Are you a passionate writer looking to turn your love for the written word into a viable source of income?
While the internet is filled with content mills that offer pennies per word, there are legitimate websites out there that value quality writing and are willing to pay competitive rates for it.
In this article, we’ll explore 26 websites that pay writers well for their work.
Whether you’re a seasoned freelancer or just starting out, these sites offer a range of opportunities to showcase your skills and earn money doing what you love.
1. Listverse
Listverse is a treasure trove for list-loving writers. If you have a knack for crafting compelling lists on a wide range of topics, this could be your perfect match.
Here’s what I love about Listverse:
- They pay a cool $100 for every accepted list article.
- Articles typically range from 1,500 to 2,000 words.
- They’re open to writers from all backgrounds and experience levels.
Here are some examples of articles on Listverse:
They also process payments via PayPal, so make sure you have an account set up.
To get started, check out their submission guidelines. The key is to come up with unique and intriguing topics that haven’t been covered on the site before. Trust me, the quirkier the better!
Note: Listverse only accepts submissions from the US, UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
2. Writer Access
Writer Access is a platform that connects freelance writers with clients in need of content. I’ve personally found some great gigs through this site.
One of the best things about Writer Access is their transparent rating system.
As you complete assignments and receive positive feedback, your star rating increases, opening up higher-paying opportunities. It’s a great way to build your portfolio and earn more over time.
When you sign up, you’ll be asked to complete a writing test to determine your initial star rating. Don’t worry – you can always improve your rating over time!
Writer Access offers a variety of project types, including blog posts, articles, website copy, product descriptions, and more.
They also provide helpful resources like free training and entry to their annual Content Marketing Conference.
Payments are made twice a month via PayPal, which is super convenient. If you’re eager to get started, read through their writer FAQs for helpful information on the application process and what to expect.
3. Longreads
If you’re a storyteller at heart, Longreads is the place for you. This platform is all about in-depth, well-crafted essays and articles that capture the human experience.
What sets Longreads apart is their commitment to supporting writers.
They offer competitive rates, with $500 being the average payment for a 3,000-word feature. Plus, they’re always on the lookout for new voices and perspectives.
Longreads accepts a wide range of non-fiction content, including:
- Essays and columns
- Reported features and interviews
- Book reviews and cultural criticism
- Historical pieces and obituaries
- Personal narratives and memoirs
Before pitching, I recommend reading through their submission guidelines to get a feel for the type of content they’re looking for.
And don’t be shy about sharing your unique story ideas – the editors are super friendly and open to new concepts!
4. Contently
Contently is a popular platform that helps brands connect with talented freelance writers. I’ve found the clients on Contently to be professional and easy to work with.
One of the perks of writing for Contently is the potential for ongoing work.
Many brands use the platform to build long-term relationships with writers they trust. This can provide a nice sense of stability in the often unpredictable world of freelancing.
To get started, create a free portfolio on their site and start applying to relevant writing opportunities.
Contently’s clients are usually looking for writers with some experience, so be sure to showcase your best work in your portfolio.
It’s also a good idea to read through their Gigs page for tips on crafting a standout portfolio and landing gigs.
Contently offers helpful guides on everything from pitching to managing your freelance business.
5. Textbroker
Textbroker is a user-friendly platform that offers a wide range of writing assignments.
I appreciate the flexibility this site provides – you can pick up projects as your schedule allows.
Here are a few key things to know about Textbroker:
- Assignments are rated on a scale from 2 to 5 stars, with higher ratings paying more per word.
- Payments are made weekly via PayPal once you reach the $10 minimum threshold.
- There’s no need to pitch ideas – simply browse the available assignments and claim the ones that interest you.
At Textbroker, you can find writing assignments in a variety of categories, such as news articles, product descriptions, blog posts, and more. They also offer opportunities to become a proofreader or editor.
Here is how much you can earn at Textbroker:
To become a writer, you’ll need to submit a writing sample for evaluation. This will determine your initial star rating.
As you complete assignments and maintain good ratings, you can increase your star level over time.
If you’re new to the platform, I suggest starting with lower-rated assignments to build up your profile.
As you consistently submit quality work, you’ll gain access to higher-paying jobs. Check out their “How Textbroker works” page for more details on getting started.
6. Verblio
Verblio (formerly known as BlogMutt) is a great option for bloggers and content writers. This platform matches you with clients in need of blog posts, articles, and other web content.
One thing I love about Verblio is the sense of community. The site has an active forum where writers can connect, share tips, and support one another.
It’s a great place to network and learn from more experienced writers.
In terms of pay, Verblio offers competitive rates based on the length and complexity of the assignment.
They also offer bonus opportunities for writers who consistently produce high-quality work.
Verblio has a unique submission process. Instead of claiming specific assignments, writers submit drafts based on clients’ requests.
If the client likes your submission, they’ll purchase it and you’ll get paid. This allows for more creative freedom but can also mean a bit more uncertainty compared to platforms like Textbroker.
To get started, fill out their writer application and provide a few writing samples. Once accepted, you can start browsing available requests and submitting your drafts.
Verblio pays writers every Monday via PayPal, with no minimum payout threshold.
7. FreelanceMom
FreelanceMom is a fantastic resource for moms who want to pursue their writing passion while balancing family life.
They accept guest posts on a variety of topics related to parenting, working from home, and building a freelance career.
What I love about FreelanceMom:
- They pay $75-$100 per article, with potential bonuses for top-performing posts.
- Articles typically range from 900-1500 words.
- They welcome personal stories and practical advice for moms.
FreelanceMom is particularly interested in posts that offer actionable advice, share personal experiences, or provide case studies from other successful freelancing moms.
They also appreciate a strong, unique voice and a touch of humor.
To submit your work, check out their guest post guidelines. Be sure to include a brief bio and links to your website or social media profiles.
Also, share your proposed topic, outline, and first paragraph to give the editors a clear idea of what to expect.
8. Fiverr
Fiverr is a popular freelancing platform where writers can offer their services to clients worldwide.
As a Fiverr seller, you create a “gig” outlining your writing services and prices, and clients can order from you directly.
Why Fiverr is great for writers:
- You set your own rates and choose which projects to take on.
- Gigs can be as simple as a 500-word blog post or as complex as a full eBook.
- Fiverr handles all the payment processing and client communication for you.
One of the best things about Fiverr is the variety of writing projects available.
You can offer services like blog posts, articles, website copy, product descriptions, press releases, and more. Plus, you can offer add-ons and packages to increase your earnings per gig.
Here are the different kinds of writing services you can offer at Fiverr:
To get started, sign up for a free account and create your first gig. Be sure to include a catchy title, detailed description, and attractive images to stand out from the crowd.
As you complete gigs and receive positive reviews, you can increase your rates and attract even more clients.
9. Upwork
Upwork is another well-known freelancing platform that connects writers with clients in need of content.
With Upwork, you create a profile showcasing your skills and experience, and then bid on relevant job postings.
Benefits of using Upwork:
- Access to a wide variety of writing jobs across multiple industries.
- Ability to set your own rates and work on a per-project or hourly basis.
- Built-in tools for communication, time tracking, and invoicing.
Upwork offers writing projects in numerous categories, such as blog posts, articles, website content, creative writing, technical writing, and more.
You can filter job postings by category, skill level, budget, and other criteria to find the perfect fit for your expertise.
To start finding writing gigs on Upwork, create a detailed profile highlighting your expertise.
Then, search for job postings that match your skills and submit tailored proposals to stand out from other bidders.
Be sure to showcase relevant samples and explain why you’re the best candidate for the project.
10. ProBlogger
ProBlogger is a go-to resource for bloggers and content creators looking for paid writing opportunities.
The site features a job board with a variety of blogging and content writing gigs across multiple niches.
What makes ProBlogger a great option:
- Free to use for job seekers.
- New writing jobs posted daily.
- Opportunities range from one-time projects to ongoing contributor roles.
ProBlogger’s job board covers a wide range of topics, including business, technology, lifestyle, travel, health, and more.
Each job listing includes details about the project scope, required skills, and compensation, making it easy to find opportunities that align with your expertise and goals.
To find writing gigs on ProBlogger, simply browse the job board and apply directly to the ones that interest you.
Tip: If you are looking for freelance writing opportunities that pay on a per-article basis, you can use the ‘Freelance‘ filter to narrow down your results.
Be sure to read the job requirements carefully and follow any application instructions provided. Tailor your application to showcase why you’re the perfect fit for the role.
11. Cosmopolitan
Cosmopolitan, one of the world’s largest women’s magazines, accepts freelance submissions for both their print and online editions.
They look for articles on a range of topics, including relationships, health, careers, and lifestyle.
Why write for Cosmopolitan:
- Competitive pay rates, with $250 per 1,000-word online article.
- Opportunity to reach a massive global audience.
- Looks great on your writing portfolio and can lead to additional opportunities.
Cosmopolitan is especially interested in first-person pieces, reported features, and articles that delve into subjects their readers care about.
They also appreciate a strong, unique voice and a fresh perspective on popular topics.
To pitch to Cosmopolitan, familiarize yourself with their content and tone. Then, send a brief email to the appropriate editor outlining your article idea and why it’s a perfect fit for their audience.
Be sure to include a few lines about your writing experience and links to relevant samples.
12. Transitions Abroad
Transitions Abroad is a valuable resource for those interested in writing about travel, working, studying, or living abroad.
They accept a wide range of articles, from personal essays to practical guides.
Benefits of writing for Transitions Abroad:
- Pay ranges from $75-$150 per article, depending on length and complexity.
- Opportunity to share your unique experiences and expertise with a passionate audience.
- Exposure to a large and engaged community of travel enthusiasts.
Transitions Abroad looks for articles that offer practical information, cultural insights, and personal perspectives on the joys and challenges of international travel and living.
They appreciate pieces that go beyond the surface and provide readers with valuable takeaways.
To contribute to Transitions Abroad, review their writer’s guidelines and submit a brief summary of your proposed article.
If accepted, you’ll work with their editorial team to refine and polish your piece before publication. Payment is made upon publication via PayPal or check.
13. What Culture
What Culture is a UK-based entertainment site that covers popular culture topics like movies, TV, gaming, music and more.
They pay writers $25-$500 per article, depending on the length and subject matter.
What Culture publishes a whopping 700 articles per week! So there are plenty of opportunities for writers to contribute.
They accept list-based articles, quizzes, opinion pieces, news articles, and even video submissions. To get started, check out this page.
14. Vibrant Life
Vibrant Life is a Christian lifestyle site that publishes articles on faith, food, family, fitness, and personal growth.
They have a particular focus on health and wellness topics from a holistic, Christian perspective.
Vibrant Life pays $100-$300 per article, which is on the higher end compared to many other sites.
They prefer articles to be between 600 and 1000 words. I found their editors to be very kind and easy to work with.
One tip for writing for Vibrant Life is to use gender-neutral language that speaks to both men and women.
They also advise avoiding overly academic or “preachy” language in favor of a more conversational, relatable tone.
15. Cracked
Cracked is a hugely popular humor site known for its hilarious lists, satirical news stories, and pop culture parodies.
They pay writers $50-$200 per article, with higher rates for more experienced writers.
One great thing about Cracked is that they are very open to submissions from new and unknown writers.
You don’t need a big portfolio or prior professional writing experience – just a knack for clever, original comedy writing.
Some tips for submitting to Cracked:
- Study the site to get a feel for their style and the types of articles they publish
- Pitch unique angles on popular topics rather than well-worn ideas
- Write to the specified format (list, news story, etc.)
- Punch up your writing with plenty of jokes
Take a look at their writer’s guidelines for more guidance on submitting your work.
16. Chicken Soup for the Soul
Chicken Soup for the Soul is a well-known publisher of inspirational anthologies.
They also have a website where they publish uplifting stories and pay contributors $200 per accepted piece.
The stories Chicken Soup for the Soul looks for are first-person, true narratives about meaningful life experiences and lessons learned.
They should be written in an engaging, narrative style that draws the reader in. Desired story length is between 1200-1500 words.
To submit your story, you actually do so through their story submission page for consideration in one of their upcoming books, not for the website itself.
If your story is selected, you will be paid $200 and receive ten free copies of the book it appears in.
17. Money Pantry
Money Pantry is a personal finance site that pays writers $30-$150 per article on a wide range of money-related topics like saving, investing, side hustles, and getting out of debt.
They prefer practical, actionable content rather than generic, fluffy advice.
I’ve written a few pieces for Money Pantry and found the experience very positive. The editors are responsive and easy to work with. They pay promptly via PayPal upon publication of your article.
To pitch Money Pantry, send a concise email outlining your proposed topic and a link to a writing sample. Review their contributor guidelines for more details.
18. Edible Seattle
Edible Seattle is a local food magazine that showcases the food culture of Seattle and the surrounding area.
They pay freelance writers $0.30 per word for reported articles and features.
Edible Seattle is looking for pitches on topics like:
- Profiles of local farmers, chefs, producers, etc.
- Seasonal recipes
- Food event coverage
- Culinary trends in the Seattle area
If you’re a Seattle-based writer with a passion for food, Edible Seattle is an excellent opportunity to get paid to explore and write about your local food scene.
Check out their contributor guidelines and start brainstorming some pitches!
19. Strong Whispers
Strong Whispers is a site that publishes articles on a wide range of topics including the environment, social issues, lifestyle, and more. They pay $50-$150 per accepted submission.
To pitch Strong Whispers, send a concise outline of your proposed article along with your expected rate. Including links to previously published work can help boost your chances of acceptance.
The minimum rate per submission is $50-$150, but the final rate is negotiable depending on the topic and research required.
I appreciate that Strong Whispers is open to a diverse array of topics and perspectives. They give writers the freedom to explore issues they’re passionate about.
20. Focus on the Family
Focus on the Family is a Christian site that publishes articles related to marriage, parenting, faith, and culture. They pay $0.25 per word for articles between 1200-1500 words.
Focus on the Family has specific topic areas they’re looking for, which they list on their writer’s guidelines page. These include subjects like:
- Parent-child bonding time
- Gratitude and gift-giving
- Historical Thanksgiving fiction based on family stories
- Candy and young children
The editors provide detailed guidelines for each topic, including desired word count, tone, and target audience.
Following these guidelines closely can increase your chances of acceptance.
21. Christian Science Monitor
The Christian Science Monitor is a well-respected news outlet that covers a wide range of topics through a Christian lens.
They pay $0.25-$0.75 per word, depending on the complexity and length of the piece.
The Christian Science Monitor is looking for timely, insightful reporting and analysis on topics like:
- Environment and Conservation
- Education
- Science and Technology
- Politics and Justice
CSM prefers writers with previous journalism experience. They do not accept completed drafts – you must pitch your story idea first and wait for a response before writing.
22. A List Apart
A List Apart is a site for web professionals covering topics like coding, design, content strategy, and user experience. They pay $200 per article, usually within a month of publication.
Articles for A List Apart should be between 1500-2000 words and aimed at an audience of knowledgeable web professionals.
Some tips for getting published in A List Apart:
- Have a strong, clearly articulated thesis or argument
- Back up your points with examples, data, or other evidence
- Write in a professional yet accessible tone
- Avoid content that has already been well-covered by other industry publications
They rarely accept pitches from new writers. It’s best to have a few strong clips related to the web industry before reaching out.
23. Barefoot Writer
Barefoot Writer is a monthly membership site and magazine for writers looking to build a successful freelance career. They pay $100-$300 per article.
The Barefoot Writer focuses on the craft and business of freelance writing, with a particular emphasis on the direct response and copywriting world.
To get a sense of their style and content preferences, check out their writer’s guidelines and read a few back issues if you can.
Your pitches should offer fresh insights and actionable advice for their target audience.
24. Income Diary
Income Diary is a site that covers various topics related to making money online, including blogging, SEO, affiliate marketing, and more.
They pay up to $200-$300 per article, depending on the quality and depth of the content.
To write for Income Diary, you need to submit a pitch explaining why you’re qualified to write for them.
They prefer writers with expertise in their covered topics and a strong portfolio of published work.
I appreciate that Income Diary pays higher rates than many other sites, reflecting the value they place on high-quality, well-researched content.
If you’re knowledgeable about online business and digital marketing, definitely give this a try!
25. Earth Island Journal
Earth Island Journal is a quarterly publication that covers environmental issues like wildlife conservation, climate change, and sustainable living.
They pay $0.25 per word for print features up to 4,000 words, and $200 for online articles.
Earth Island Journal is looking for thoroughly researched, engaging stories that help readers understand complex environmental topics.
They prefer writers to query them with a detailed pitch before submitting a full draft.
26. Her View From Home
Her View From Home is a site that publishes articles on parenting, relationships, lifestyle, and more from a woman’s perspective.
They pay up to $100 per article based on the number of views it receives.
Her View From Home is looking for authentic, relatable content that resonates with their audience of moms and women.
They accept both original content and previously published articles that you own the rights to.
I love writing for Her View From Home because it allows me to share my personal experiences and connect with other women navigating the joys and challenges of motherhood and modern life.
The view-based pay structure also feels rewarding – the more your writing resonates with readers, the more you earn.
FAQs on Websites That Pay You to Write
1. How Much Do Freelance Writers Make Per Month?
Freelance writing income varies a ton based on your experience, niche, and the types of projects you take on.
According to a 2023 survey, freelance writing income varies a ton based on your experience, niche, and the types of projects you take on.
For part-time writers, 33% earned $1,000 to $3,000 per month, while 23.5% earned $3,000 to $5,000.
Among full-time writers, 63.2% averaged over $5,000 per month, with 37.2% averaging more than $9,000 monthly.
Just keep in mind that freelance workloads and income can fluctuate quite a bit from month to month.
2. How Do These Websites Typically Pay Writers?
Most websites pay writers via PayPal – it’s quick, easy, and secure for everyone involved.
Occasionally you might come across a site that pays by check or direct deposit, but that’s pretty rare these days.
Payment terms vary, so always check when and how a site pays before signing on. Some pay right away when they accept your work, while others might have a delay or pay on a monthly schedule.
A lot also have a minimum amount you need to earn before they release your payments.
3. Can I Submit the Same Article to Multiple Websites?
In most cases, no. The majority of websites that pay for writing are buying exclusive rights to your work, which means you can’t publish it anywhere else without their permission.
There may be some exceptions where you retain the rights and can resell the piece later, but you’d need to clear that with the site first.
When in doubt, always check their contributor guidelines or just ask the editor about their policies to be safe. Better to be cautious than risk burning bridges or getting into legal trouble.
4. How Can I Increase My Chances of Getting Accepted by These Websites?
To increase your odds of getting accepted, start by carefully reading through the site’s contributor guidelines and getting a feel for the type of content they publish.
Craft your pitches or submissions to match their vibe and target audience.
Instead of bland, generic ideas, try to come up with fresh, attention-grabbing angles that offer real value to their readers.
Always proofread super carefully and send in clean, error-free writing that follows their formatting guidelines.
Include a short, professional bio highlighting your relevant experience and links to writing samples if you have any.
If you get a rejection, see if they can give you any pointers to help you nail it next time.
And don’t get too down on yourself – even the best writers get rejected sometimes. Just keep working at it and putting yourself out there!
5. Can I Use AI Tools to Write My Articles?
For the most part, no. The vast majority of websites that pay writers are looking for original, human-crafted content.
They want articles written by real people with unique perspectives, experiences, and writing styles.
While AI writing tools can be helpful for generating ideas, outlining, and even crafting rough drafts, most paying websites expect content written by human writers.
Final Thoughts
Congrats, you made it to the end of this list! I hope you found a few websites that seem like a good match for your writing skills and interests.
Here’s the thing, though. Making money as a freelance writer isn’t always easy. It takes time, effort, and a willingness to keep learning and growing.
But if you’re passionate about writing and ready to put in the work, it can be a really rewarding way to earn a living.
My advice is to start small. Pick one or two websites from this list and focus on crafting the best possible submissions for them.
Read their guidelines carefully, study the articles they’ve already published, and think about how you can bring something new and valuable to their audience.
And don’t get too discouraged if you face a few rejections along the way. That’s just part of the gig.
Keep refining your pitches and improving your writing, and eventually, you’ll start seeing those acceptances and paychecks roll in.
Drop a comment below and let me know which website you’re most excited to write for!