Get Paid to Write: 101+ Sites That Pay $50-$2000 (Beginner-Friendly Gigs)

In this post, I’m sharing the best options for beginners who want to make money writing, plus tips to get started quickly and avoid scams.

I also used my decade long personal experience to put together a bigger list of legit sites that pay writers. Some are perfect for beginners with no experience, others for intermediate writers, and a few for pros.

We’ll start with the top platforms that let beginners start earning right away, then move on to the others.

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Top Sites that Pay you to Write (to Start With)

If you’re trying to earn your first dollar online, skip the lengthy magazine submission guidelines and focus on the platforms that pay based on readership and subscriptions.

The barrier to entry is almost zero, and you can start publishing and earning today.

Instead of pitching a single editor, you can now publish instantly and build a direct relationship with your audience.

This section focuses on platforms where you own your audience, set your prices, and have the highest potential for scalable income, even if you’re a beginner.

1. Medium: The Easiest Way to (Get Paid to Write Online as a Beginner)

Okay, let’s talk about the absolute best place to start if you want online writing jobs with zero experience: Medium.

This platform is a massive, clean, and friendly place that’s like YouTube, but for articles and essays.

You don’t need your own website, and it’s super beginner-friendly.

Here’s the deal with how you make money writing here:

• Readers (Paying Members): They pay $5 a month to read everything on the site.
• Writers (That’s You!): You get a piece of that $5 membership fee, based on how long those paying members stick around and read your stories.

Because they pay you for reading time (not just clicks!), the longer, high-quality posts (aim for 800+ words) are what pay off.

Successful freelance writing veterans often report earning around $10 to $20 for every 1,000 internal member reads.

That’s a seriously good rate for just writing about stuff you care about!

The Bottom Line

Medium is a great place to start your freelance writing career and build an audience.

But let’s be honest: to earn real cash (like four figures), you need to be consistent and write a lot about popular, high-value topics (like finance, self-improvement, or tech).

Pros:

• It’s so easy to start; you don’t need your own blog or website.
• You can write about almost anything, from poetry to deep-dive technology.
• The Medium staff can “Boost” your stories, which sends your article to thousands of people, even if you have zero followers.
• The payment is based on valuable reading time, not just annoying clicks.

Cons:

• The Catch: To join the Medium Partner Program and start earning money, you must be a paying member yourself (it’s only about $5/month).
• They pay through Stripe. If you don’t live in a Stripe-supported country, you can’t join the program and make money.
• While you can write about anything, topics like health, wealth, and relationships consistently perform better due to reader demand.

2. Vocal.media: Your Shot at Big (Creative Writing Jobs and Cash Prizes)

If Medium is like YouTube for essays, Vocal.media is like the talent show stage.

It’s a fantastic beginner writing platform if you want to get paid to write online and you love the idea of winning a big chunk of money instead of just earning pennies per day.

Vocal is much more forgiving of creative writing (think fiction, poetry, and personal stories) which makes it a great alternative for writers who don’t want to stick to finance and self-help.

The Hype: Vocal+ Challenges

The number one reason people join Vocal is for the Challenges.

These are huge, recurring writing contests for cash with awesome prompts, and the prizes can go as high as $5,000 or even $20,000 for the grand prizes.

Talk about a potential payday!

But there’s a catch…

To enter any of the big-money Challenges, you have to be a Vocal+ member (you pay a monthly fee, like $10 or so). It’s their main way of getting people to pay up.

How Vocal Handles Payments

Vocal uses a dedicated section called the Vocal Wallet to track all your earnings, including reads, tips, pledges, and bonuses.

There are three ways to earn money on Vocal:

• Reads (CPM): You earn based on your CPM rate. Free creators earn $3.80 per 1,000 reads; Vocal+ members earn $6.00 per 1,000 reads. Those earnings go straight into your wallet.
• Tips and Pledges: Readers can send one-time Tips or set up recurring Pledges ($2.99/month, resulting in $2.30 to you). These are sent directly to your Stripe account once a month.
• Bonuses/Challenges: Cash prizes are sent directly to your Stripe account.

All payments are processed through Stripe,. You will connect your Stripe account to your Vocal Wallet account.

Oh, if you don’t have Stripe, no worries, Vocal shows you exactly how to create a Stripe account and connect it.

Pros:

• Entry Level: It’s super beginner-friendly. You can just write a story and hit publish.
• SEO Wins: You get paid for all views, including traffic from Google (unlike Medium which only pays for member reads). So if you know a little SEO, you can make money writing from outside the site.
• Creative Freedom: They want fiction, poetry, and all sorts of fun stuff that other platforms might ignore.
• Cash Out: The minimum amount you need to cash out is $20 if you’re a Vocal+ member (or $35 if you’re on the free plan). It usually takes 10–20 days for you to see the money in your bank account.

Cons:

• Pay Rate is Low: The normal rate is less than $4 per 1,000 views for a free user, which is very low. Vocal+ members get a better rate (around $6 per 1,000 views).
• The Upsell: You feel constant pressure to buy the Vocal+ membership to unlock the real benefits (the contests).
• License Issue: A big one: by entering a contest, you grant Vocal an unlimited license to use your work. This means they can use your content pretty much forever without asking permission again.

Takeaway: Use Vocal.media for its high-prize writing contests, not for reliable passive monthly income. Winning a contest is your one shot at making serious money here.

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3. Textbroker: The Classic (Content Mill for Entry-Level Writing Jobs)

Textbroker is one of the most well-known content mills, which is a fancy term for a platform that has a huge amount of short, low-paying freelance writing jobs waiting to be claimed.

It’s the ultimate starting point for a brand new writer looking for instant work.

The best thing about Textbroker is that you don’t pitch or apply for work. You just jump in, grab the jobs, and get paid once they are approved.

This flow makes it perfect for getting high-volume practice, even if the pay is painfully low.

How Textbroker Works (The Star System)

As soon as you confirm your email after signing up, you will be given a quiz to show your level of knowledge on punctuation, grammar, etc.

You also have to submit a writing sample.

Their editors use your sample writing and the results of your test to give you a rating between three and five stars.

This rating determines your pay for most of the work on the platform.

• 3-Star (Beginner): Starts at around 1.1 cents per word.
• 4-Star (Intermediate): Pays around 1.6 cents per word.
• 5-Star (Expert): Pays the highest at around 5.5 cents per word.

There are three types of orders you can accept: OpenOrders (available to anyone at your rating), TeamOrders (better-paying work for specific client groups), and  DirectOrders (a client asks you specifically, allowing you to set your own, usually higher, rate).

Pros:

• You can grab a job and get paid instantly. No pitching or applying required.
• Provides a very steady stream of work for high-volume practice.
• Ideal for finding entry-level writing jobs and figuring out what clients want.

Cons:

• VERY Low Pay: Even high ratings rarely go above 5 cents per word, and beginners start at barely 1 cent per word.
• Glitchy Website: The platform can feel confusing and clunky.
• Long Review Times: Reviews on work and your rating can sometimes take weeks or even months.
• The initial writing sample is hard; many strong writers start with a lower-than-expected rating.

Takeaway: Textbroker is one of the best platforms to get your first paid writing experience. Use it to gain volume, practice following client instructions, and earn your first few dollars, but don’t expect to make a living here.

You can learn more about how it works in my detailed Textbroker review and discover other options with my guide to the best Textbroker alternatives.

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4. Scripted: The Platform for (Vetted, High-Quality Copywriters)

Alright, if you’re ready to leave the cheap content mills behind, Scripted is where you want to go.

Think of it as the velvet rope club for content creation. They act as a high-end middleman, connecting serious corporate clients with seriously good freelance writers.

The entire reason they exist is to deliver quality, so they are incredibly picky about who they let in.

If you get accepted, you’re instantly a “vetted” pro, and that means better projects and better pay than the mass markets.

The Scripted Scorecard: Money and Content

• What they actually want: Professional, specific content. We’re talking high-stakes SEO blog posts, important website copy, and even white papers for niches like Finance, Tech, and Healthcare.
• Pay: The platform minimum starts at a solid $0.065 per word, which is a massive jump from low-end mills. However, for a vetted writer, the competitive rate often clocks in around  $0.10 to $0.15+ per word for high-tier topics. If you nail a typical 500-word piece, you’re looking at a solid $50–$75 (or more, since you can set your minimums!).
• The Catch: Seriously, getting accepted is the biggest challenge. Their application process is rigorous, and they reject most people. It’s an experienced-writer club for a reason.

The Bottom Line

Scripted is the perfect intermediate step if you have a strong portfolio and a year or two of experience. Use it to skip the nightmare of finding high-paying clients and instead, just focus on writing quality copy for them.

Pros:

• Competitive pay rates that rival getting your own direct clients.
• You have control: you set the minimum price on custom proposals.
• Zero hassle on payments; quick transfers via Stripe and the platform handles project management.

Cons:

• Extremely hard to get in. You need verified experience to pass their vetting process.
• Some application testing requires a small, non-refundable fee (which is annoying).
• If clients aren’t posting work in your niche, the volume can be feast or famine.

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5. Substack: The Highest (Long-Term Earning Potential)

Forget content mills, forget chasing clients, Substack is where you’re the boss.

It’s an email newsletter platform that lets you charge readers directly for your content.

Basically, if you’ve got a little entrepreneur in you, this is your playground.

There’s no cap on what you can earn, it all depends on the value you give and how many people are willing to pay.

You own the audience, which is the real secret to building long-term income as a writer.

How Substack Works & What to Write About

• What they want: Stuff that’s deep, unique, and actually useful. Think niche insights, industry trends, or very specific cultural commentary, content people will happily pay for.
• Typical Price: Most newsletters start at $5/month, but the really good ones charge $8–$15/month (or more) because the content is worth it.
• The Catch: Substack takes 10% of all paid subscriptions plus about 3% for payment fees. You keep the rest which is about 87%.

Bottom Line

If you want out of the freelance hustle and want something you can actually build into a valuable, sellable asset, Substack’s solid.

But heads up: you’ve gotta be consistent, dedicated, and actually have something worth reading.

Pros:

• You own your email list, the most valuable thing in content.
• Total creative control. No editors, no pitching. Just your voice.
• Unlimited earning potential. It’s a true business model.

Cons:

• You start from zero as you have to grow your audience yourself.
• That 10% platform fee is a little steep.
• It takes time to get enough paid subscribers to make a full-time income.

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6. NewsBreak: The Fastest Way to Viral Local Traffic

If you want to go viral without fighting social media algorithms, check out NewsBreak.

This platform is all about local, community-driven news in the U.S.

If something’s happening in your zip code, they want it, yesterday.

It’s basically an algorithm monster, which means a sharp headline and a timely local scoop can blow up fast, sending you tens of thousands of views.

For regular writers, it’s one of the few places left to get that old-school viral traffic, if you stick to the local rules.

NewsBreak: Pay Structure & Content Focus

• What they want: Exclusive, hyper-local stuff. Real-time crime updates, feature stories on neighborhood heroes, or opinions on city politics. Everything has to be original and specific to your area.
• Pay Rate: View-based, using an RPM (Revenue Per 1,000 Views). Viral hits can pay surprisingly well, and top creators can earn monthly bonuses.
• Monetization: You need to be accepted into their Contributor Network first. That requires a minimum number of followers and approved posts. Don’t bother rehashing old content, it has to be fresh news.

Bottom Line

NewsBreak is your best bet if you can be a fast, reliable source for local info. Treat it like a side hustle local newspaper gig, the more timely and consistent your content, the better your earnings. Pros:

• Instant distribution. A strong local story can go viral fast.
• If your content engages locals, RPM rates are high compared to generic platforms.
• Clean, easy-to-use publishing interface.

Cons:

• Income can be unpredictable since it depends on the algorithm.
• Content must be strictly local and original to get traction.
• You need to meet specific thresholds before monetization is enabled.

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7. Ko-fi & Patreon: The Essential (Direct Support Tools)

Ok, let’s talk about a no-brainer: direct support. These aren’t platforms where you publish content, but they’re the easiest way to get cash straight from your readers.

People can send a one-time tip (like buying you a coffee) or set up a recurring monthly membership.

Every single writer, no matter if you’re a beginner or a pro, should have one of these links set up.

It’s the easiest, lowest-risk way to capture income from the people who love your work the most, regardless of where that work is posted.

Ko-fi vs. Patreon: Fees & Benefits

• Ko-fi Fee: Their free plan charges just a generous 5% platform fee on sales/tips. Go Ko-fi Gold, and the fee drops to 0% (you only pay the processor.).
• Patreon Fee: Standard 10% platform fee. Best if you want tiered memberships with lots of bonus content.
• Payment Speed: Ko-fi wins. Payouts hit PayPal or Stripe instantly. Patreon holds funds on a set monthly schedule.

Bottom Line

Everywhere you post your work, drop a link (email, blog, articles, etc.). For simple tips, fast payouts, and low friction, Ko-fi is great. Pros:

• You keep most of the money (highest profit margin possible).
• Passive income once your link is set up.
• Builds the strongest connection with your superfans.

Cons:

• Won’t make you rich overnight. You need an audience first.
• Patreon’s 10% fee can sting for beginners.
• Monthly subscriptions mean you’re expected to produce bonus content for members.

Quick Match: Writing Platform Comparison Table

This is the exact comparison table you need to quickly match yourself with the best place to start making money writing online.

Platform	Best For	How You Get Paid	Est. Pay Potential (Monthly)
1. Medium	Nonfiction essays, self-help, and expert deep-dives.	Share of member fees based on member reading time.	$1,000 to $2,000+ (For consistent, high-performing writers)
2. Vocal.media	Creative writing, fiction, and high-prize writing contests.	Revenue Per 1,000 Views (RPM) + major cash prizes from contests.	Low RPM ($100–$300) but Contest potential is $5,000 to $20,000.
3. Textbroker	Entry-level writing jobs and high-volume practice.	Flat rate per word based on your star rating (1.1¢ to 5.5¢ per word).	$50 to $200 (Great for starting, poor for making a living)
4. Scripted	Vetted, high-quality copywriters, and corporate content.	Flat rate per word/project price (minimum 6.5¢, typical 10¢–15¢+).	$1,500 to $3,000+ (For accepted, experienced writers)
5. Substack	Long-term earning potential, niche expertise, and building an asset.	Direct paid subscriptions from readers (you keep 87%+).	$0 to $5,000+ (Extremely high ceiling, but zero floor)
6. NewsBreak	Viral local traffic, community news, and timely scoops.	Revenue Per 1,000 Views (RPM) for local, engaging content.	$200 to $1,500+ (Highly dependent on viral local hits)
7. Ko-fi/Patreon	Direct support tools, collecting tips, and fan loyalty.	One-time tips or recurring monthly donations/memberships.	$50 to $500 (Passive, supplementary income)

How I Rated These Sites

To help you target the right opportunities, every site on this list has a Difficulty Score (1/5 is easiest, 5/5 is hardest).

This score is based on the platform’s barrier to entry, required experience, and pitch competitiveness.

• Beginner (1/5): The lowest barrier to entry. Perfect for first-time writers, content mills (Textbroker), and gig-based apps (Fiverr). Pay is usually low, but acceptance is fast.
• Intermediate (2/5 – 3/5): Requires some published samples or portfolio work. Pay is fair ($50–$150+), and sites often look for practical advice or niche expertise (e.g., specific hobbies, regional topics).
• Pro (4/5 – 5/5): The highest-paying markets. Requires serious journalistic chops, a powerful voice, or deep technical expertise. Competition is extremely high, with top rates going from $400 up to $1,500+.

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🚨 Red Flags: How to Spot a Writing Scam Immediately

The biggest threat to a beginner writer is not a rejection email, it’s wasting time or money on a fake job.

Watch for these red flags and close the tab immediately if you see them.

The “Processing Fee” or “Listing Fee”

Listen, no legit paying magazine, blog, or website will ever charge you a fee for submitting your article to them.

That’s just nonsense!

Scammers usually ask for $10–$50 to “process your application,” “guarantee a listing,” or “register your profile.”

If a job asks you to pay, it’s not real. A paying job should never cost you money.

The “Guaranteed Traffic” Pitch for Revenue Share

Sites that pay per click only work if they actually have traffic.

Scammers lure writers with “thousands of guaranteed views” so you create content for free.

If the site lacks a verifiable track record, strong domain authority, or a real social media presence, your traffic will probably  be zero.

The Payment Method is Cryptocurrency or Vague

Legitimate sites pay through established business methods: PayPal, direct bank transfer (ACH), Payoneer, or an invoice via a major freelancing platform.

If a company insists on paying only in untraceable cryptocurrency, asks for gift cards, or gives vague answers about payment (e.g., “we’ll figure it out”), they are probably not serious or trying to avoid paying taxes and you don’t want to deal with sketchy companies like that.

A Good Rule: If it sounds too good to be true, or if they ask for any money at all, it’s a scam. Stick to verified lists like the one below.

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💰 Realistic Earnings Breakdown: The Reality of Pay Rates

Before we get to the main list, let me talk about money, specially how much you can realistically earn as a freelance writer online, especially if you are a beginner.

Generally speaking, when it comes to makin g money as a writer online, there are three tiers of pay.

Knowing these benchmarks will tell you exactly what kind of gig you’re accepting and help you negotiate for better pay as you gain experience.

Pay Tier	Rate (Per Word)	Example Sites	Writer Skill Level
Content Mills / Low-End SEO	$0.01 – $0.05	Textbroker, iWriter, some Fiverr gigs.	Beginner / High Volume
Niche Blogs / Mid-Tier Content	$0.08 – $0.25	Most high-quality, privately owned blogs (e.g., Copyhackers, some Tech sites).	Intermediate / Specialized
Journalism / Premium Magazines	$0.50 – $1.50+	Major publications (e.g., The New Yorker, The Atlantic, top industry trade magazines).	Professional / Expert

Takeaway: Don’t spend time on $0.03/word work unless you are desperate for your first client review. Aim to move from $0.05/word (Entry) to $0.10/word (Intermediate) as fast as possible.

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✈️ Sites That Pay You to Write About Vacation & Travel

Love to travel?

You can actually get paid to write about your adventures.

Whether it’s sharing a story about a life-changing trip or writing a practical guide to your favorite city, dozens of online magazines and travel blogs will pay for your content.

Just keep in mind that this is a competitive niche, but one with a ton of great opportunities.

International Living (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is one of the most well-known publications about living, retiring, and investing abroad. They are always looking for personal stories and practical, how-to articles from people who have real-world international experience. You don’t have to be a professional travel writer, but you do need to have a great story or genuinely useful advice to share.

• What they want: Personal stories about moving, living, or working overseas.
• Pay Rate: They reportedly pay around $75 for short posts and up to $400 for longer feature articles.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Travel + Leisure Magazine (Pro – 5/5)

Okay, let’s be real: pitching a giant like Travel + Leisure is the big leagues. They are looking for professional journalists with a strong portfolio and a truly unique angle. But if you have an incredible, untold story and the clips to back it up, they are one of the highest-paying markets in the industry.

• What they want: High-end, journalistic travel stories with a strong narrative.
• Pay Rate: Widely reported to be around $1 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here (scroll all the down to the ” How to Write for Us” section.

ROVA Magazine (Intermediate – 3/5)

If you’re into road trips and RV life, ROVA is for you. They focus on stories about life on the road in the U.S. and abroad, told from a first-person perspective. They love a good story and are known for their high-quality photography and personal essays.

• What they want: Articles and photo essays about road trips, van life, and exploring by RV.
• Pay Rate: A flat $200 per piece.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Outpost Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

This is a fantastic Canadian publication focused on adventure travel. They cover everything from long-term backpacking trips to exploring remote corners of the globe. They accept both online and print submissions, with their print articles paying a higher rate.

• What they want: In-depth, narrative-driven adventure travel stories.
• Pay Rate: Around $50 CAD for shorter online pieces and competitive professional rates for print features.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Wanderlust Magazine (Pro – 5/5)

Based in the UK, Wanderlust is another top-tier travel magazine with a global audience. They look for inspiring, well-written stories that are grounded in a real sense of place. This is another publication for experienced writers with a unique story to tell.

• What they want: Destination features and dispatches with a strong literary voice.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate of £220 per 1,000 words.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Matador Network (Intermediate – 2/5)

Matador is a massive online travel magazine that has a huge audience. While they have a large team of in-house editors, they have a “Creator’s Community” and are often open to pitches from freelance writers with a unique story or a list-based idea that fits their adventurous, modern style.

• What they want: Engaging, shareable travel content, often in a “listicle” or “how-to” format.
• Pay Rate: Varies by assignment, but can range from $25 for short posts up to a few hundred dollars for feature assignments.
• Submission Guidelines: You need to sign up for their Creator’s Community.

Practical Wanderlust (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is an award-winning travel blog with a very engaged audience. They look for long-form, incredibly detailed, and personal travel stories. If you have an interesting story from a trip (the good, the bad, and the ugly) this is a fantastic place to pitch it. They have a real appreciation for honest, first-person narrative.

• What they want: Detailed (3,000+ words), personal travel stories, especially those that include humor.
• Pay Rate: A flat $300 per piece.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

3. Alaska Airlines Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

This is the official in-flight magazine for Alaska Airlines. They cover stories about destinations the airline flies to, with a focus on the West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaii. Like most in-flight magazines, they work with established freelance writers who have a proven track record.

• What they want: Stories about business, tech, and travel related to their routes.
• Pay Rate: Varies by assignment, but professional rates are standard (often in the $150 to $700 range).
• Submission Guidelines: Available on the magazine’s contact page.

TravelAge West (Pro – 4/5)

This is a professional, high-end travel industry publication. Their primary audience isn’t tourists; it’s travel agents. This means they are looking for well-researched, journalistic pieces about travel trends, destinations, and the business of travel. Breaking into this market is a great way to establish yourself as a true professional travel writer.

• What they want: News and destination features relevant to North American travel advisors.
• Pay Rate: Professional rates that can range from $250 to $600+ depending on the assignment.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Go World Travel (Intermediate – 2/5)

This is a great digital travel magazine for beginner and intermediate writers to get published. They cover travel in over 90 countries and are very open to stories from new writers. They accept a wide variety of articles, from personal travel stories and “Top 10” lists to practical “how-to” guides.

• What they want: A wide range of travel stories, guides, and photo essays.
• Pay Rate: $30 – $40 per accepted piece.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Condé Nast Traveler (Pro – 5/5)

Along with Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler is at the absolute top tier of the travel writing world. This is not a place for beginners. They work with established, professional journalists with a deep portfolio of work. If you have a truly groundbreaking and unique story, their submission process is well-defined and they pay professional rates.

• What they want: Journalistic, in-depth features, personal essays, and unique destination guides.
• Pay Rate: Rates reportedly start around $300 for short digital pieces and go up to $1 per word or more for features.
• Submission Guidelines: They have a very specific guide on “How to Pitch Condé Nast Traveler”.

Indie Traveller (Intermediate – 2/5)

This is a popular travel blog focused on budget backpacking and meaningful travel. They accept guest posts from writers with real, firsthand experience who can provide in-depth, practical advice and unique stories.

• What they want: Destination guides, backpacking itineraries, and practical travel tips.
• Pay Rate: A reported $0.07 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Hidden Compass (Pro – 4/5)

Hidden Compass is a unique, award-winning digital magazine that looks for incredible, narrative-driven stories that go beyond a typical travel guide. They have a unique “patronage” model where writers share in revenue.

• What they want: In-depth, powerful travel stories with a strong sense of intellectual curiosity.
• Pay Rate: Starts at $550 for features plus 50% of fundraising revenue.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Perceptive Travel (Intermediate – 3/5)

(Note: This is Perceptive Travel, not Family Traveller.) This is another award-winning online magazine known for publishing authentic, personal travel narratives from well-traveled authors.

• What they want: First-person travel stories from a specific time and place.
• Pay Rate: A flat $100 per article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Yankee Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

As the name suggests, this is a long-running and well-respected magazine dedicated to celebrating life in New England. They look for articles on the region’s travel, food, culture, and artisans.

• What they want: Stories that capture the unique character and spirit of the New England states.
• Pay Rate: Not publicly disclosed, but they state they “pay on acceptance.” Expect professional rates.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

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✍️ Sites That Pay You to Write Short Stories

If you’re a creative writer with a story to tell (or are interested in how to get paid to write poetry) you’re in the right place.

Getting your fiction published can seem impossible, but there are dozens of respected magazines (both online and in print) that will pay you to sell your story for cash, even if you’re a new writer.

And yes, they pay well for them.

This is a competitive field, but if you have a great story that fits what they’re looking for, you can absolutely get paid for your art.

I’ve broken the list down into the two main categories: Science Fiction/Fantasy and Literary Fiction.

Science Fiction & Fantasy Markets

This is one of the most vibrant and welcoming genres for new writers. These magazines are legendary in the community and have launched the careers of many famous authors.

Clarkesworld Magazine (Pro – 5/5)

This is a multiple-award-winning (including Hugo awards) sci-fi and fantasy magazine. They are one of the most respected and professional markets out there. If you write in this genre, getting published in Clarkesworld is a major career goal.

• What they want: High-quality, original science fiction and fantasy stories. They prefer stories that are character-driven.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate of $0.12 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here. (Note: Always check their page, as they sometimes close to catch up on submissions).

Asimov’s Science Fiction (Pro – 4/5)

Asimov’s is another giant in the science fiction world. As you can probably guess from the name, it has a legendary reputation and is highly respected by writers and fans alike. They look for character-oriented stories that have a genuine human impact.

• What they want: “Hard” science fiction, soft science fiction, and everything in between.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate of $0.08 to $0.10 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Analog Science Fiction and Fact (Pro – 4/5)

This is the other legendary giant of the science fiction magazine world. For decades, Analog has been the go-to publication for “hard” science fiction—stories with a strong focus on scientific accuracy and technical problem-solving. If your stories are grounded in real science, this is the best market for you.

• What they want: Science fiction stories with believable, scientifically-sound premises.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate of $0.08 to $0.10 per word for short fiction and $0.09 per word for science fact articles.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their detailed guidelines here.

Reactor (formerly Tor.com) (Pro – 4/5)

Reactor is the online magazine for the major book publisher Tor. It’s an incredibly popular and high-profile place to get published. They are known for publishing some of the best novella-length fiction out there, but be aware that their submission windows for short stories can be infrequent.

• What they want: Short fiction, novellas, and non-fiction essays about science fiction and fantasy.
• Pay Rate: They pay professional rates, but they aren’t publicly listed. Expect an advance for novellas.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Apex Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

If you like your sci-fi and fantasy on the darker side, Apex Magazine is the place for you. They have a reputation for publishing mind-bending, thought-provoking stories that are often weird and challenging. They’ve won numerous awards and are a highly respected market for speculative fiction.

• What they want: Dark science fiction, fantasy, and horror short stories.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate of $0.08 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here. (Note: Always check their page; they have specific submission windows).

Literary & Mainstream Magazines

This is the big leagues. These are some of the most famous magazines in the world. Breaking into them is incredibly difficult, but the prestige and payment are unmatched.

The New Yorker (Pro – 5/5)

This is arguably the most famous and commercially successful magazine for short fiction in the world. Getting a story published here is a life-changing event for a writer. It is an extremely competitive market, so this is an aspirational goal for most, but they are open to submissions from anyone.

• What they want: Serious, high-end literary fiction.
• Pay Rate: Not publicly listed, but it is famously very high (often several thousand dollars per story).
• Submission Guidelines: They have a very simple submission process via a contact page and a Submittable link.

Harper’s Magazine (Pro – 5/5)

Harper’s is another giant of the American literary scene. Like The New Yorker, they publish high-end fiction and non-fiction from some of the best writers in the world. They only accept submissions by physical mail, which tells you how traditional and prestigious they are.

• What they want: Literary fiction with a strong voice and perspective.
• Pay Rate: Not publicly listed, but expect top professional rates.
• Submission Guidelines: You must mail your submission. Find the address and details here.

The Sun Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

The Sun is a beautiful, ad-free magazine with an incredibly loyal readership. They are known for publishing powerful, honest personal essays, short stories, and poetry that aren’t afraid to be vulnerable. If you have a story with real heart and a strong voice, this is one of the most respected places you can submit it.

• What they want: Literary fiction and personal, true stories that have an emotional impact.
• Pay Rate: From $300 to $2,000, depending on the piece.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

The Threepenny Review (Pro – 4/5)

This is a highly prestigious and long-running literary journal. It’s an old-school, respected publication that reads like a “who’s who” of the literary world. They publish a mix of fiction, poetry, memoirs, and critical essays. Like Harper’s, they still accept submissions by mail, but also have an online system.

• What they want: Serious, high-end literary fiction and non-fiction.
• Pay Rate: A flat $400 per story or article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

One Story (Pro – 4/5)

This is a truly unique and highly respected literary magazine with a brilliant concept. As the name suggests, each issue of One Story contains just a single short story. This means your work gets the reader’s undivided attention. They have a massive, loyal subscriber base, and getting published here is a major credit for any writer.

• What they want: Literary short stories of any style between 3,000 and 8,000 words.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate of $500 per story.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here. (Note: They have specific submission periods, so check their site).

SmokeLong Quarterly (Intermediate – 3/5)

If you love writing super-short stories, this is the place for you. SmokeLong Quarterly is one of the most prestigious journals dedicated to “flash fiction”—complete, impactful stories that are under 1,000 words. They have been a leader in this niche for years and are known for publishing powerful, concise, and experimental work.

• What they want: Flash fiction of exceptional quality.
• Pay Rate: $50 per accepted story.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

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📰 Sites That Pay You to Write About General Interest

This category is perfect if you enjoy writing inspiring or practical content for a broad audience.

Many of these publications have been around for a long time and have a very loyal readership.

They are usually looking for personal stories, essays, and helpful advice.

Vibrant Life (Intermediate – 2/5)

Vibrant Life is a health and wellness magazine that’s written from a Christian perspective. They’re looking for well-researched, practical articles about healthy living—covering everything from physical and mental health to spiritual well-being. A great thing about them is that they’re very open to new writers.

• What they want: Easy-to-read articles about health and wellness.
• Pay Rate: Between $100 and $300 per article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

The War Cry (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is the official magazine of The Salvation Army, and it has an incredible history, having been in publication for over 135 years! They look for articles that relate to Christian life, social issues, and personal testimonies. They pay professional per-word rates for original content.

• What they want: Articles, essays, and interviews with a Christian focus.
• Pay Rate: $0.35 per word for original articles, and $0.15 per word for reprints.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Guideposts (Intermediate – 3/5)

Guideposts is all about true, first-person stories. They want articles from people who have overcome a major obstacle or achieved a goal through their faith. The stories are meant to be inspiring and hopeful. It’s a fantastic market for writers who are good at telling a powerful personal story.

• What they want: Inspiring, true stories about faith and personal challenges.
• Pay Rate: A flat $250 or more per story.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Chicken Soup for the Soul (Beginner – 1/5)

Just about everyone has heard of this famous book series. They are always looking for new stories for their upcoming anthologies. The process can be long (you might have to wait a year or two for the book to come out) but getting published in one of their books is a great credit for any writer.

• What they want: Exciting, heartwarming, or funny true stories about your life. They also accept poetry.
• Pay Rate: $250 per story/poem, plus 10 free copies of the book.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

AARP (Pro – 5/5)

The AARP Magazine is a huge publication that reaches an audience of people aged 50 and over. They cover a massive range of general interest topics relevant to that audience, including money, health, food, and travel. Pitching them requires a professional approach, but they pay very well.

• What they want: Articles, essays, and guides for the 50+ audience.
• Pay Rate: Not publicly listed, but widely reported to be up to $1 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Wired (Pro – 5/5)

Wired is one of the biggest names in tech journalism. They are looking for ambitious, in-depth stories about how technology is changing the world. This is a top-tier market for serious journalists and writers with a deep understanding of the tech scene and a truly unique story to tell.

• What they want: Long-form features and sharp, insightful opinion essays.
• Pay Rate: Top professional rates, starting around $2,500 and going much higher for major stories.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Bon Appétit (Pro – 4/5)

While known for its recipes, Bon Appétit’s website is always looking for freelance writers to contribute to its lifestyle and culture sections. They want unique, voice-driven stories related to food, from personal essays to trend pieces and opinion articles. This is a great market for writers who can blend food with culture and personal stories.

• What they want: Stories about food culture, personal essays, and trend pieces.
• Pay Rate: Rates reportedly start at $250 for short digital stories and scale up.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

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🗞️ Sites That Pay You to Write About Politics & News

If you’re passionate about current events and social justice, these publications will pay you for your reporting and analysis.

These are serious journalistic markets that expect well-researched, professional pitches from writers who understand their specific audience.

The Christian Science Monitor (Pro – 4/5)

Despite the name, this is a non-denominational and highly respected global news organization. They write about everything contemporary, with a national focus, and they have a reputation for being thoughtful and constructive. They are very open to freelance contributors.

• What they want: News analysis, feature stories, and personal essays with a global perspective.
• Pay Rate: Typically $250 – $450, depending on the section and length.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

High Country News (Pro – 5/5)

This is a fantastic non-profit magazine for writers who are passionate about the American West. They cover environmental issues, land use, and the diverse communities of the region with in-depth, investigative journalism. The pay is excellent for a non-profit.

• What they want: Deeply reported stories about the people, politics, and environmental issues of the Western United States.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate of $0.50 to $1.50 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

The Nation (Pro – 4/5)

The Nation is one of the country’s oldest and most well-known progressive, left-leaning publications. They are looking for in-depth reporting and sharp analysis on political and social justice issues. This is a market for writers with a strong point of view and the reporting to back it up.

• What they want: Political commentary and in-depth investigative articles from a progressive perspective.
• Pay Rate: Roughly $250 for online pieces and $450 – $600 for print features.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Politico Magazine (Pro – 5/5)

This is the long-form magazine section of the major political news outlet, Politico. They are not looking for breaking news, but for ambitious, zeitgeist-y stories and sharp, analytical essays about politics and power. This is a top-tier market for serious political journalists.

• What they want: Deeply reported political features and incisive commentary.
• Pay Rate: Professional rates; reports suggest a range of $0.25 to $0.50 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here .

The American Conservative (Intermediate – 3/5)

As the name suggests, this publication provides analysis and commentary from a conservative point of view. They cover a range of topics, including foreign policy, urbanism, and culture, but all through a non-neoconservative lens. They accept pitches for both their website and their print magazine.

• What they want: News and commentary for a conservative audience.
• Pay Rate: Not publicly stated, but reports suggest around $100 to $200 per article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them on their about page.

The Progressive (Pro – 4/5)

Founded back in 1909, The Progressive is a long-standing voice for peace and social justice on the left. They publish investigative reporting, and political commentary and are very open to working with freelance writers who can shine a light on undercovered issues.

• What they want: Reporting and analysis on civil rights, environmental issues, and social justice topics.
• Pay Rate: Ranges from $50 for short posts up to $1,000+ for major investigative features.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Dissent Magazine (Pro – 5/5)

Dissent is another highly respected quarterly magazine of the American left. They publish a mix of political analysis, cultural criticism, and in-depth essays. If you have a sharp, well-argued take on a political or social issue from a leftist perspective, this is an excellent market.

• What they want: Political analysis and cultural criticism from a democratic socialist perspective.
• Pay Rate: Reports suggest a very good rate of around $0.50 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

The Drift (Pro – 5/5)

The Drift is a fantastic and highly prestigious magazine focused on the intersection of culture, politics, and the left. They publish a mix of essays, cultural criticism, and short fiction from new and established writers. Getting a piece in The Drift is a major credit for any writer with a sharp, intellectual voice.

• What they want: Ambitious essays, cultural criticism, and short stories from a leftist perspective.
• Pay Rate: A top-tier rate of $2,000 for long essays, $500-$1,000 for criticism, and $150 for poems.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their pitch guide here.

Waging Nonviolence (Pro – 5/5)

This is a unique and respected source for original reporting and analysis about social movements and the fight for justice around the world. They are looking for freelance writers who can provide on-the-ground reporting or sharp analysis of nonviolent action and resistance.

• What they want: News and analysis related to social movements, peace, and justice.
• Pay Rate: A very good rate of $0.50 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Business Insider (Intermediate – 3/5)

While known for business news, Business Insider’s “Strategy” section is a fantastic market for freelancers. They look for practical, first-person career advice, business lessons, and unique personal essays. If you have a real-world story about work or money with a clear, helpful takeaway for the reader, this is a top-tier place to pitch.

• What they want: Actionable advice and personal essays on career, money, and productivity.
• Pay Rate: Starts at $250 for articles around 700 words.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their “how-to” pitch guide here.

The New Republic (Pro – 4/5)

This is a long-running and influential liberal magazine that covers American politics and culture. They are looking for ambitious, in-depth reported pieces and sharp commentary. Pitching here requires a deep understanding of the current political landscape.

• What they want: Reported features and opinion pieces from a liberal perspective.
• Pay Rate: Reportedly starts at a minimum of $250 per piece.
• Submission Guidelines: You must pitch editors directly. Their contact page is a starting point.

DAME Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

DAME is a progressive, feminist-leaning online magazine that pays for well-reported features, in-depth essays, and insightful commentary. They cover everything from politics and civil rights to cultural trends, but always with a smart, unapologetic voice.

• What they want: Smart, progressive commentary on news, culture, and policy.
• Pay Rate: Professional rates from $350 to $750 for features.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Rest of World (Pro – 5/5)

This is a fantastic non-profit publication that reports on the impact of technology outside of the Western bubble. If you are a journalist based in Asia, Africa, or Latin America with a compelling tech story that no one else is telling, this is the perfect place for you. They pay top-tier rates for ambitious reporting.

• What they want: Deeply-reported, long-form narrative journalism about technology’s impact in non-western countries.
• Pay Rate: A top professional rate of $1 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

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🎬 Sites That Pay You to Write About Entertainment & Culture

Do you love movies, music, and pop culture?

You can get paid for your sharp analysis and unique insights.

These online magazines are always looking for freelance writers with a fresh take on the entertainment world.

Salon (Pro – 4/5)

Salon is a huge online magazine that covers news, politics, and entertainment with a sharp, provocative voice. For this section, they’re looking for smart cultural commentary, unique essays about movies and TV, and interesting takes on the world of entertainment.

• What they want: Engaging essays and commentary on culture, movies, and TV shows.
• Pay Rate: Not publicly listed; payment is negotiated upon acceptance.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

CBR (Comic Book Resources) (Intermediate – 3/5)

If you are a true comic book, anime, or superhero movie nerd, CBR is the place for you. It’s one of the biggest and most respected authorities in geek culture online. This isn’t for casual fans; they are almost always looking for knowledgeable writers who can contribute feature articles and in-depth guides with real expertise.

• What they want: Expert-level articles on comics, anime, and superhero films.
• Pay Rate: Not publicly specified; payment is per-article and discussed during onboarding.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Cineaste Magazine (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is a serious, prestigious quarterly magazine for true film lovers. Cineaste focuses on the “art and politics of the cinema,” publishing in-depth reviews and feature articles. This is a fantastic market for writers with a deep, academic knowledge of film history and criticism.

• What they want: Scholarly but accessible reviews, interviews, and features for a well-read film audience.
• Pay Rate: Ranges from $18 for short reviews up to $90 for feature articles.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Anime Feminist (Intermediate – 2/5)

This is a respected and mission-driven publication that provides a unique and important perspective on anime and manga. They are looking for well-researched, thoughtful articles that look at Japanese pop culture through a feminist lens. This is a great platform for writers with a strong point of view.

• What they want: Reviews, essays, and analysis of anime and manga with a feminist perspective.
• Pay Rate: A flat $50 per article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here. (Note: Their submission window is not always open.)

BuzzFeed (Intermediate – 2/5)

BuzzFeed is a massive digital media company that is very open to working with freelancers, but you need to know where to pitch. They are not looking for news stories but for personal essays, cultural commentary, and unique, voice-driven listicles for their “Culture” and “Reader” sections.

• What they want: Personal essays, sharp cultural criticism, and funny lists.
• Pay Rate: Ranges from $150 to $400+ depending on the section and the amount of reporting involved.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their pitch guide here.

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🔢 Sites That Pay You for “Top 10” Lists & Listicles

If you love putting together fun, interesting, and often quirky lists, there’s a whole niche of online publications that will pay you for them.

These sites have huge audiences and are always on the lookout for clever new content.

Listverse (Beginner – 1/5)

This is one of the original and most famous “Top 10” list websites. The great thing about Listverse is that they cover an absolutely massive range of topics. If you have a unique, well-researched, and slightly offbeat idea for a list of at least 10 items, this is a fantastic place for a new writer to get a solid payout.

• What they want: Top 10 lists (with a minimum of 10 items) that are clever, surprising, and well-written.
• Pay Rate: A flat $100 per accepted list.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

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😂 Sites That Pay You to Write Jokes & Humor

If you’re naturally funny, you can absolutely use this list to get paid for your jokes.

While the old humor websites of the 2010s have mostly disappeared, there are still some fantastic, high-paying markets for short jokes, funny personal stories, and satirical articles.

Here are the best ones.

Reader’s Digest (Beginner – 1/5)

This is a classic, and one of the best opportunities out there for getting paid for a very short piece of writing. Reader’s Digest is famous for the jokes and true, funny anecdotes they print in their magazine, and they rely on readers for that content. If you have a great 100-word story or a quick one-liner, this is the perfect place to submit it.

• What they want: Jokes, funny quotes, and true, humorous personal stories.
• Pay Rate: A flat $100 for any true, funny story they publish in print, and $25 for jokes and gags.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their submission page here.

McSweeney’s Internet Tendency (Pro – 4/5)

This is one of the most prestigious and well-known humor websites on the internet. They are famous for their high-concept, clever, and often surreal comedic essays and short pieces. This is a very competitive market, but getting a piece published here is a major credit for any humor writer.

• What they want: Sharp, intelligent, and original humor pieces.
• Pay Rate: Reports indicate they pay a flat rate of around $150 per accepted piece.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their FAQ and submission info here.

Weekly Humorist (Intermediate – 2/5)

This is another great market for satirical humor, similar in style to The Onion. They are always looking for freelance submissions for short, funny articles, top ten lists, and other satirical content. It’s a great place for writers who are good at making sharp, funny observations about modern life and culture.

• What they want: Satirical news articles, funny lists, and humor essays.
• Pay Rate: They pay a flat rate of $20 per accepted piece.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their guidelines here.

Points in Case (Beginner – 1/5)

This is a great online humor publication that is very open to new writers. They publish a wide variety of comedy, including short satirical articles, funny lists, and even one-liner jokes. If you have a clever idea and can execute it well, Points in Case is one of the most accessible markets out there.

• What they want: Comedy articles, funny lists, and one-liners.
• Pay Rate: Ranges from $10 to $35 per piece, depending on the format.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

The Funny Times (Intermediate – 2/5)

This is a long-running and well-respected print humor publication. They are looking for funny, real-world stories and political satire. Think of it as a print version of a site like The Onion. They have a loyal subscriber base and getting published here is a great credit.

• What they want: Humorous stories and satirical cartoons.
• Pay Rate: A flat $75 for a funny story (500-700 words).
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Defenestration Magazine (Intermediate – 2/5)

This is a quirky and fun online literary magazine that has a strong focus on humor. They are particularly great for writers of comedic short stories and funny poetry. While they don’t list a payment rate, they have been around for years and are a good place to get your humorous fiction published.

• What they want: Comedic short stories, flash fiction, and funny poetry.
• Pay Rate: Not specified.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Chortle (Intermediate – 2/5)

Chortle is a newer humor publication with a smart, modern voice. They publish a great mix of short humorous essays, funny lists, and even comics. If your style is more in the vein of a site like McSweeney’s, this is a great market to pitch.

• What they want: Short humor essays, lists, and commentaries.
• Pay Rate: A flat $40 per accepted piece.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Oatmeal Studios (Beginner – 1/5)

This is a fantastic and often overlooked market. Oatmeal Studios is a major greeting card company, and they are always looking for freelance writers to submit funny and clever ideas for their cards. You don’t write the whole card; you just submit the gag line or concept. It’s a great way to get paid for a single, clever idea.

If you enjoy this kind of short, punchy writing, you should also check out my full guide on how to get paid to write greeting cards for other companies.

• What they want: Funny, clever, and unique greeting card ideas.
• Pay Rate: A flat $100 per purchased idea.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their writer’s guidelines here.

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🎓 Sites That Pay You to Write About Education

If you’re an educator or have a passion for learning, you can get paid to share your expertise.

These publications are always looking for insightful stories from the classroom, deep dives into education policy, and practical advice for teachers and parents.

The Hechinger Report (Pro – 5/5)

This is a highly-respected, non-profit newsroom that focuses on in-depth reporting about education. They cover everything from early childhood through college. They’re not looking for simple tips; they want journalistic stories that shed light on inequality and innovation in the American education system.

• What they want: Reported stories and journalistic analysis of educational issues.
• Pay Rate: Professional rates; often reported at $1.50 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

We Are Teachers (Intermediate – 2/5)

This is one of the biggest and most popular online communities for educators. They are very open to writers who can share practical, “in-the-trenches” advice that other teachers can use. They cover a huge range of topics, from classroom management tips to teacher humor and career advice.

• What they want: Practical advice, helpful tips, and relatable stories for a teacher audience.
• Pay Rate: Not publicly listed, but generally reported around $75 to $100+ per article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

The Chronicle of Higher Education (Pro – 5/5)

This is the leading, top-tier publication covering news, trends, and jobs in the world of colleges and universities. Getting a piece published here is a major accomplishment for any writer in the education space. They accept well-argued opinion pieces and first-person narratives about academic life.

• What they want: Insightful commentary and reported essays about higher education.
• Pay Rate: Top professional rates, negotiated upon acceptance.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Back2College (Intermediate – 2/5)

This online publication is specifically for non-traditional adult students who are heading back to college. They publish a wide range of feature articles, from financial aid advice and study tips to stories about balancing school with work and family life. They are open to both new articles and reprints.

• What they want: Feature articles (1,000+ words) helpful to adult college students.
• Pay Rate:Of Starts at $55+ for original articles and $27.50+ for reprints.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Early Impact Learning (Beginner – 1/5)

This online publication focuses on a very specific and important niche: early childhood education. They look for writers who can provide in-depth, practical content for parents and educators of young children, from preschool through kindergarten. While the pay rate is on the lower side, it can be an excellent opportunity for a newer writer to get a paid credit in the education space.

• What they want: Long-form, actionable articles and guides (1,300+ words) about early learning and development.
• Pay Rate: A flat rate of $0.02 per word, with a $10 bonus if you provide original photos.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

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✝️ Sites That Pay You to Write About Faith & Religion

If you have a story to share about your spiritual journey, there are a number of respected publications (from magazines to devotional booklets) that will pay for your work.

These markets are typically looking for personal essays, uplifting stories, and devotionals that can inspire their readers.

The Quiet Hour (from David C Cook) (Intermediate – 2/5)

This is a well-known quarterly devotional booklet published by the major Christian publisher, David C Cook. They are always looking for freelance writers to submit short, real-life anecdotal stories. Each story needs to be inspiring and must end with a related Bible verse and a short prayer. They have very specific guidelines, so be sure to read them carefully before submitting.

• What they want: Short devotional stories between 150-175 words.
• Pay Rate: A flat $40 for each accepted devotional and $170 for full articles.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their detailed guidelines here.

Guideposts (Intermediate – 3/5)

Guideposts is all about true, first-person stories. They want articles from people who have overcome a major obstacle or achieved a goal through their faith. The stories are meant to be inspiring and hopeful. It’s a fantastic market for writers who are good at telling a powerful personal story.

• What they want: Inspiring, true stories about faith and personal challenges.
• Pay Rate: A flat $250 or more per story.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

The Christian Citizen (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is a publication focused on the intersection of faith and public life. They publish news, commentary, and analysis on social and political issues from a Christian perspective. If you are passionate about applying faith to modern-day issues, this is an excellent market.

• What they want: Commentary and analysis on public issues from a faith perspective.
• Pay Rate: A flat $150 per original article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Faith & Leadership (Pro – 5/5)

This is a high-quality online magazine from Duke Divinity School. They are looking for thoughtful, in-depth articles that can help Christian leaders and their communities navigate the challenges of faith in the 21st century. This is a top-tier market that pays professional rates.

• What they want: Essays and feature articles on Christian leadership.
• Pay Rate: Starts at $400 for essays and goes up to $2000 for feature articles.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Busted Halo (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is a unique and very popular media resource for young-adult Catholics. The tone is modern, engaging, and relevant. They are looking for writers who can tackle a wide variety of topics—from pop culture to social justice—from a Catholic perspective in a way that resonates with a younger audience.

• What they want: Short articles (500-700 words) on a wide range of topics for a “twenty- and thirty-something spiritual seeker.”
• Pay Rate: A flat $100 per article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

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💼 Sites That Pay You to Write About Business & Money

If you’ve got experience in the world of finance, entrepreneurship, or human resources, you can get paid well for your expert knowledge.

These online publications are always looking for writers who can provide in-depth, actionable advice for a professional audience.

The Motley Fool (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is one of the biggest names in the personal finance and investing space. They are frequently looking for freelance writers and contributing analysts to create content for their various brands. They look for writers with a deep, provable knowledge of specific financial topics, from credit cards and banking to stock market analysis.

• What they want: Expert-level analysis of investing and personal finance topics. This is for writers with real expertise.
• Pay Rate: Their official job postings state a pay range of $40 to $140 per article, depending on the topic and length.
• How to Apply: They do not accept unsolicited pitches. Instead, you must apply to become a contract writer through their official job board when a position is open.

Budget101 (Beginner – 1/5)

This is a long-running and popular website dedicated to frugal living, budgeting, and DIY projects. They are always on the lookout for freelance writers who can contribute high-quality, practical articles. It’s important to note that this is a ghostwriting opportunity, meaning your name will not appear on the published article.

• What they want: Detailed, helpful articles on saving money, budgeting, and frugal recipes.
• Pay Rate: Starts at $0.02 per word and can increase with experience.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their writer application form here.

Unemploymentville (Intermediate – 2/5)

This is a valuable site that provides resources, support, and first-person stories for “anyone who has felt the sting of being out of work.” They look for practical, helpful articles that can guide and encourage people who are currently unemployed. If you have personal experience with this topic, your story can be a great fit here.

• What they want: Helpful articles (at least 350 words) with real-world advice for job seekers.
• Pay Rate: Ranges from $50 to $100 per article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

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👶 Sites That Pay You to Write About Parenting

If you’re a parent, you have a ton of firsthand experience and stories to share.

A lot of online magazines and parenting blogs will pay you for that expertise.

These markets are looking for writers who can provide practical tips, honest personal stories, and relatable advice for other parents in the trenches.

Today’s Parent (Pro – 5/5)

This is a major Canadian magazine that also has a huge online presence. They cover all stages of parenting, from pregnancy and babies right up to the teen years. They are a professional market looking for both personal essays and well-reported feature articles on a huge range of parenting topics.

• What they want: News, personal essays, and reported features related to Canadian parenting.
• Pay Rate: Reports suggest a rate of up to $1 (CAD) per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Her View From Home (Beginner – 1/5)

This is a massively popular and supportive online community that focuses on motherhood, family, and faith. They are very open to submissions from new writers and are looking for heartfelt, relatable personal essays. It’s important to note their payment is based on how many pageviews your article gets.

• What they want: Personal essays on motherhood, relationships, and faith.
• Pay Rate: A tiered system. You’re paid up to $100 based on the number of views your article receives.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their detailed guidelines here.

Raising Arizona Kids (Intermediate – 3/5)

If you’re an Arizona local, this is the perfect market for you. This is a high-quality regional parenting magazine that covers topics specifically for families in Arizona. They look for writers who can cover local issues, events, and parenting stories with a professional, journalistic approach.

• What they want: Reported features and personal essays relevant to Arizona families.
• Pay Rate: Between $50 and $200+ per article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Practical Homeschooling Magazine (Intermediate – 2/5)

This is one of the most established and trusted magazines in the homeschooling community. They are looking for writers with real, firsthand experience in homeschooling who can provide practical “how-to” articles, think pieces, and encouragement for their readers.

• What they want: Articles from a veteran homeschooler’s perspective.
• Pay Rate: A flat rate of $50 per article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

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❤️ Sites That Pay You to Write About Lifestyle & Relationships

If you have a knack for telling compelling personal stories about life, love, and relationships, this is the section for you.

These well-known columns and publications pay very well for powerful, voice-driven essays that connect with a huge audience.

The New York Times: Modern Love (Pro – 5/5)

This is arguably the most famous and prestigious column in the world for personal essays about relationships. Getting a “Modern Love” essay published is a life-changing event for a writer. It is an extremely competitive market, but they accept submissions from everyone. Your story just has to be exceptional.

• What they want: Unforgettable personal essays (1500-1700 words) about love, loss, and redemption.
• Pay Rate: A reported $300 per accepted essay.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their official submission portal link here.

The L.A. Times: L.A. Affairs (Pro – 4/5)

This is the West Coast’s answer to Modern Love. This popular weekly column in the Los Angeles Times features true, first-person stories about the dating scene and relationships in Southern California. If you have a compelling, true story about finding (or losing) love in L.A., this is the perfect place to submit it.

• What they want: True, first-person stories (750-800 words) about the dating scene in Southern California.
• Pay Rate: A flat rate of $400 per accepted column.
• Submission Guidelines: You must pitch the editor directly via email. You can find their contact page for details.

Italian America Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

As the name suggests, this official magazine for the Order of Sons and Daughters of Italy in America is looking for stories and articles that are relevant to the Italian-American experience. If you have a story about heritage, family, or travel that fits their niche, it’s a great opportunity.

• What they want: Articles on Italian-American history, culture, and personalities.
• Pay Rate: They state pay is approximately $350-$500 for features.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their writer’s guidelines here.

Girls’ Life Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

This is a major print and online magazine for teen girls. They cover a wide range of topics, including friendships, health, fashion, and celebrity news. They work with a lot of freelance writers and look for stories that are fun, positive, and relatable for their young audience.

• What they want: Fun and helpful articles on topics relevant to teenage girls.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate of $300 per feature article.
• Submission Guidelines: They require a physical letter or an email pitch to the appropriate editor listed on their masthead page.

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💪 Sites That Pay You to Write About Health & Wellness

If you’re passionate about fitness, nutrition, and mindful living, there are some fantastic publications that will pay you for your expertise.

These markets are looking for writers who can provide well-researched, practical advice that helps readers live a healthier life.

Well+Good (Pro – 5/5)

This is a huge and very popular online publication focused on modern wellness. They cover everything from fitness and nutrition to mental health and relationships. They are a top-tier market looking for writers with a strong voice and fresh ideas that are backed by expert sourcing and research.

• What they want: Reported articles and personal essays on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being.
• Pay Rate: Professional rates, reported to be in the $150 to $500+ range.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their detailed pitching guidelines here.

Organic Lifestyle Magazine (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is a great online magazine that focuses on holistic health and natural living. They cover topics like organic gardening, herbal remedies, and sustainable lifestyles. Their payment model is interesting, as they offer bonuses based on how many social media shares your article gets.

• What they want: Articles on natural health, holistic practices, and sustainable living.
• Pay Rate: $0.10 per word (up to $150), plus social share bonuses that can take the total up to $500 for a viral article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their writer guidelines here.

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🧒 Sites That Pay You to Write for Kids & Teens

If you love writing for a younger audience, there are some fantastic and long-running magazines that will pay for your work.

These markets are looking for fiction, non-fiction, and even poetry that is fun, engaging, and age-appropriate for children and teens.

U.S. Kids Magazines (Jack and Jill & Humpty Dumpty) (Beginner – 1/5)

These two magazines are published by the Saturday Evening Post and are focused on health and wellness for kids. Humpty Dumpty is for kids aged 2 to 6, while Jack and Jill is for kids aged 6 to 12. They look for fun and educational content, from short stories and poems to games and activities.

• What they want: Fiction, non-fiction, and activities that encourage a healthy lifestyle.
• Pay Rate: A flat rate of $25 and up per piece.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their guidelines here.

Boys’ Quest Magazine (Intermediate – 2/5)

Published by the same company as Humpty Dumpty, this is an educational and fun magazine specifically for boys aged 6 to 12. Each issue is themed, and they look for lively non-fiction stories, puzzles, and activities that fit the theme and are written from a boy’s point of view.

• What they want: Non-fiction articles (up to 750 words) that fit their specific issue themes.
• Pay Rate: A flat rate of $0.05 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their upcoming themes and guidelines here.

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💻 Sites That Pay You to Write About Web & Technology

If you’re a web designer, a developer, a gamer, or just a passionate tech enthusiast, you can get paid well for your expert knowledge.

These publications are looking for in-depth tutorials and sharp analysis on all things digital.

A List Apart (Pro – 4/5)

This is a legendary and highly-respected online magazine for the people who make websites. They publish in-depth articles on web design, development, and user experience. Getting an article published here is a major accomplishment and a huge portfolio booster for anyone in the web industry.

• What they want: Deep, insightful articles on web design, coding, and digital ethics.
• Pay Rate: Ranges from $50 for a mini-article up to $200 for a feature.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Smashing Magazine (Pro – 5/5)

Another giant in the web design and development space, Smashing Magazine is known for its incredibly in-depth, practical tutorials. They are looking for experts who can write definitive guides on technical topics related to front-end development, UX design, and more. They pay very well for quality work.

• What they want: Expert-level tutorials on web development and design topics.
• Pay Rate: Reports suggest pay between $200 and $400 per article, depending on the complexity.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their “Write for Us” page here.

DigitalOcean (Pro – 5/5)

DigitalOcean is a major cloud hosting company, and they pay extremely well for high-quality technical tutorials. This is not for beginners. You need to be a true expert who can write in-depth, step-by-step guides about Linux, cloud infrastructure, and software development.

• What they want: Detailed, complex tutorials about cloud hosting and Linux.
• Pay Rate: Up to $400 for complex technical tutorials.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their “Write for DOnations” page here.

SitePoint (Pro – 4/5)

If you’re a web developer, you probably already know SitePoint. It’s one of the most respected and long-running resources for professional developers and designers. They publish high-quality, in-depth tutorials on a massive range of topics, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP. If you have serious technical expertise, this is a top-tier place to get paid for your knowledge.

• What they want: In-depth technical tutorials for an audience of professional web developers.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate of $150 to $300 per article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their “Write for Us” page here.

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🎨 Sites That Pay You to Write About Art, Crafts & Design

If you’re a passionate artist, a dedicated crafter, or a design enthusiast, you can get paid to write about what you love.

These publications are always on the lookout for expert tutorials, insightful essays, and stories that can inspire their creative audiences.

Arts & Design

Howlround (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is a fantastic online journal for and by the theater community. They are a non-profit and a hub for conversation about theater, performance, and the arts. If you have an insightful essay or a unique perspective on the world of theater, this is a great market.

• What they want: Essays, articles, and criticism about the global theater community.
• Pay Rate: A flat $250 per published piece.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their pitch guidelines here.

Western Art & Architecture (Pro – 4/5)

This beautiful magazine is dedicated to the art and architecture of the American West. It serves a dedicated audience of art collectors and design aficionados. They look for well-written articles that can showcase artists, architects, and unique homes from the region.

• What they want: Artist profiles, home features, and other articles about Western art and architecture.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate between $400 and $600 per article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Crafting & Hobbies

Popular Woodworking (Pro – 4/5)

If you’re a skilled woodworker, this is one of the top magazines in the niche. They are looking for expert-level tutorials, tool reviews, and profiles of other woodworkers. The pay for in-depth, feature-length stories is excellent.

• What they want: Step-by-step woodworking projects, tool reviews, and feature stories.
• Pay Rate: While pay varies, they state they pay up to $250 per published page in the magazine for features.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Ceramics Monthly (Intermediate – 3/5)

As the name suggests, this is the go-to publication for the ceramics community. They cover everything from studio visits and artist profiles to technical how-to guides for making things with clay. They pay a standard per-word rate for their content.

• What they want: Features, artist profiles, and technical articles about ceramics.
• Pay Rate: A flat rate of $0.10 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

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🌱 Sites That Pay You to Write About Farm & Gardening

If you’ve got a green thumb, you can turn your passion for plants into cash.

These respected magazines are looking for writers with real, hands-on experience who can share practical advice on gardening, horticulture, and sustainable farming.

The American Gardener (Pro – 4/5)

This is the official publication of the American Horticultural Society (AHS), making it a highly respected and authoritative magazine in the gardening world. They look for well-researched, engaging articles that are written in an accessible, yet expert, voice. Getting published here is a great credit for any serious garden writer.

• What they want: In-depth articles on gardening techniques, plant profiles, and landscape design.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate of $300 to $600 per feature.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their detailed guidelines here.

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🔍 Sites That Pay You to Write About Niche Topics

Some of the best-paying opportunities are in niche markets that serve a passionate, dedicated audience.

If you have deep expertise or a personal connection to one of these special topics, you can get paid very well for your unique perspective.

Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors (Pro – 4/5)

As the name suggests, this is a magazine dedicated to celebrating the lifestyle of coastal Maine. They cover everything from boating and architecture to stories about the people who live and work there. If you have a deep connection to the Maine coast, this is a great market.

• What they want: Articles (500-1,500 words) about the boating and lifestyle of Maine.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate of $250 to $500 per article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their guidelines here.

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🏞️ Sites That Pay You to Write About Sports & The Outdoors

If you’re passionate about a specific sport or love exploring the great outdoors, you can get paid to write about your adventures.

This is a huge niche with dozens of high-quality magazines that are always looking for writers with real, firsthand experience.

Whether you’re into hiking, hunting, or horse riding, there’s a market for your stories.

Outdoor Adventure (Hiking, Boating & Paddling)

Backpacker Magazine (Pro – 5/5)

This is the leading publication for hiking and backpacking in North America. They are looking for well-written feature articles, destination guides, and personal essays that capture the spirit of adventure. Breaking into this magazine is a huge credit for any outdoor writer.

• What they want: Hiking trip reports, outdoor gear reviews, and skills tutorials.
• Pay Rate: A top professional rate, often reported between $0.40 and $1.00+ per word.
• Submission Guidelines: You must pitch an editor directly. Their guidelines page is a starting point.

WoodenBoat Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

This is a highly respected bi-monthly magazine for wooden boat owners, builders, and designers. If you have deep, technical knowledge about this beautiful craft, this is a fantastic and high-paying market. They look for detailed articles from true experts in the field.

• What they want: In-depth articles on boat design, construction, and repair.
• Pay Rate: They state a pay range of $250 to $300 per 1,000 words.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their detailed guidelines here.

Paddling Magazine (formerly Canoe & Kayak) (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is a major publication that covers all aspects of paddling, from canoeing and kayaking to stand-up paddleboarding. They are looking for inspiring trip stories, destination guides, and gear reviews. They publish both a print magazine and online content.

• What they want: Stories about canoeing, kayaking, and rafting trips.
• Pay Rate: Not publicly listed, but professional rates are standard.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their contributor guidelines here.

Hunting & Fishing

Gray’s Sporting Journal (Pro – 5/5)

This is a high-end, literary-focused journal for hunting and fishing enthusiasts. They are not looking for simple “how-to” articles, but for beautifully written stories and essays that capture the experience of being in the outdoors. They have a reputation for excellence and pay very well.

• What they want: Fly fishing, bird hunting, and big game hunting stories with a strong literary voice.
• Pay Rate: An excellent rate ranging from $600 to $1,250 for features, plus pay for photos.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Sport Fishing Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

This is a top-tier magazine for serious saltwater fishing enthusiasts. They are a professional market and look for writers who have a deep, technical understanding of saltwater fishing techniques, gear, and destinations. This is not a market for casual fishing stories.

• What they want: In-depth articles on saltwater fishing techniques and locations.
• Pay Rate: Ranges from $300 for department articles up to $750+ for major features.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their contributor policies here.

Blade Magazine (Intermediate – 3/5)

As the name suggests, Blade Magazine is the world’s leading publication for all things knives, from collecting to craftsmanship. They are a niche but very passionate market. If you have deep expertise in knives, knife-making, or knife collecting, this is a great place to pitch.

• What they want: Well-researched articles about knives, knife makers, and knife history.
• Pay Rate: Reportedly ranges from $150 to $300 per article.
• Submission Guidelines: You must pitch an editor directly. You can find their writer’s guidelines here.

Equestrian & Horse Life

The Chronicle of the Horse (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is one of the most respected magazines in the equestrian world. They focus on English riding disciplines like dressage, hunters and jumpers, and eventing. They are a professional journalistic outlet and look for well-reported news stories and insightful feature articles.

• What they want: News and feature articles for the English-style horse riding community.
• Pay Rate: Ranges from $165 to $400, depending on the article type.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their detailed guidelines here.

Hoof Beats Magazine (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is the official magazine of The United States Trotting Association, focused on harness racing. It’s a very niche topic, so you need to be a true expert to write for them. They look for in-depth articles that appeal to the owners, trainers, and fans of the sport.

• What they want: Feature stories and analysis on harness racing.
• Pay Rate: Between $100 and $500, depending on the article’s length.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their contact page to submit queries.

BirdWatching Daily Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

This is the definitive magazine for the bird-watching community in North America. They publish a mix of feature articles that help readers identify birds, find great birding locations, and understand bird behavior. They have a reputation for high-quality photography and writing.

• What they want: Articles on bird identification, behavior, and great birding spots.
• Pay Rate: A flat rate of $400 per feature article.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their detailed guidelines here.

Martial Arts

Kung Fu Magazine (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is a long-running magazine (also known as Tiger’s Claw) that is published by a major martial arts supply company. They are looking for writers with real expertise who can write about the training, techniques, history, and philosophy of Chinese martial arts.

• What they want: Content related to all aspects of Chinese martial arts.
• Pay Rate: Not publicly listed. Payment is negotiated upon acceptance.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their submission guidelines here.

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📍 Sites That Pay You to Write About Local & Regional Topics

If you’re an expert on your home state or region, you can turn that local knowledge into cash.

Many state and city based magazines rely on talented freelance writers to tell the stories of their communities.

This is a fantastic market for writers who can find unique, local angles on travel, culture, and lifestyle.

1859 Oregon’s Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

This beautiful magazine is all about celebrating the culture and lifestyle of Oregon. They cover a wide range of topics, from travel and food to home and design, all with a focus on what makes Oregon unique. They are looking for writers who can capture the spirit of the state.

• What they want: Engaging stories about the people, places, and culture of Oregon.
• Pay Rate: A professional rate of $0.30 to $0.50 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Colorado Life Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

As the name suggests, this publication is dedicated to telling the stories of the entire state of Colorado. They are known for their colorful and clever storytelling. They work with freelancers on everything from short, department pieces to major, in-depth feature stories.

• What they want: Entertaining and well-researched stories about life in Colorado.
• Pay Rate: Ranges from $75 for short stories up to $975 for major feature articles.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

South Carolina Living (Intermediate – 3/5)

This is the official lifestyle magazine for the member-owners of South Carolina’s not-for-profit electric cooperatives. They cover a wide range of general interest topics, all with a connection back to life in South Carolina. They have very clear guidelines and pay rates for their different sections.

• What they want: Features on travel, lifestyle, and interesting people in South Carolina.
• Pay Rate: $200 to $450, depending on the section and length.
• Submission Guidelines: Find their contributor guidelines here.

New Mexico Magazine (Pro – 4/5)

This is the official tourism magazine for the state of New Mexico. As such, they are looking for “story ideas about New Mexico experiences.” They favor opinionated, first-person storytelling that can inspire readers to visit the state.

• What they want: Story-driven articles about experiences in New Mexico.
• Pay Rate: A flat rate of $0.35 to $0.40 per word.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

Alaska Magazine (Pro – 5/5)

Alaska Magazine is a long-running and well-known publication famous for its incredible photography and narrative-style articles about life in Alaska. This is a top-tier regional market, and they pay accordingly, especially for writers who are also talented photographers.

• What they want: Epic stories and photo essays that capture life in Alaska.
• Pay Rate: Starts around $250 and can go up to $1,500+ for a major feature with photos.
• Submission Guidelines: Find them here.

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📝 Beginner-Friendly Freelance Writing Platforms

Pitching magazines is a great goal, but it can be intimidating when you’re brand new.

Sometimes, the fastest way to get your first paying client is to use a “freelance marketplace.” These are huge websites where businesses and individuals post writing jobs every single day.

The pay can be lower to start, but these sites are unbeatable for building your portfolio and gaining real-world experience.

Here are my top picks:

Upwork (Beginner – 1/5)

Upwork is the biggest and most well-known freelance marketplace in the world. It has thousands of jobs for writers of every skill level.

You create a profile, search for writing gigs that look interesting, and submit a proposal. It can be competitive, but for many, it’s the place they land their first consistent, paying client.

If you find that Upwork is a good fit for you, there are a number of other sites like Upwork that can provide even more opportunities.

• What it’s best for: Finding a huge variety of legitimate writing jobs, from one-off blog posts to long-term contracts.
• Official Website: Upwork.com

Fiverr (Beginner – 1/5)

Fiverr works a bit differently. Instead of you applying for jobs, you create “gigs” or productized services.

For example, your gig could be “I will write a 500-word blog post for $50.” Clients who need that service then come and buy your gig directly.

And yes, there are some gigs that sell better than the others. So for ideas, check out our list of the best Fiverr gigs that are proven to sell well.

The reason I like Fiverr for beginners is that there are a lot of Fiverr gigs anyone can do to get their first few sales.

And if you find the platform isn’t for you, there are many excellent Fiverr alternatives as well.

• What it’s best for: Selling a specific, repeatable writing service to a huge audience of buyers.
• Official Website: Fiverr.com

Textbroker (Beginner – 1/5)

Textbroker is one of the most well-known content mills, which can be a good starting point for brand new writers.

The pay starts low, but they provide a very steady stream of work.

You can learn more about how it works in my detailed Textbroker review and discover other options with my guide to the best Textbroker alternatives.

Saeed’s Tip

Use these platforms to build your “street cred.” Your main goal isn’t to get rich; it’s to get your first 3-5 five-star reviews.  A good rating on Upwork or Fiverr is a powerful piece of social proof that you can use to land even higher-paying clients off-platform later.

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A Quick Update: What Happened to Some of the Old Fan Favorites?

When I originally published this post, there were many more sites on the list.

And as keep updating this post, I constantly remove the ones that no longer exists or don’t accept submissions anymore.

If you’ve been a freelance writer for a while, you might notice a few big names from the past are missing from this list.

The world of online publishing changes fast, and many magazines have unfortunately shut down or changed their freelance policies.

Here’s a quick update on some of the popular sites that are no longer accepting general freelance submissions:

• Cracked.com: For years, this was one of the best places to get paid for humor writing. After a change in ownership, they shut down their famous writers’ room and no longer accept general pitches in the same way.
• Babble: This popular Disney-owned parenting site was shut down and is no longer publishing new content.
• The Layout: This was a go-to for WordPress tutorials but has since stopped paying for guest contributions.
• Draft Magazine: This popular beer magazine unfortunately ceased publication.

My promise to you is that I will always keep the main list on this page as up-to-date as possible, so you’re only spending your valuable time pitching publications that are actively looking for writers.

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How to Start: Get Your First Paid Writing Gig as a Beginner

Okay, you’ve got the big list.

Now what?

Just sending your articles out randomly to websites and magazines isn’t gonna help you make money.

If I were starting from zero today, this is the exact, step-by-step plan I would follow to land my first paying writing gig.

step 1: Create Your “Instant” Portfolio.

Before you can get a job, you need proof you can write.

You need to show “experience”.

But how do I start freelance writing with no experience?

Don’t worry, this is easy.

Start a free, simple blog on a site like Medium.com.

Write and publish your three absolute best articles on a topic you know and love.

These are now your “writing samples.”

These three articles are now your professional “writing samples” that you will use in your pitches ( even if no one has paid you for it yet).

This is exactly how most successful freelancers get their start.

With these samples, you can start targeting specific, profitable niches. For example, you could focus on learning how to write resumes for money, look for opportunities to earn $100 per guest post, or even decide to make money by writing an eBook.

Step 2: Start with the “Easiest Yes.”

Don’t start by pitching The New York Times.

Start by getting a quick win to build your confidence.

Pick one of the beginner-friendly sites I listed, like Listverse or one of the parenting blogs. These sites are very open to new writers who have a great idea.

Your goal is to get that first “yes” and your first paid credit.

Step 3: Write a Simple, Professional Pitch (Use This Template)

Don’t overthink it. Find the editor’s submission guidelines and follow them exactly.

Don’t overthink it. The goal is to be short, respectful, and make the editor’s job easy.

Here is a simple template you can copy, paste, and adapt.

Please DON’T Submit AI Written Content

Should I use AI to write my articles?

This is a big one. My honest advice is no!

But you can use AI as a tool to help you brainstorm or create an outline, but do NOT submit articles that have been written entirely by an AI.

The publications on this list are paying for your unique human voice, your personal experiences, and your creative ideas.

Most experienced editors can spot AI-generated content from a mile away, and submitting it is the fastest way to get your pitch deleted and your name blacklisted.

Remember that making money as a writer takes hard work and dedication, and while AI may be a useful tool, it cannot replace the value of human creativity and authenticity.

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How Much Should I Charge? A Beginner’s Guide to Writing Rates

This is the hardest part for new writers.

While rates are always negotiable, here is a general idea of what to expect based on your experience level.

Use this as a starting point to know your worth.

• Beginner (0-1 Years Experience): You’re building your portfolio. Focus on getting paid, getting bylines, and getting better.
  
  Typical Rate: $0.05 – $0.15 per word ($50 – $150 for a 1,000-word article)
• Intermediate (1-3 Years Experience): You have a portfolio and some steady clients. You can start being more selective and targeting higher-paying publications.
  
  Typical Rate: $0.15 – $0.35 per word ($150 – $350 for a 1,000-word article)
• Expert (3+ Years Experience / Niche Specialization): You are a recognized expert in a specific, high-value niche (like finance or tech). You can command top dollar.
  
  Typical Rate: $0.40 – $1.00+ per word ($400 – $1,000+ for a 1,000-word article)

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The Freelancer’s Toolkit: My 5 Must-Have Free Resources

Being a successful freelance writer isn’t just about writing.

You also need to be organized and professional.

These are the five free tools I personally recommend to every new writer to help them run their new side hustle like a real business.

• For Error-Free Writing: Grammarly (Free Version). This is non-negotiable. It’s a simple browser extension that will automatically catch your typos and grammatical errors, making your final drafts much more professional.
• For Finding an Editor’s Email: Hunter.io. The free version of this tool helps you find the email addresses for editors at almost any publication, which is crucial for pitching directly.
• For Project Management: Trello. This is how you stay organized. Trello is a simple digital whiteboard where you can track your article ideas, pitches you’ve sent, and articles you’re currently working on.
• For Killer Headlines: CoSchedule’s Headline Analyzer. Your article’s headline is everything. This free tool will analyze your headline ideas and give you a score to help you make them more clickable and powerful.
• For Professional Invoices: PayPal’s Invoicing Tool. When you land a direct client, you need a professional way to bill them. PayPal has a free and easy-to-use invoicing system built right in.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I get it, starting out as a freelance writer can be confusing. Here are my honest answers to the most common questions that beginners ask.

Did You Find This Guide Helpful?

I put a ton of effort into keeping this guide the most accurate and up-to-date resource for writers on the internet. My goal is for this to be a living document.

If you found it valuable, please consider bookmarking it and sharing it with any other aspiring writers you know.

And if you know of a great publication that pay writers online that I missed, please share it in the comments below. I’m always looking for new opportunities to add to the list!

Final Thoughts: Your Writing Career Starts Today

There you have it, a curated, verified list of over 100 real publications that pay you to write on a variety of subjects.

As you can see, the opportunities are out there, from personal essays and funny stories to report style writing on business and tech.

The hardest part of this whole thing is sending that first pitch. It can feel intimidating, but it’s the only way to get started.

My best advice?

Pick just one publication from this list that feels like a good fit for you. Read their articles so you can get a feel for what kind of stuff they like, then write the best post, joke, article, how-to, tutorial, listicle or whatever style of content they want, and submit.

And remember, this list by no means is a complete list. I’ll be adding to this list as I find other online magazines and websites that pay you to blog.