I recently had a request to ghostwrite a memoir. While I was considering the offer, I checked to see the going rate for such an endeavor.
You might find it interesting that ghost-writing rates vary. For 2023, they were between $12K to $42K for biographies and memoirs; $1,500 to $5K for children’s picture books; $6,500 to $26K for action and adventure—all of which depend on genre and expertise of the writer.
If you need a writer, you must decide if you want to self-publish your book or go through a traditional publisher.
If you self-publish your book, you must pay the cost of a ghostwriter whereas a traditional publisher might cover that fee for you.
Remember, there are other costs involved in publishing, such as transcription, editing, interview-related activities such as travel and legal agreements. Cover design, formatting, and a host of other fees will typically apply.
If you have knowledge that will help others or an interesting story to tell—and if you lack the writing skills necessary to do your own work, hiring a ghost-writer just may be the way to go.
If your budget allows, that is.
brenda poulos 
I recently completed the second book for a repeat client.
There’s money in ghostwriting, but it’s also a minefield of emotions. The client’s story and their agenda tops the ghostwriter’s personal goals. It was a balancing act, and I had to keep the client’s voice while improving the story.
After walking the emotional tightrope from project mapping to book publishing, my client rewarded me with his sincere appreciation, and for me, that was more important than the money.
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Good to know. Thanks for all of the information. And, you are right. Money is rarely the important thing.
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Thanks for sharing your thoughts. There are things–like doing good for someone else–that is more important than money.
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