28 May 2025, 01:57 AM
The book editor cost can vary significantly depending on the type of editing you need, the experience level of the editor, the length of your manuscript, and the complexity of your writing. There are typically three main types of editing: developmental editing, copyediting, and proofreading. Developmental editing is the most in-depth and focuses on the big-picture elements like plot structure, pacing, character development, and overall flow. This type of editing usually ranges from $0.03 to $0.08 per word. For a 60,000-word book, that means you might pay anywhere from $1,800 to $4,800.
Copyediting, which deals with grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and clarity, is generally more affordable, ranging between $0.02 to $0.05 per word. That could bring your total to between $1,200 and $3,000 for a full-length manuscript. Proofreading is the final and most basic stage of editing, focusing on surface-level errors and formatting. It typically costs around $0.01 to $0.03 per word, or roughly $600 to $1,800 for a 60,000-word book.
In some cases, editors charge hourly rates instead, which can vary from $25 to $100 per hour based on their expertise. Flat rates are also common, especially for smaller projects. It's important to get a detailed quote and understand what services are included—some editors offer in-depth feedback and multiple revisions, while others provide only basic corrections. Knowing the average book editor cost and choosing the right type of service for your needs can make a huge difference in your publishing journey.
Copyediting, which deals with grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and clarity, is generally more affordable, ranging between $0.02 to $0.05 per word. That could bring your total to between $1,200 and $3,000 for a full-length manuscript. Proofreading is the final and most basic stage of editing, focusing on surface-level errors and formatting. It typically costs around $0.01 to $0.03 per word, or roughly $600 to $1,800 for a 60,000-word book.
In some cases, editors charge hourly rates instead, which can vary from $25 to $100 per hour based on their expertise. Flat rates are also common, especially for smaller projects. It's important to get a detailed quote and understand what services are included—some editors offer in-depth feedback and multiple revisions, while others provide only basic corrections. Knowing the average book editor cost and choosing the right type of service for your needs can make a huge difference in your publishing journey.