Are you an experienced or aspiring freelance writer looking to make money from your writing skills? You’re not alone, many writers are turning their passion for words into a steady income.
The good news is that several reputable websites will actually pay you to write, some offering up to $100 or more per article.
Whether you’re just starting out or already an established freelancer, there are opportunities for every level of experience.
Here’s a list of 25 legit websites that pay writers, helping you earn while doing what you love.
1. Listverse
Listverse is a pretty well-known spot if you’re into writing list-style articles. They get a ton of readers, like, millions each month, so there’s a good chance your work could be seen. They’re looking for lists with 10 items, and each item needs a couple of paragraphs explaining it, plus links to back up your points. The articles usually need to be around 1,500 words or more. If they like what you send, they’ll pay you $100.
It’s not about being a super-famous writer; it’s more about finding interesting, maybe even a little weird, topics and presenting them in a way that’s easy to read and follow. Think along the lines of “10 Strange Historical Facts” or “10 Lesser-Known Space Discoveries.” They have a form on their website to submit your ideas, so it’s pretty straightforward to get started. Just make sure your list is well-researched and engaging. They pay via PayPal, which is handy for most people.
2. Freelance Mom
Freelance Mom is a pretty cool spot if you’re a parent looking to write about the whole juggling act of freelancing, entrepreneurship, and, you know, life. They’re looking for blog posts, usually around 1,500 words, and they’ll pay up to $100 for them. It’s a good place if you’ve got stories about building a freelance career while also, well, raising kids.
What kind of stuff do they like? Think articles about systems and tools that actually help you get work done, or just general tips for making the freelance life work when you’ve got little ones running around. They seem to really value personal experiences and insights, so don’t be afraid to share your own journey. The key is to keep it clear and practical. Readers here are looking for advice they can actually use to find their own balance, not just fluff.
So, if you’re a parent who’s figured out some tricks to the trade, or just want to share your unique take on working from home with a family, give Freelance Mom a shot. It seems like a place that gets what you’re going through and wants to hear about it.
3. Make A Living Writing
This site is all about helping freelance writers actually make a living. They’re looking for articles that give practical advice to fellow writers, focusing on how to earn more money and find better gigs. Think of it as advice for writers, by writers.
They want posts that are super useful, with clear steps and fresh ideas. If you’ve got a great tip for leveling up your freelance game, this might be the place to share it. They’re not just looking for fluff; they want content that genuinely helps someone improve their writing business.
Here’s what they generally look for:
- Actionable Advice: Tips that writers can use right away to improve their income or workflow.
- Real-World Experience: Stories or insights from your own freelance journey.
- Clear and Concise Writing: Easy-to-understand content that gets straight to the point.
They used to pay around $150 for accepted articles, which is a pretty sweet deal. Keep an eye on their site for when they open up for submissions again, because when they do, you’ll want to be ready to pitch your best ideas. You can usually find their submission guidelines and email address on their website, so give those a good read before you send anything over. A well-thought-out pitch is key here.
4. Freelance Writing
Finding paid article writing opportunities that pay well can feel like a treasure hunt sometimes. You want to find those work from home writing gigs that offer a decent freelance writing income without requiring you to have a decade of experience or a PhD. That’s where sites like Freelance Writing come in. They’re not exactly a publication you pitch to directly, but rather a hub that connects writers with potential clients and opportunities. Think of it as a resource center for people looking to make a living writing.
Freelance Writing features a job board that’s updated regularly with various writing projects. You’ll find everything from blog posts and website copy to more in-depth articles. The key here is to check the board frequently because good gigs can get snapped up quickly. They also have a section dedicated to companies that hire freelance writers, which can be a goldmine for finding consistent work.
What kind of pay can you expect? Well, it varies a lot. Some listings might be for lower-paying projects, but others definitely aim for that $100+ per article mark, especially for more specialized content or longer pieces. It really depends on the client and the scope of the work.
To make the most of Freelance Writing, make sure your profile is polished and highlights your skills. If you see a gig that interests you:
- Read the description carefully: Understand exactly what the client is looking for.
- Tailor your pitch: Don’t send a generic application. Show them you’ve read the details and explain why you’re a good fit.
- Be professional: Even though it’s online, treat every interaction like a business meeting.
It’s a solid place to start if you’re trying to build up your freelance writing income and find reliable work from home writing gigs.
5. Greatist
So, you’re looking to write about health, wellness, or relationships and actually get paid for it? Greatist might be your spot. They’re specifically looking for content that speaks to millennials, so think about what’s relevant to people in their 20s and early 30s. This isn’t just about quick tips; they accept both guides and more informative pieces.
What kind of stuff do they like? Well, it’s pretty broad within their niche. You could be writing about:
- Mental health topics, like managing stress or dealing with anxiety.
- Relationship advice, whether it’s about friendships, romantic partnerships, or family.
- General wellness, which could cover fitness, nutrition, or even work-life balance.
They’re looking for articles that are generally between 1,000 and 1,500 words. If they like what you send in, you can expect to get at least $125. The better the quality and the more in-depth your piece is, the more they might pay. It sounds like they want writers who can offer solid information and maybe a fresh perspective on common issues that millennials face. Definitely read a few of their articles before you pitch to get a feel for their style and what they’re looking for.
6. Longreads
Okay, so you’ve got a story burning inside you, something with a bit of depth, maybe a personal essay, a deep dive into a topic, or even a well-researched investigative piece? Longreads might be your spot. They’re not just looking for any old blog post; they want stories that are “well-written, well-told, and easy to follow,” focusing on human experiences that readers can really connect with. Think of it as a place for narratives that stick with you.
What kind of stuff do they publish? They’re pretty open, actually. You could pitch them:
- Personal Essays: Share your own experiences and reflections.
- Investigative Journalism: Dig deep into a subject and uncover new information.
- Book Reviews: Offer thoughtful critiques of published works.
- Short Interviews: Get to the heart of a conversation with someone interesting.
- Reading Lists: Curate a collection of compelling reads on a specific theme.
- Memoirs: Share a segment of your life story.
They’re looking for pieces that range from about 800 words all the way up to 6,000 words. And the pay? It’s pretty decent. They pay a minimum of $250, but it can go up to $1,500 or even more for exceptional work. So, if you’ve got a longer, more involved story to tell, Longreads is definitely worth checking out. Just make sure your writing is clear and engaging – that’s what they’re all about.
7. Copyhackers
So, Copyhackers. This is a place that really digs into the nitty-gritty of copywriting, marketing, and how to get a business off the ground and keep it growing. They’re not looking for fluff pieces, that’s for sure. You’ve got to bring some serious substance to the table here.
What they want are articles that are deeply researched and practical. Think about topics like conversion copywriting – how to actually get people to do what you want them to do on a website. Or maybe UX and A/B testing, which is all about figuring out what works best. Product design and the psychology behind why people buy things are also big on their radar. They also like content about freelancing, especially if it touches on making a good living from it.
Here’s the deal with their articles:
- Length: Don’t even think about submitting anything under 2,000 words. They want depth, so plan accordingly.
- Content: It needs to be thoroughly researched. You can’t just state opinions; you need to back them up. Case studies are a big plus, showing real-world examples of what you’re talking about.
- Perspective: They often look for articles that include a first-person account or story. This helps make the content more relatable and engaging.
- Payment: They pay a solid $325 per article. It’s a good chunk of change, but you have to earn it with quality content.
Basically, if you’ve got real experience and can share actionable insights about marketing and business growth, Copyhackers is a solid bet. Just make sure you’ve done your homework and can present your ideas clearly and convincingly.
8. IncomeDiary
If you’ve got a knack for online marketing, SEO, or just generally making money online, IncomeDiary might be your spot. They’re looking for experienced writers who really know their stuff in these areas. Think of it as sharing your hard-won knowledge with others who are trying to grow their businesses online.
They’re not just looking for any old article, though. The pieces they accept need to be factually correct, engaging to read, and packed with useful information. It’s a tough gig to get accepted, but if you can put together a well-researched article that’s also fun to read, you’ve got a better shot. Payments here tend to fall in the $150 to $300 range, which is pretty decent for a solid piece of work. So, if you’ve got expertise and can explain it clearly, give IncomeDiary a look.
9. HerMoney
So, HerMoney is a website that’s all about, you guessed it, money, but specifically from a woman’s perspective. They’re looking for articles that talk about financial empowerment, everyday money tips, and basically anything that helps women feel more confident and successful with their finances. It’s not just about making more money, but also about managing it well and achieving financial goals. They seem to really value practical advice that readers can actually use.
What’s cool is that they pay pretty well, up to $150 per article. They’re interested in pieces that cover financial challenges women face, like closing the pay gap or balancing career and family. If you’ve got a personal story related to money or can offer solid advice on topics like investing, saving, or career growth, this could be a good spot.
Here’s a quick rundown of what they like:
- Topics: Personal finance, career advice, financial empowerment for women, balancing work and life, achieving financial goals.
- Style: Conversational, relatable, and often includes personal experiences. Think of it as advice from a friend who knows her stuff.
- Payment: Up to $150 per article, which is a decent rate for this kind of content.
10. B. Michelle Pippin
Okay, so B. Michelle Pippin is a bit of a hidden gem for freelance writers, especially if you’re into the business side of things. It’s not as widely known as some of the bigger sites, but it pays pretty well. They’re looking for articles on entrepreneurship, marketing, and general business topics. Think of it as a place where you can share your real-world business smarts.
What they really like are articles that offer practical advice. If you’ve got experience as an entrepreneur or marketer, this is your chance to shine. They want tips that people can actually use, not just fluffy ideas. Step-by-step guides, case studies, and listicles about marketing strategies or how to be a better entrepreneur tend to do well here. They also have a soft spot for articles about time management and new marketing techniques.
Here’s the deal with payment: it can range from $50 to $150 per article. The amount you get often depends on how solid your information is. Articles that include proven statistics or well-researched data usually get paid more. So, if you can back up your advice with facts, you’re in a better position to get the higher end of that pay range. It’s definitely worth checking out their submission guidelines to make sure your pitch is on point before you send it over.
11. The Layout
So, you’re into building websites, huh? Maybe you’re a WordPress whiz or just someone who likes to tinker with online spaces. Well, The Layout is a spot that actually pays writers to share their knowledge. They’re all about WordPress design, websites in general, and how-to guides.
If you’ve got a knack for explaining things clearly, especially when it comes to web design, plugins, or just making a website look good and work right, this could be a good gig. They’re looking for posts that offer real help, like step-by-step instructions or solid tips that people can actually use.
Here’s a bit of what they’re looking for:
- WordPress Tips: Anything from setting up your first site to advanced plugin configurations.
- Website Design Advice: How to make a site look professional, improve user experience, or choose the right tools.
- Tutorials: Clear, actionable guides that walk readers through a specific task or process.
They’re known to pay up to $150 for articles, which isn’t too shabby. The key here is to be helpful and clear. Think about someone who’s just starting out or struggling with a specific web design problem. Can you solve it for them in your article? If you can, and you know your stuff about web design or WordPress, it’s definitely worth sending them a pitch. Just make sure you check out their site first to get a feel for the kind of content they publish. You don’t want to send them something that’s way off base.
12. WorthPoint
If you’re into antiques and collectibles, WorthPoint might be your jam. They’re looking for writers who know their stuff about old treasures, from furniture to stamps to vintage toys. They’ll pay you up to $100 for an article, which isn’t too shabby.
What they really want are pieces that dig deep. Think historical context, details about what makes an item valuable, or even how to spot fakes. If you’ve got a knack for researching obscure items or sharing stories about unique finds, this is a place where that knowledge can actually earn you some cash.
To do well here, you’ll want to:
- Show your expertise: Don’t just list facts; explain why they matter. If you’re writing about a specific type of pottery, for example, talk about its history, common makers, and what collectors look for.
- Be thorough: Readers coming to WorthPoint are usually looking for detailed information. Make sure your article covers the topic well, providing insights they can’t easily find elsewhere.
- Focus on value: Whether it’s monetary value, historical significance, or collecting tips, make sure your article helps the reader understand the worth of the subject matter.
13. Gastro Obscura
Ever get that feeling you’ve eaten something truly unique, something that tells a story? Gastro Obscura is all about those kinds of food and drink experiences. Think of it as a culinary adventure, a place where you can share those weird and wonderful tastes you’ve discovered from all corners of the globe. It’s part of the bigger Atlas Obscura family, so they’re really into the unusual and surprising.
They’re looking for writers who can capture that sense of wonder. If you’ve got a story about a bizarre local delicacy, a forgotten historical recipe, or a drink with a really strange origin, they want to hear it. They pay around $100 for articles that really dig into these unique food and drink tales. It’s not just about what you ate, but the history, the culture, and the sheer oddity behind it. So, if you’ve got a taste for the unconventional and can write about it in a way that makes people say, “Wow, I never knew that!”, Gastro Obscura might be your next writing gig.
14. The Culture-ist
The Culture-ist is an online magazine that focuses on travel, but not just any travel. They’re all about “conscious travel, social good and holistic wellness.” So, if you’re someone who likes to explore the world while also thinking about how to make a positive impact and live a balanced life, this might be a good spot for your writing.
They’re looking for articles that are between 600 and 800 words. For writers who have some experience, they pay somewhere between $25 and $100 per article. It’s not the highest pay out there, but if you’re passionate about travel that does good and want to share your insights, it could be a decent option. They want to help people figure out how to travel, give back, and just generally live a better life. So, think about stories that blend those ideas together. Maybe a trip you took that had a positive community impact, or tips on how to travel more mindfully. They seem to want pieces that are thoughtful and connect with readers on a deeper level about how they experience the world.
15. Online-Writing-Jobs.com
Online-Writing-Jobs.com is a site that acts as a hub for various remote writing opportunities. It’s not a publication that buys articles directly, but rather a resource that aggregates job postings from different companies and publications looking for writers. Think of it as a job board specifically for people who want to get paid to write.
They often list freelance gigs that cover a wide range of topics and formats, from blog posts and website content to technical writing and creative pieces. The key here is that they’re looking for people to do online content creation jobs, and they’ll point you in the direction of where those jobs might be.
Here’s what you can generally expect when you check out Online-Writing-Jobs.com:
- Variety of Gigs: You’ll find listings for different types of writing, so whether you’re into crafting snappy marketing copy or in-depth articles, there’s likely something for you.
- Remote Focus: Most of the opportunities posted are for remote work, meaning you can do them from pretty much anywhere with an internet connection.
- Potential for Good Pay: While they don’t set the rates themselves, the jobs they list often come from companies that pay decent rates, sometimes exceeding $100 per article, especially for experienced writers or specialized topics.
- Direct Links: They usually provide direct links to the company or publication hiring, so you can easily find the original job posting and follow their specific application process.
It’s a good place to start if you’re new to freelance writing or just looking to broaden your search for online content creation jobs. Just remember to read each listing carefully, as the requirements and pay rates will vary from one opportunity to another.
16. CheapUndies
Okay, so this one’s a little different, but hear me out. CheapUndies is a website that sells discounted designer underwear. Yeah, you read that right. And they’re actually looking for writers to contribute to their blog. If you’ve got a knack for writing and a weird passion for, well, undies, this could be your gig.
They’re looking for articles that are generally between 700 and 1,000 words. The pay is pretty decent, too, usually ranging from $75 to $100 per article. It’s not exactly groundbreaking stuff, but hey, if you can make writing about socks and boxers interesting, more power to you. It’s a good way to get a few bucks in your pocket without having to write a novel.
Here’s what they’re generally looking for:
- Articles focused on underwear, socks, or loungewear.
- Content that’s engaging and informative, even if the topic is a bit niche.
- Pieces that fit their word count requirements (700-1000 words).
It’s definitely not for everyone, but if you’re looking for a unique writing opportunity and don’t mind the subject matter, CheapUndies might be worth checking out. Just try not to get too weird with it, okay?
17. Damn Interesting
So, you like weird facts and stories that make you go, “Huh, I never knew that”? Then Damn Interesting might be your jam. This site is all about digging up those fascinating, but not exactly everyday, bits of knowledge from history, science, and even psychology. They’re not looking for fluff; they want real stories that are genuinely interesting.
If you’ve got a knack for finding obscure historical events, a quirky scientific discovery, or a strange psychological phenomenon and can write about it in a way that grabs people, this is a place to consider. They want articles that are at least 1,000 words long, which gives you plenty of space to really get into the details and explain why something is, well, damn interesting. And the pay? They offer a solid $150 per article. It’s not the highest on this list, but for a single, well-researched piece on a topic most people haven’t heard of, it’s pretty good. Just make sure your story is well-told and backed up with facts. They’re serious about the “interesting” part.
18. Cave Tools Blog
If you’re into grilling and cooking, the Cave Tools Blog might be a place to check out. They’re a company that sells barbecue and grilling gear, and they’re looking for writers who know their way around a grill. They usually want articles that are around 1,000 to 1,200 words long.
What’s cool is they pay by the word, at a rate of 5 cents per word. So, for a 1,000-word article, you’re looking at $50. But wait, there’s more! If your article involves cooking food, they also give you a $25 food allowance. This is to help you buy the ingredients you’ll be writing about. Just make sure your topic actually involves food, otherwise, you won’t get that extra $25. It’s a nice little bonus if you’re already planning to cook something up for the piece. So, if you’ve got some killer recipes or grilling tips, this could be a good spot to share them and earn some cash.
19. Sitepoint
SitePoint is a well-known name in the web development community, and they’re always on the lookout for quality content. If you’re someone who knows their way around HTML, CSS, or SASS, this could be a good spot for you. They’re looking for articles that really dig into these topics, not just a quick overview.
They tend to pay pretty well, usually somewhere between $150 and $200 for an article. Tutorials often fetch the higher end of that range, and they might even pay more if your piece is particularly thorough or seems like it’ll be a big hit with their readers. So, if you’ve got some in-depth knowledge to share about web development, it’s worth checking out their submission guidelines.
20. Digital Ocean
If you’re into Linux and cloud computing, Digital Ocean is a place that actually pays writers. They’re all about tutorials and guides related to these topics. Think of things like setting up servers, managing cloud deployments, or configuring services. They want technically accurate stuff, so you can’t just wing it.
They have a few different payment tiers, which is pretty neat. You can get paid:
- $50 for a simple tutorial.
- $100 for a more detailed one.
- $200 for an in-depth guide.
So, if you know your way around Linux or cloud tech and can explain it clearly with step-by-step instructions, this could be a good gig. Just make sure your information is solid and easy to follow. They’re looking for content that helps developers, system administrators, and DevOps folks out.
21. Tuts+ Vector
If you’re into graphic design, especially with vector software, Tuts+ Vector might be a place to check out. They’re on the hunt for tutorials and articles that dive into programs like Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, and CorelDRAW. Basically, if it’s about creating or manipulating vector graphics, they’re probably interested.
They’re pretty flexible with what they accept, and the pay reflects that. You can expect to earn anywhere from $50 to $200 per piece. The amount you get really depends on the topic’s complexity and how in-depth your tutorial or article is. So, a quick tip might get you on the lower end, while a full-blown, step-by-step guide could land you closer to the $200 mark. It’s a good spot to share your design knowledge and get paid for it.
22. The Penny Hoarder
So, The Penny Hoarder. This is a pretty well-known spot if you’re into personal finance stuff. They’re looking for articles that are mostly about your own experiences with saving or making money. Think detailed numbers, strategies, and advice that people can actually use.
They usually want articles to be somewhere between 700 and 900 words. Now, about the pay, it’s listed as up to $75 per article. That ‘up to’ is important, because it really depends on a bunch of things. You might even need to chat with their editor first to figure out what they’re willing to pay for your specific piece. It’s not a bad gig if you’ve got some solid personal finance stories to tell, but don’t expect to get rich quick here. It’s more about sharing practical tips and getting a decent payment for it. They do pay via PayPal, which is pretty standard.
23. A.V. Club
The A.V. Club is a place where you can get paid to write about things you probably already love, like TV shows, movies, and all sorts of pop culture. They’re looking for writers who can offer a fresh perspective or a quick, funny take on current events in entertainment. If you’ve got a knack for spotting trends or can explain why a certain show is a must-watch (or a total miss), this might be a good spot for you.
To get your foot in the door, it really helps to spend some time reading what they’ve already published. This way, you can get a feel for their style and the kind of humor they appreciate. Think of it like learning the lingo before joining a conversation. They often pay around $0.21 per word, so a piece that’s about 500 words could land you roughly $100. It’s not a bad deal if you’re already watching the latest series or keeping up with movie news. They seem to value writers who can fill in the gaps or bring a unique angle to the table. If you enjoy talking about entertainment and want to connect with readers who feel the same, give The A.V. Club a shot.
24. Fiverr
Fiverr is a bit different from the other sites on this list. Instead of pitching an idea and waiting for an editor to accept it, you create a “Gig.” Think of a Gig as a service you’re offering. For writers, this means creating a Gig for article writing. You set your own prices, and while the platform started with everything at $5 (hence the name), you can absolutely charge more. Top writers on Fiverr are making well over $100 per article, sometimes much more, depending on the length, complexity, and your experience.
Here’s how it generally works:
- Create Your Gig: You’ll write a description of the writing services you offer, set your pricing tiers (e.g., basic article, standard article with revisions, premium article with SEO optimization), and specify your delivery time.
- Get Noticed: Buyers browse Gigs and can either order directly or message you with questions. Having a well-written Gig description and a professional profile picture helps a lot.
- Deliver the Work: Once an order comes in, you’ll communicate with the buyer to understand their needs and then write and deliver the article by the deadline.
- Get Paid: After the buyer accepts the work, Fiverr releases your payment, minus their commission. It’s a marketplace, so they take a cut, but it’s a straightforward way to connect with clients looking for writers.
It takes some effort to build up your reputation on Fiverr, with good reviews being super important. But once you get a few successful orders under your belt, you can start commanding higher prices and get more consistent work. It’s a good option if you like setting your own terms and want a platform that handles finding clients for you.
25. The Freelance Writers Den and more
Okay, so we’ve talked about a bunch of places you can send your writing to get paid. But what if you’re looking for a bit more than just a place to submit an article? What if you want a community, some training, and maybe even some job leads from other writers?
That’s where places like The Freelance Writers Den come in. Think of it as a hub for writers. They offer a bunch of courses and training materials that you can access whenever you need them. It’s not just about learning, though. You also get to connect with a whole bunch of other freelance writers. People share tips, post job openings they find, and generally help each other out. It’s a good way to feel less alone in the freelance world and to pick up on opportunities you might have missed otherwise.
Beyond dedicated communities like the Den, remember that many of the sites we’ve already mentioned are always looking for fresh content. It’s worth checking back with them periodically. Sometimes, they update their submission guidelines or open up to new types of articles. Also, don’t forget about the general freelance job boards. While they might not pay $100+ per article right off the bat, they can be a good place to find smaller gigs that add up, or to build a portfolio that eventually leads to those higher-paying assignments. Keep your eyes open and keep pitching!
Ready to Get Paid for Your Writing?
So, there you have it. A bunch of websites that actually pay writers a decent amount for their work, sometimes over $100 per article. It’s not always easy, and you’ll need to put in the effort to find the right places and pitch your ideas well.
But if you’ve got something to say and you can write it clearly, these sites are a good start. Don’t just dream about making money writing; start sending out those pitches and see what happens. You might be surprised at what you can earn.
Discussion about this post