How Much Is the Ghostwriting Cost for 10,000 Words?

Hiring a ghostwriter can be a game-changer if you’re a business leader, entrepreneur, author, or even a blogger. Whether you’re drafting an eBook, a thought leadership article, or a long-form blog series, bringing in a professional to craft your message can help you save time and ensure a polished final product.

One of the first questions that comes up in this process is:
How much is the ghostwriting cost for 10,000 words?

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, this guide will help you understand the pricing landscape, what affects ghostwriting fees, and how to make an informed decision based on your goals and budget.

What Is Ghostwriting and Who Uses It?

Ghostwriting is the practice of hiring a professional writer to create content that will be published under someone else’s name. The ghostwriter does the heavy lifting—writing, researching, editing—while the credited “author” contributes the ideas, voice, or brand message.

This service is used by a wide variety of clients:

• Entrepreneurs wanting to write business books and publish.
• Executives building a thought leadership presence
• Coaches and consultants producing signature eBooks
• Bloggers needing consistent, high-quality content
• Agencies outsourcing web content, SEO content writing or whitepapers

Ghostwriting can apply to many formats including blog posts, eBooks, articles, social media content, whitepapers, speeches, and even entire nonfiction books.

Quick Answer: Ghostwriting Cost for 10,000 Words

So what’s the typical ghostwriting cost for 10,000 words?

Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $7,000 or more. The wide price range reflects the variety of content types, writing experience levels, research needs, and service quality.

Here’s a rough estimate based on writer experience:

If you’re hiring someone to write a casual eBook with basic formatting, you’ll pay less than if you’re working with a ghostwriter on a well-researched business book or lead magnet for your sales funnel.

What Affects the Cost of Ghostwriting a 10,000-Word Project?

Let’s explore the main factors that influence how much you’ll pay for ghostwriting services.

1. Experience and Expertise of the Ghostwriter

Writers with more experience, stronger portfolios, and a reputation for delivering high-quality content will charge more. A ghostwriter who’s worked on published business books or featured in major publications often has the credentials to back higher rates.

Expect to pay:

• $0.05–$0.15/word for new writers
• $0.20–$0.50/word for mid-level professionals
• $0.50–$1.00+/word for expert ghostwriters

It’s not just about the writing itself—you’re paying for judgment, storytelling skill, industry knowledge, and their ability to capture your voice.

2. Content Type and Complexity

A simple eBook filled with general advice will be much cheaper than a technical whitepaper, legal article, or case study requiring interviews and data analysis.

For example:

• A wellness eBook may cost less than a financial thought leadership guide
• A fictional short story may be cheaper than a corporate HR manual

The more research, structuring, and editing required, the higher the price will be.

3. Turnaround Time

Rush projects come with a premium. If you need the 10,000-word piece delivered in a week or less, expect to pay 20% to 50% more than a standard delivery timeline of 2–4 weeks.

Writers often juggle multiple clients, so prioritizing your project may require them to work nights, weekends, or delay other work—which justifies the extra cost.

4. Services Included in the Package

Not all ghostwriting packages are created equal. Some ghostwriters provide writing only, while others offer:

• In-depth research
• Outlining and strategy
• Interviews or voice recording transcriptions
• Revisions and proofreading
• Formatting (for Kindle, PDF, or WordPress)
• SEO optimization (for blogs or web content)

If the quote includes multiple services, you’ll pay more—but you may save money by avoiding additional hires for editing, design, or SEO.

5. Number of Revisions and Feedback Loops

Most ghostwriters include 1–2 rounds of revisions in their base price. If you want unlimited edits or plan to heavily rewrite with the writer’s help, this may lead to additional charges.

Be sure to clarify this before the project starts to avoid misaligned expectations.

Pricing Models Ghostwriters Use

Ghostwriters may charge in one of several ways:

• Per Word: The most common method (e.g., $0.10–$0.50/word)
• Per Project: Ideal for defined deliverables like a 10,000-word eBook
• Per Hour: Ranges from $25/hour (beginner) to $150/hour (expert)
• Retainer: For ongoing content creation, usually billed monthly

For 10,000-word projects, per-project pricing is usually the most straightforward and easiest to manage.

Real-World Examples: Ghostwriting 10,000 Words

To give you a clearer picture, here are three sample scenarios:

📘 Scenario 1: Entry-Level eBook

You hire a new freelance writer to ghostwrite a personal development eBook.

• Simple content, minimal research
• 2-week timeline, includes 1 revision
  Estimated Cost: $750

📈 Scenario 2: Blog Series for SEO

A mid-level ghostwriter writes 10 blog posts (1,000 words each) for your business.

• Includes light research and SEO keywords
• 4-week delivery, 2 rounds of edits
  Estimated Cost: $2,000

📚 Scenario 3: Business Strategy Book

You hire a top-tier ghostwriter to create a 10,000-word executive guide.

• Deep interviews, heavy research, polished narrative
• Formatting and unlimited revisions included
  Estimated Cost: $6,500

How to Find and Hire the Right Ghostwriter

Hiring the right ghostwriter is key to maximizing the value of your investment. Here’s how to find a good fit:

✅ Check Their Portfolio

Look for writing samples similar to what you need. Ask for client testimonials or links to published work.

✅ Assess Communication

The best ghostwriters are excellent communicators. Set up a call or Zoom meeting to evaluate chemistry and clarity.

✅ Ask the Right Questions

Before hiring, ask:

• What’s your experience with this topic?
• How do you handle revisions?
• What’s your availability and turnaround time?
• What’s included in the cost?

✅ Sign a Contract

Always sign a contract that covers:

• Deliverables and timelines
• Number of revisions
• Payment terms
• Ownership and confidentiality

Tips to Get the Best Value

Even if you’re not working with a big budget, you can still get high-quality content by following these tips:

• Define your goals clearly: The clearer your brief, the better the outcome.
• Provide reference material: Examples help the writer match your style and expectations.
• Stick to a schedule: Avoid delays that could lead to extra charges.
• Respect the writer’s process: Great content takes time and collaboration.

Conclusion

The ghostwriting cost for 10,000 words typically falls between $500 and $7,000, depending on factors like experience, topic complexity, delivery time, and service scope.

While it may seem like a wide range, the key is choosing a ghostwriter who aligns with your goals, voice, and expectations. Whether you need a simple eBook or a deeply researched business guide, investing in a professional ghostwriter can save you time and elevate your brand.

Ghostwriting isn’t just about outsourcing words—it’s about turning your ideas into impactful, well-written content that represents your vision and voice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓ Is it worth hiring a ghostwriter for 10,000 words?

Yes, especially if you value quality, want to save time, or lack writing expertise. A ghostwriter can turn your ideas into professional content that connects with your audience.

❓ Can I negotiate ghostwriting rates?

Some ghostwriters are open to negotiation, particularly for ongoing projects or long-term partnerships. However, top-tier professionals may have set pricing based on demand and experience.

❓ How long does a 10,000-word ghostwriting project take?

Anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks is typical, depending on content complexity and revision needs.

❓ Are ghostwriting expenses tax-deductible?

In many cases, yes—especially if the writing supports your business or brand. Always consult a tax professional or accountant to confirm how it applies to your specific situation.

❓ Will I own the rights to the content?

Typically, yes. In most ghostwriting agreements, the writer transfers full ownership and copyright to you upon final payment. This means you can publish, sell, or modify the content as you wish. Be sure to confirm this in your contract.

Final Thoughts: Budgeting Smartly for Ghostwriting Services

Understanding the ghostwriting cost for 10,000 words is essential if you’re planning to outsource writing for a substantial project. While it might seem expensive at the high end, the investment can yield a polished product, professional branding, and long-term value—especially if you monetize the content or use it for business development.

Here’s a quick summary of how to plan effectively:

• Set a clear goal for your content (e.g., generate leads, establish authority, sell a product)
• Determine your budget range early and align it with expected quality
• Find a writer whose style and process match your needs
• Negotiate a fair contract with clear deliverables, timelines, and ownership terms

Ghostwriting isn’t just about writing—it’s about collaboration, trust, and building something meaningful with a professional who knows how to bring your vision to life.

Need Help Getting Started?

If you’re unsure how to find the right ghostwriter or want a tailored estimate for your 10,000-word project, there are several reliable options to consider.

• Consult a Professional Agency: Ghostwriting LLC is a well-regarded full-service ghostwriting and publishing company known for high-quality, confidential writing services. They specialize in everything from eBooks and autobiographies to business guides and thought leadership content.
• Browse Freelancer Platforms: You can also explore reputable platforms like Reedsy, Upwork, or LinkedIn ProFinder to connect with individual ghostwriters based on your project scope and budget.
• Ask for Referrals: Join professional writing or publishing groups on Facebook, Reddit, or LinkedIn to get vetted recommendations from peers who’ve hired ghostwriters before.

Hiring a ghostwriter can feel like a big step—but with the right preparation and a trusted partner like Ghostwriting LLC, it can also be one of the best investments you make in your personal brand, book, or business.