With the rise of the gig economy and remote work opportunities, many people are turning to side hustles to boost their income. Writing online has become one of the most accessible ways to earn extra cash, offering flexibility and creative freedom. If you’re wondering whether writing online could be your part-time job in 2024, let me walk you through my experience and share how much I’ve earned from it.
Why Writing Online Is a Great Option for a Part-Time Job
In today’s digital age, the demand for content is higher than ever. Companies need blog posts, website content, email newsletters, social media posts, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting, there’s room for everyone in this space. Here are some of the key benefits of writing online as a part-time gig:
- Low Entry Barrier: You don’t need a degree in journalism or years of experience to get started. Many platforms allow beginners to write and improve their skills over time.
- Flexible Schedule: One of the biggest advantages is the flexibility. Whether you’re working a 9-to-5 job or managing a household, you can fit online writing around your current schedule.
- Variety of Opportunities: There are numerous ways to earn with writing online—freelance writing, blogging, content creation for businesses, copywriting, technical writing, and even ghostwriting.
- Scalable: Writing online can start as a simple side job, but it has the potential to grow into a full-time income stream if you decide to scale up.
How I Started Writing Online
I began my journey into online writing in late 2020. At first, I didn’t have a clear idea of where it could go or how much I could earn, but I was passionate about writing. I signed up for platforms like Upwork and Fiverr to find freelance writing gigs. I also started contributing to content sites like Medium and wrote guest posts for blogs.
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Initially, the pay wasn’t great. I remember getting paid $20 for my first 500-word article. But as I built my portfolio and developed relationships with clients, things started to pick up. Within six months, I was consistently earning $300–$500 per month from freelance work, all while working part-time.
My Earnings in 2023
Fast forward to 2023, and my online writing income looks much different. Here’s a breakdown of where my income came from this past year:
- Freelance Writing (Blogs, Articles, Web Content): I now work with a few long-term clients who pay me between $100 and $200 per article. I average 6–10 articles per month, which brings in about $1,200–$2,000 monthly.
- Medium Partner Program: While writing on Medium doesn’t generate a huge income, it’s a great passive income stream. My articles continue to earn based on reads and engagement. On average, I make around $200–$300 a month from Medium.
- Affiliate Marketing through Blogging: One of the unexpected ways I’ve grown my writing income is through affiliate marketing. By including affiliate links in my blog posts and product reviews, I earn commissions when readers make purchases through my links. This brought in an extra $500–$800 per month in 2023.
- E-books and Online Courses: As my audience grew, I decided to create a few digital products, like e-books and online courses about content creation. I launched these products toward the end of 2023, and they brought in about $1,000 in the first two months.
Total Average Monthly Earnings in 2023: Roughly $2,500–$3,500.
How Much Could You Earn in 2024?
While my earnings reflect my experience and the time I’ve invested, how much you can make will depend on your skill level, the time you dedicate, and the types of writing gigs you pursue. However, here’s a rough estimate of what you could expect as a beginner in 2024:
- Freelance Writing: Starting rates for freelance writers on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr range from $10 to $50 per article, depending on the niche. With regular gigs, you could easily make $300–$1,000 per month part-time.
- Blogging/Medium: Blogging and writing for platforms like Medium may not pay much in the beginning. However, with consistent quality content and SEO optimization, you can earn $100–$500 monthly within six months.
- Content Mills: While not glamorous, content mills like Textbroker or WriterAccess can provide steady work for beginners. You might make $100–$300 per month as you build your portfolio.
- Copywriting and Ghostwriting: If you specialize in high-paying fields like copywriting or ghostwriting, you can charge premium rates. Even part-time, you could earn $1,000+ per month.
Potential Monthly Earnings for 2024: $500–$2,000 as a beginner, with room to grow depending on your focus and commitment.
How to Get Started in 2024
If you’re thinking about starting a part-time writing gig in 2024, here are some tips to help you get started:
- Build a Portfolio: Even if you don’t have clients yet, write sample pieces that showcase your writing style and expertise. You can also contribute to blogs and platforms like Medium to build credibility.
- Pick a Niche: Writing for every topic under the sun can dilute your brand. Instead, choose a niche that you’re passionate about and knowledgeable in. This will make it easier to find clients and stand out.
- Join Freelance Platforms: Create profiles on freelancing platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer to find potential clients. Be patient, as the first few gigs might not pay much, but it’s an excellent way to gain experience.
- Network: Join online writing communities, LinkedIn groups, and forums where potential clients hang out. Networking can lead to better opportunities and higher-paying gigs.
- Stay Consistent: Writing part-time while juggling other responsibilities requires discipline. Set realistic goals for how many hours you can dedicate per week and stick to them.
Final Thoughts: Is Writing Online Worth It?
Writing online can be a lucrative and fulfilling part-time job in 2024, especially if you enjoy crafting words and working on your own terms. While it may take some time to see significant earnings, persistence, and consistency pay off. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or hoping to transition into full-time freelancing, writing online can be a rewarding option.
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For me, writing online started as a way to make extra income and has since evolved into a key part of my financial stability. Could it be the same for you? Absolutely—2024 could be your year to dive into the online writing world and turn your passion for words into a profitable side job.