Get Paid to Write: 4 Legit Sites Paying $100 to $1,000 Per Article
Finding freelance writing gigs that pay well can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Many platforms offer pennies per word, making it tough to build a sustainable career. But what if you knew where to find reputable sites that value quality content and are willing to pay $100, $300, or even $1,000 for a single article?
You're in the right place. We’ve rounded up four established websites actively looking for talented writers. Whether you're an expert in marketing, a history buff, a foodie, or a storyteller, there’s an opportunity here for you.
Let's dive in.
1. Listverse
The Niche
If you love bizarre facts, hidden history, or fascinating trivia, Listverse is the ultimate platform for you. This site is dedicated entirely to "listicles"—articles structured as a top-10 list. Topics range from science and history to pop culture and the downright weird.
What They Pay
Listverse offers a flat rate of $150 per accepted article.
What They're Looking For
Your mission is to create a unique, well-researched list with at least 10 items. Articles should be between 1,500 and 2,000 words. The key here is originality and accuracy; they want lists that readers haven't seen a dozen times before, and every fact must be verifiable. Plagiarism is strictly forbidden.
How to Submit
You submit a completed draft, not just a pitch, through their online form. Be sure to include your sources for their fact-checking process.
2. Upworthy
The Niche
If you're passionate about telling stories that matter, Upworthy is your stage. The platform focuses on uplifting, human-interest stories that inspire positive change. Think viral "feel-good" content that centers on social justice, kindness, and progress.
What They Pay
Upworthy pays $150 per story. Even better, if your article performs well enough to be promoted on their main Facebook page, you’ll receive an additional $50 bonus.
What They're Looking For
They want compelling narratives between 800 and 1,200 words. Your story should align with their mission of spreading positivity and awareness. A powerful, shareable headline is crucial, as their goal is to create content that resonates widely on social media.
How to Submit
You can pitch your idea and share writing samples through their dedicated contributor portal.
3. Serious Eats
The Niche
For the foodies, culinary experts, and storytellers who find meaning in a shared meal, Serious Eats has a home for your work on its premium Medium publication. This is the place for deep dives into cooking, compelling food essays, and rich cultural features.
What They Pay
They offer $100 per article or essay.
What They're Looking For
Articles can range from 800 to 2,000 words. They aren't just looking for recipes; they want original essays, expert explorations of cooking techniques, or engaging personal narratives connected to food. A strong, knowledgeable voice is essential.
How to Submit
To get started, email the editor with a concise pitch, a brief outline of your proposed article, and links to your best relevant work (clips).
4. Copyhackers
The Niche
Are you a marketing pro or a conversion copywriting wizard with a success story to share? Copyhackers is one of the most respected blogs in the industry, and they pay top dollar for expert insights into marketing, startups, and, of course, copywriting.
What They Pay
This is the highest-paying site on our list, with rates from $300 to a whopping $1,000 per article. The final amount is based on the depth, originality, and value of your piece.
What They're Looking For
They want in-depth, first-person case studies and tutorials that are 2,000+ words. Your article must be highly actionable, packed with data, screenshots, and step-by-step instructions that other professionals can follow to achieve similar results.
How to Submit
You can submit your idea through the "Pitch Your Guest Post" form on their website.
A Quick Comparison
To help you decide where to focus your energy, here’s a summary of all four platforms.
| Website | Niche/Topics | Pay Rate | Word Count | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Listverse | Top-10 lists on trivia, history, science | $150 per list | 1,500–2,000 | Unique top-10 lists with verified facts. |
| Upworthy | Human-interest, social impact stories | $150 + $50 bonus | 800–1,200 | Uplifting, socially conscious narratives. |
| Serious Eats | Food essays, cooking features | $100 per essay | 800–2,000 | Original food writing with an expert or personal voice. |
| Copyhackers | Marketing, copywriting tutorials | $300–$1,000 | 2,000+ | Actionable, data-backed copywriting case studies. |
Final Thoughts
There you have it—four excellent platforms ready to pay for high-quality content. The key to getting accepted is to move beyond a generic pitch. Take the time to read their articles, understand their voice, and tailor your idea specifically to their audience.
So, pick a site that aligns with your expertise, craft a compelling pitch, and start earning what you're worth. Good luck