In this article we'll consider:
The diversity of editing services
The diversity of editing rates
Factors that influence pricing
Experience and value
Getting your money's worth
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You've poured your heart and soul into crafting your manuscript, and now you want your work to shine, to resonate with readers, and to stand the test of time. You know to feel confident of these things you'll need to hire an editor, but who to choose and how much will it cost?
If only there was a flat, standard rate for book editing, then you'd know what to expect. But of course this isn't the case; freelance editors and proofreaders, like any other service provider, get to set their own rates, hence why one editor's quote can be so alarmingly different from another's.
So how can you know what's a fair price to pay?
The diversity of editing services
Before we discuss costs, let's just quickly address that book editing services vary across the spectrum, from the macro level of a developmental/structural edit, to the micro levels of copyediting and proofreading - some edits naturally being more intensive and requiring more work than others.
When you're looking for quotes, you'll be thinking about what type of edit your manuscript might need, and targeting editors who offer those services.
However, if you're not sure what it needs, that's fine too. Most editors will be happy to offer guidance based on viewing a sample of your manuscript and learning a little more about you and your book - for example, what your publishing goals are. If the editor feels they can help, they'll then provide you with their quote and terms and conditions.
Perhaps you hit it off with that editor right away and you're happy to pay the price they've quoted. All good. Or maybe, as it's a big expense, you prefer to shop around before making a decision. At which point, perhaps the rates you are quoted are so different you're left wondering which will serve you and your manuscript best.
The diversity of editing rates
Editing associations often post their suggested rates for editing professionals on their websites. For example, the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) in the UK, as of March 2024, has noted its suggested minimum rates as:
Proofreading £29.85/hour
Copyediting £34.70/hour
Substantial editing/rewriting/development editing £39.90/hour
Not all editors adhere to these rates - some charge more, many less - but it does at least provide a useful industry guide. Not all editors charge by the hour either. Variations you are likely to see are:
A rate per word; for example, £0.021/word for copyediting, or £0.028/word for developmental editing, or £0.015/word for proofreading
A rate per 1000 words; for example, £21/1000 words for copyediting, or £28/1000 for developmental editing, or £15/1000 for proofreading
A rate per project; for example, a fixed fee of £1850 for copyediting, or £2630 for developmental editing, or £1260 for proofreading
But whichever calculation the editor uses, they will arrive at your quote not by plucking figures out of the air (hopefully; maybe avoid those ones), but by taking into consideration a number of factors.
Factors that influence pricing
All editors will compile your quote based on the length of your manuscript, the service required, and the value they'll provide. For those editors who quote on an hourly or per-project basis, the cost additionally depends on: the complexity of the narrative, the amount of input needed and time required.
Aside from the meat and bones of the work itself, though, for self-employed freelance editors, there are other considerations that factor into the rate they need to charge in order to maintain a sustainable business. Some of these are:
business rates, such as office rental and/or utility bills
taxes
software and subscriptions
business equipment and supplies
continuing professional development (CPD), to remain up to date and relevant
pension provision
holiday or sickness leave
market forces (i.e. the going rate in order to be both sustainable, competitive, and affordable)
Whilst I personally know many fiction editors who do this job for the love of it (myself included), a certain amount of budgeting in these occupational requirements is necessary for keeping the lights on, food on the table, and the business solvent. In other words, for us editors to keep doing what we love, we have to make it work financially.
Experience and value
The more experienced or specialized an editor is, the greater the value they're generally able to provide, thus enabling them to charge a premium rate. Rather than pricing themselves out of the market, these editors are often fully booked well in advance, by authors who know that the service they'll receive and the quality of the finished book will be outstanding.
Conversely, a new editor just starting out may charge a rate at the lower end of the scale as they are gaining experience, finding their place in the market, and building a client list. So does this mean that all high-charging editors are high quality and all low-charging ones will do subpar work?
Not necessarily. Nor does your editor's rate signify if they'll be a good fit for you and your book.
How, then, can you be sure you'll get what you pay for?
Getting your money's worth
When seeking an editor for your book, consider your current priority. Budget? Quality of service? A particular kind of editor, one you know you'll get along with?
If it's your first book, perhaps budget will drive your decision, and that's fine. As we said above, a low rate doesn't have to equate to poor service, and hopefully you'll still see a pleasing result. If budget isn't a top priority, however, you'll have more scope to find experienced editors with a proven track record specializing in your genre.
As for finding a reputable editor you can connect with - ask your fellow authors for their recommendations, and why they recommend them. Check out the editor's website - is it up to date, clear, congenial, and informative? Does it showcase books they've worked on, as well as their qualifications, experience, and testimonials from author clients? Are they clear about the services they offer and also their rates (most editors provide at least a ballpark figure of their rates, but others prefer you to get in touch to discuss)?
The truest test to finding the right editor for you and your book, though - the closest you can get to ensuring you'll get your money's worth - is to request a sample edit. Some editors will provide this for free; others will charge a fee, albeit a fraction of the cost of a full edit.
This gives you a chance to "test out the editor" before making a decision - to learn how they work, what you'll receive on completion, and whether they understand your goals and, importantly, get your work.
Finally...
Navigating the maelstrom of book editing and its costs can be daunting. But armed with the right information, you can make informed decisions that align with your budget and goals.
Remember, paying for professional editing is an investment in your book and in yourself. Finding the right editor can do wonders not only for your manuscript but also for you as an author - your confidence and your skills. And whilst none of us can predict the future by guaranteeing successful publication of your book, your editor will certainly fulfil their part to try to get it there.
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Tina Williams of Fiction Yogi is a copyeditor and proofreader who works with writers at all stages, giving them the tools to improve their manuscript and level up their writing so they can meet their publishing goals.
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