting services rates in the USA.
- What influences costs (and what doesn’t).
- How much do different types of books usually cost?
- The difference between affordable and premium services.
- How to hire the right ghostwriter for your project.
By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of what to budget, how to avoid overpaying, and how to get the most value, whether you’re writing a short eBook or a polished bestseller.
TL;DR: Ghostwriting Services Rates in USA (2025)
| Book Type / Service | Average Cost Range (USD) | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Short eBook (20k–30k words) | $5,000 – $12,000 | Great for lead magnets, business guides, or quick-read non-fiction. |
| Full-Length Fiction Novel | $10,000 – $40,000 | Pricing depends on length, research, and creative development. |
| Memoir / Autobiography | $15,000 – $60,000 | Includes interviews, personal storytelling, and sensitive editing. |
| Business / Leadership Book | $20,000 – $80,000 | Often priced higher due to research, strategy, and authority-building. |
| Self-Help / Nonfiction Guide | $12,000 – $50,000 | Involves structuring frameworks, case studies, and clear tone. |
| Premium Celebrity Projects | $75,000 – $135,000+ | High-profile ghostwriters with marketing and publishing support. |
| Hourly Rates (USA) | $50 – $200+ | Useful for shorter projects, consulting, or partial manuscripts. |
| Per-Word Rates (USA) | $0.30 – $2.00 | Common for blogs, articles, or partial book sections. |
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Start Your Book TodayWhat Do Ghostwriting Services in USA Cost?
There’s no single “set rate” in the ghostwriting industry. Prices vary depending on who you hire, how long your book is, and the level of support you want. But based on leading U.S. ghostwriting platforms and agencies, here are the ranges:
- Per-word: $0.30 – $2.00
- Per-hour: $50 – $200+
- Per-project (book): $5,000 – $135,000+
(Source: Reedsy, The Legacy Ghostwriters, Professional Ghostwriter)
On the lower end, you’ll find newer writers or budget agencies. On the higher end, think New York Times bestselling ghostwriters or agencies working with celebrities and CEOs.
Factors That Affect Ghostwriting Rates
Not all projects are priced equally. Here are the biggest factors that drive cost:
1. Writer’s Experience and Track Record
A ghostwriter with a proven history of published books will naturally cost more. For example, a first-time ghostwriter might charge $10,000 for a manuscript, while a veteran who’s written bestsellers may charge $75,000–$100,000+.
2. Book Length
Short eBooks of 20,000–30,000 words can often be done for $5,000–$10,000. But a full-length nonfiction or memoir of 70,000+ words can easily push $30,000–$60,000.
3. Genre and Complexity
- Fiction: May be cheaper if it’s genre-driven (romance, sci-fi) with less research.
- Nonfiction & Business: More expensive due to research, data, and fact-checking.
- Memoirs: Costs depend on depth, interviews, and emotional involvement.
4. Timeline
Need a 60,000-word book in three months? Expect rush fees. A year-long project will be cheaper.
5. Add-On Services
Some agencies bundle editing, formatting, publishing, or even marketing into the package. These extras raise the total cost, but they also save time and effort.
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Hire a GhostwriterCost Breakdown by Book Type
Here’s a more detailed look at how much you can expect for different projects:
- Business Book: $20,000 – $80,000 (executives often pay premium for authority-building books).
- Memoir: $15,000 – $60,000 depending on interviews, story depth, and personal involvement.
- Fiction Novel: $10,000 – $40,000 depending on length and complexity.
- Self-Help / Nonfiction Guide: $12,000 – $50,000.
- Short eBook (20k–30k words): $5,000 – $12,000.
(Source: Reedsy, Legacy Collection Press, BookWritingInc)
Affordable vs Premium Ghostwriting Rates in the USA
When choosing, most authors fall into one of two camps:
Affordable Ghostwriting Services
Affordable ghostwriting services in USA, such as Estorytellers, offer strong value. You can expect clear communication, professional-quality drafts, revisions, and even guidance with publishing—without inflated rates. They’re ideal for:
- First-time authors.
- Entrepreneurs writing business guides.
- Writers testing the waters with an eBook.
Pricing usually stays in the $5,000–$25,000 range, making it far more accessible.
Premium Ghostwriting Services
Premium firms like Write Right, Scribe Media or Kevin Anderson & Associates charge $50,000–$135,000+. These services often include:
- Interviews and full writing support.
- Research and fact-checking.
- Book design and formatting.
- Marketing and publishing strategy.
They’re best for celebrities, high-profile business leaders, or anyone seeking a completely hands-off, luxury publishing experience.
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Get Started NowWhy Estorytellers Stands Out
Among affordable options, Estorytellers shines as one of the most reliable. They balance affordability with quality. Instead of cookie-cutter writing, they focus on capturing your unique voice. Their team handles everything from initial brainstorming to polished drafts. Plus, their rates are transparent—so you won’t face hidden costs.
For authors who want professional results without paying celebrity-level fees, Estorytellers is a smart choice.
Tips to Save Money on Ghostwriting
If you’re budget-conscious, here’s how to stretch your dollar:
- Be clear about your book’s length and goals upfront.
- Provide outlines, notes, or recordings to cut down research time.
- Work with agencies like Estorytellers that bundle editing and revisions.
- Avoid “too cheap” offers—anything under $3,000 for a full book is usually a red flag.
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Let’s Create TogetherConclusion
The world of ghostwriting services rates in USA can seem overwhelming at first glance. But once you understand the factors behind pricing—writer’s experience, book type, length, and services—you can make a smart, informed decision.
For many, the sweet spot is choosing an agency like Estorytellers. They offer professional quality, affordability, and a supportive process that helps you tell your story without overpaying.
At the end of the day, investing in a ghostwriter isn’t about cost—it’s about value. Your story deserves to be told well. The right ghostwriter will make sure it’s told in your voice, your way, and at a price that makes sense for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is ghostwriting so expensive in the USA?
Because it’s more than just writing. A ghostwriter spends months interviewing you, researching, structuring, and writing in your voice. They’re not just wordsmiths—they’re part researcher, part editor, part collaborator.
Can I find a ghostwriter under $5,000 in USA?
For short eBooks or simple projects, yes. But for a full 50,000–80,000-word book, that’s highly unlikely. Quality ghostwriting takes time, and professionals charge accordingly.
Is ghostwriting worth the investment?
Yes. A ghostwriter helps you create a book that’s publish-ready. For business leaders, the ROI can be huge—boosting authority, attracting clients, or even landing speaking engagements. For memoirs or novels, the value is emotional—preserving your story with professional polish.
How do I choose between affordable and premium services?
It depends on your goals. If you’re writing a family memoir or first book, affordable services like Estorytellers are perfect. If you’re a CEO writing a global-impact business book, a premium firm may be worth it.
