health and wellness | February 14, 2026

How much do copy editors get paid?

How much do copy editors get paid?

Average Salary for a Copy Editor Copy Editors in America make an average salary of $47,975 per year or $23 per hour. The top 10 percent makes over $72,000 per year, while the bottom 10 percent under $31,000 per year.

How much are copy editors paid per hour?

Hourly Wage for Copy Editor – Web Salary

PercentileHourly Pay RateLocation
25th Percentile Copy Editor – Web Salary$30US
50th Percentile Copy Editor – Web Salary$34US
75th Percentile Copy Editor – Web Salary$39US
90th Percentile Copy Editor – Web Salary$44US

How much does a freelance copy editor make?

Freelance Copy Editor Salaries

Job TitleSalary
Freelancer Freelance Copy Editor salaries – 2 salaries reported$26/hr
Penguin Random House Freelance Copy Editor salaries – 2 salaries reported$37/hr
Simon & Schuster Freelance Copy Editor salaries – 2 salaries reported$31/hr

How much do digital editors make?

Average Salary for a Digital Editor Digital Editors in America make an average salary of $68,846 per year or $33 per hour. The top 10 percent makes over $97,000 per year, while the bottom 10 percent under $48,000 per year.

How do I become an online copy editor?

To become a copy editor, use these steps as a guide to start your career:

  1. Pursue a college degree.
  2. Read and write regularly.
  3. Explore different specialties.
  4. Learn various style guides.
  5. Build a portfolio through freelance.
  6. Gain certifications.
  7. Build a polished resume.
  8. Market yourself.

Do copy editors make good money?

At a scientific or technical consulting service, a copy editor can earn almost $62,000 a year. At a navigational or control instruments manufacturer, a copy editor averaged $64,490 a year.

Where do copy editors make the most money?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median wage for book editors was $61,370 in May 2019 with the highest salaries being paid to editors in New York and Los Angeles.

Is being a copy editor a good career?

People with a good eye for detail who enjoy reading and correcting errors may be able to build a successful career as a copy editor. Copy editors need to be meticulous and focused to help their team produce flawless pieces of writing.

How much do proofreaders make an hour?

The average hourly wage for a Proofreader in the United States is $26 as of October 29, 2021, but the range typically falls between $23 and $30. Hourly rate can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.

What is the demand for editors?

Job Outlook Employment of editors is projected to grow 5 percent from 2020 to 2030, slower than the average for all occupations. Despite limited employment growth, about 11,200 openings for editors are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Is a copy editor a good career?