How Much Does It Cost To Have Someone Write A Book For You

Have a brilliant idea for a book but don’t have the time or writing experience to bring it to life? You’re not alone. Thousands of aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, celebrities, and professionals turn to ghostwriting services to get their stories told. But one of the most common questions people ask is: How much does it cost to have someone write a book for you?

The cost to hire a ghostwriter can vary dramatically depending on several factors, including the ghostwriter’s experience, the complexity of your book, the length, and the amount of research involved. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about book ghostwriting costs, what you’re actually paying for, and how to choose the right ghostwriting partner for your project.

What is a Ghostwriter?

A ghostwriter is a professional writer hired to write a book or other content on someone else’s behalf. The client is credited as the author, while the ghostwriter remains anonymous. Ghostwriters are commonly used for:

• Memoirs
• Business books
• Fiction novels
• Self-help guides
• Thought leadership books
• Autobiographies
• eBooks

Ghostwriters not only write your book but also help structure your ideas, ensure proper pacing, and craft a compelling narrative that reflects your voice and message.

What Factors Affect the Cost of Hiring a Ghostwriter?

The total price of ghostwriting services depends on various elements:

1. Word Count / Book Length

The longer the book, the higher the cost. For instance, a 30,000-word business eBook will cost significantly less than a 90,000-word memoir.

Word Count	Type of Book	Estimated Cost
25,000	Short eBook	$8,000–$15,000
50,000	Standard nonfiction	$15,000–$35,000
80,000+	Full-length novel/memoir	$25,000–$100,000

 

2. Experience of the Ghostwriter

A professional book writer for hire with decades of experience, bestselling titles, or celebrity clients will charge a premium. Beginners or mid-level writers may offer more budget-friendly rates but might lack the polish seasoned writers deliver.

3. Genre and Complexity

Some genres, like business books or historical novels, require substantial research. This additional effort can raise the price.

4. Timeline

If you need the book written in 2 months rather than 6, be prepared to pay more for expedited delivery.

5. Interview Time & Client Involvement

Ghostwriters typically conduct interviews to capture your story, tone, and ideas. The more time-intensive the collaboration, the higher the cost.

Common Pricing Models for Ghostwriting

Ghostwriters typically charge using one of these pricing structures:

Per Word

• Common for eBooks and smaller projects.
• Rates range from $0.50 to $5 per word depending on experience.
• Example: A 50,000-word book at $1/word = $50,000.

Per Page

• Less common, but used in some traditional publishing ghostwriting contracts.
• Estimated at $100–$500 per page (double-spaced, standard formatting).

Flat Fee

• Most common for book ghostwriting.
• You get a fixed price for the entire project, reducing surprises.
• Can range from $10,000 to $100,000+, depending on length and scope.

Royalty-Based (Rare)

• Some ghostwriters may accept lower upfront fees in exchange for a portion of the book’s royalties. This is rare unless you’re a high-profile client with guaranteed sales.

What’s Included in a Ghostwriting Package?

When you hire a ghostwriter, the best ghostwriting services often offer a complete book development package, which may include:

• Initial discovery sessions
• Story outline and structure
• Research and interviews
• Writing and revisions
• Editing and proofreading
• Publishing consultation
• Formatting and design (in some cases)

Some ghostwriting agencies also offer book marketing add-ons such as:

• Author website development
• Amazon self-publishing setup
• Press releases and PR

These additional services can raise the total investment but ensure your book is launch-ready.

Is Ghostwriting Worth the Investment?

Absolutely—if you choose the right partner. Here’s why working with a professional book ghostwriter is a valuable investment:

• Saves Time: Writing a book can take months or even years. A ghostwriter can deliver high-quality content in a fraction of that time.
• Professional Quality: Even if you have the ideas, a ghostwriter ensures your book is professionally written, edited, and polished.
• Increases Credibility: A well-written book can boost your reputation, establish you as a thought leader, and generate passive income or speaking engagements.
• Voice Consistency: A good ghostwriter will make sure the book sounds like you—not them.

How to Choose the Right Ghostwriter for Your Book

When searching for ghostwriters for hire, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Review Portfolio: Ask to see samples of their previous work.
2. Check References: Request testimonials or contact previous clients.
3. Assess Communication: You’ll be working closely with this person. Make sure you click.
4. Ask About Their Process: A structured ghostwriting process indicates professionalism.
5. Discuss Fees Upfront: Ensure everything is clearly outlined in a contract.

How Much Should You Really Pay a Ghostwriter?

The real question isn’t how much does a ghostwriter cost? but how much is your book worth to you?

• Are you publishing for personal legacy? Then a modest investment may suffice.
• Are you launching a book to grow your business or brand? Investing in a high-quality ghostwriter could yield excellent returns.

Keep in mind that cheap ghostwriting services may save money upfront but could cost you more in rewrites, editing, and lost opportunities later. Hiring a skilled and reputable ghostwriter is the best way to ensure your story is told well.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a ghostwriter to write your book can cost anywhere from $8,000 to over $100,000, depending on several key factors. Whether you’re creating a business bestseller, a heartfelt memoir, or a niche novel, there’s a ghostwriter out there to suit your budget and vision.

If you’re ready to share your story but need professional help crafting it, investing in a reliable ghostwriting service is a smart step forward. From ideation to publication, a skilled ghostwriter for hire can make your dream of becoming a published author a reality.