Publishing a business book is one of the most powerful ways to establish yourself as a thought leader, build credibility, and create opportunities for your career or company. But writing a book takes time, discipline, and a lot of skill—something many busy entrepreneurs and executives simply don’t have enough of.

That’s where ghostwriting services come in. A professional ghostwriter takes your ideas, experiences, and expertise and turns them into a compelling, well-structured book under your name. It’s a collaborative process where the ghostwriter captures your voice and vision while handling the heavy lifting of research, writing, and revisions.

However, one of the first questions most people ask is: “How much does it cost to hire a business book ghostwriter in 2025?”

The truth is, prices vary dramatically, ranging from a few thousand dollars to over $150,000. Let’s dive into what influences these costs, the different pricing models ghostwriters use, and what you should expect to invest if you’re serious about creating a high-quality business book.

The Average Cost of Business Book Ghostwriting in 2025

Ghostwriting costs in 2025 fall into a wide range depending on the writer’s experience, the project’s complexity, and the level of service provided. On the lower end, you may find freelance ghostwriters charging $8,000–$25,000 for a shorter book, while at the top end, bestselling ghostwriters may charge $150,000+ for their expertise.

Here’s a breakdown of the three main tiers you’ll encounter:

1. Beginner or Freelance Business Ghostwriters

• Cost Range: $8,000 – $25,000 (30,000–50,000 words)
• Who They Are: Writers who are new to ghostwriting or still building their portfolio.
• Strengths: They often bring enthusiasm and affordability, making them a good choice for budget-conscious clients.
• Drawbacks: They may lack experience in the business genre or the polish of seasoned professionals. Careful vetting of samples and references is essential.

2. Mid-Level Professional Business Ghostwriters

• Cost Range: $25,000 – $75,000 (50,000–80,000 words)
• Who They Are: Established professionals with several projects under their belt, often specializing in business or nonfiction.
• Strengths: Strong storytelling skills, ability to conduct interviews, and a track record of delivering polished manuscripts.
• Drawbacks: They cost more than freelancers, but their experience usually justifies the investment.

3. Expert or High-Profile Business Ghostwriters

• Cost Range: $75,000 – $150,000+
• Who They Are: Elite ghostwriters with bestselling books, celebrity clients, or significant industry recognition.
• Strengths: They bring credibility, polish, and a proven formula for creating market-ready business books.
• Drawbacks: High cost and limited availability. Hiring them often involves long waitlists.

Key Factors That Influence Business Ghostwriting Costs

No two ghostwriting projects are priced exactly the same. Several elements shape the overall cost of your business book:

1. Length and Complexity of the Manuscript

• Length: A short book or eBook under 20,000 words may cost significantly less than a full 70,000–80,000 word book.
• Complexity: Writing about leadership principles is less research-intensive than tackling highly technical subjects like blockchain, biotech, or advanced finance. Niche, data-heavy content requires more expertise, which raises costs.

2. Research and Interviews

• If you already have notes, outlines, and existing content, the ghostwriter can focus on structuring and polishing.
• If all your ideas are still “in your head,” the ghostwriter will need to conduct multiple interviews, analyze case studies, and handle extensive research. This additional workload adds to the price.

3. Ghostwriter’s Experience and Reputation

• A writer who has worked on bestsellers or written for high-profile executives commands premium rates.
• Writers with industry-specific expertise also tend to charge more, as they bring deeper insights into the subject matter.

4. Project Timeline

• A book written over a year gives the ghostwriter flexibility and often comes at a standard rate.
• A book that needs to be completed in three to four months usually incurs a rush fee, since the ghostwriter must prioritize your project over others.

Common Pricing Models for Business Ghostwriting

Ghostwriters structure their fees in different ways. Understanding these models will help you choose the one that fits your budget and expectations.

1. Flat Fee (Most Common)

This is the standard for full-length books. Both you and the ghostwriter agree on a set price for the entire project. Payments are often broken down into installments tied to milestones, such as contract signing, outline approval, and manuscript completion.

• Beginner: $8,000 – $25,000
• Mid-level: $25,000 – $75,000
• Expert: $75,000 – $150,000+

2. Per-Word Rate

Some ghostwriters charge per word, though this is more common for articles or shorter projects. In 2025, business book ghostwriters typically charge $0.50 – $3.00+ per word.

• A 60,000-word book could cost anywhere from $30,000 to $180,000, depending on the writer’s expertise.

3. Hourly Rate

This model is less common for entire books but is sometimes used for consulting, revisions, or smaller tasks. Hourly rates usually range from $50 to $200+ per hour.

• A full book may require 200–500+ hours, which could total $15,000 – $100,000+.

Cost Comparison Table

Here’s a quick comparison of ghostwriting pricing models in 2025:

 

Pricing Model	Range	Example for a 60,000-word Book
Flat Fee	$8,000 – $150,000+	$25,000 – $75,000 for most mid-level writers
Per Word	$0.50 – $3.00+	$30,000 – $180,000
Per Hour	$50 – $200+	$15,000 – $100,000+

 

What Does a Business Ghostwriting Fee Include?

When you hire a ghostwriter, you’re paying for much more than words on a page. A typical ghostwriting package includes:

• Initial consultations and brainstorming sessions
• Interviews with you (and sometimes colleagues or clients)
• Developing a detailed outline and structure
• Writing and drafting the manuscript
• Multiple rounds of revisions based on your feedback
• Ongoing communication and updates
• Polishing, proofreading, and preparing the manuscript for editing

Additional Costs to Consider Beyond Business Ghostwriting

Hiring a ghostwriter is just one part of the book creation process. To bring your business book to life and into readers’ hands, you’ll likely need to budget for:

• Editing & Proofreading: Even after ghostwriting, a fresh editor ensures quality. ($1,000 – $5,000+)
• Cover Design: A professional, eye-catching cover is essential. ($200 – $1,500)
• Book Formatting: Preparing your manuscript for print and eBook platforms. ($500 – $2,000)
• Marketing & Promotion: PR, advertising, and launch campaigns vary widely in cost but are crucial for reaching your audience.

Why Business Book Ghostwriting is Worth the Investment

At first glance, the numbers might seem high. But a business book isn’t just another expense—it’s an investment in your brand and long-term influence.

Here’s what a well-written business book can do:

• Position you as a thought leader in your industry
• Open doors to speaking engagements and media features
• Build trust with clients, investors, and partners
• Generate new business opportunities
• Create a lasting legacy of your expertise

For many professionals, the credibility and authority a book provides far outweigh the upfront costs of ghostwriting.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, hiring a ghostwriter for your business book can cost anywhere from $8,000 on the low end to $150,000+ on the high end, depending on the ghostwriter’s experience, the book’s complexity, and the chosen pricing model. Flat fees are most common, but some writers also work on per-word or hourly rates.

While the investment is significant, the return can be even greater. A professionally written business book not only captures your expertise but also establishes your authority, attracts opportunities, and strengthens your personal and professional brand.

If you’re ready to share your insights but don’t have the time or skill to craft a full manuscript, hiring a ghostwriter could be the smartest decision you make in 2025.