Let’s be real: the book editing cost can feel expensive. Like, “I could buy a new laptop” expensive.
So when you start getting quotes for hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars, it’s totally normal to feel your wallet flinch. But remember, editing is an investment, not just a service. One that can determine whether your book gets ignored… or remembered.
Let’s break down what editing really costs, why the book editing cost varies so much, and how to budget smartly without cutting corners.
What Affects Book Editing Cost?
Just like no two books are the same, no two editing quotes will be either. Here’s what affects the final price tag:
- Word count – Most editors charge per word or hour.
- Type of editing – Developmental is usually the most expensive, and proofreading is the least.
- Condition of your manuscript – A messy draft costs more to fix than a clean one.
- Genre – Some genres (like fantasy or historical fiction) take longer due to worldbuilding or accuracy checks.
- Turnaround time – Rush jobs = higher rates.
- Editor’s experience – You’re paying for skill and professionalism.
Typical Price Ranges (Ballpark)
Note: These are rough estimates in USD. Prices may vary by country, platform, and experience level.
(Source: Editorial Freelancers Association)
| Type of Editing | Price Per Word | Total (for 80k words) |
|---|---|---|
| Developmental Editing | $0.03–$0.08 | $2,400–$6,400 |
| Line Editing | $0.02–$0.05 | $1,600–$4,000 |
| Copy Editing | $0.01–$0.04 | $800–$3,200 |
| Proofreading | $0.005–$0.02 | $400–$1,600 |
Some editors also offer flat-rate packages or bundle services, especially for indie authors.
How to Budget Smartly for Your Book Editing Cost
Editing can feel like a big upfront cost, but it pays off long-term. Here’s how to make it manageable:
- Start with a manuscript evaluation – Cheaper than a full edit, and gives you direction
- Do serious self-editing first – The cleaner your draft, the less time (and money) the editor needs
- Prioritize the type of editing you need most – If your structure is solid, maybe start with line editing
- Break it into phases – You don’t need to pay for all editing types at once
- Save early – Set aside money as you write—editing is not the time to DIY everything
But… Is It Worth It?
Let’s ask it another way:
Would you rather…
- Publish a book that gets positive reviews, builds your author credibility, and grows your audience
or - Put out a rushed book that looks unprofessional, turns off readers, and costs more in reputation than you saved in cash?
A great editor doesn’t just catch mistakes. They help you grow as a writer, improve your storytelling, and put your best work into the world. That’s more than worth any book editing cost.
Pro Tip: You may also want to consider the importance of copyrights in publishing and why they are necessary. Click here to understand more.
Good Editing Costs Money. Bad Editing Costs More.
You don’t need the most expensive editor out there, but you do need one who knows what they’re doing and works well with you. View editing as what it is: a professional service that helps your book live up to its potential. You worked too hard to skimp now.
Let us help you determine which book editing services you need through this guide:
Which Book Editing Services Do You Really Need?
Next up: we’ll cover how to find a great editor—what to look for, where to find them, and how to spot red flags.
