What does the average author make? This question often puzzles many aspiring writers who dream of making a living from their craft. The truth is, the income of an author can vary greatly depending on various factors such as genre, publishing platform, and marketing efforts. In this article, we will explore the average earnings of authors and the factors that contribute to their income.
Firstly, it is essential to understand that the average author does not necessarily refer to a full-time author who earns a steady income. Many authors supplement their income with other jobs or rely on their earnings from writing as a side hustle. According to a survey conducted by the Authors Guild, the average annual income for professional authors in the United States was $36,000 in 2019. However, this figure can be misleading as it includes authors who have multiple sources of income.
When considering the income of an author, it is crucial to differentiate between self-published authors and traditionally published authors. Self-published authors have more control over their earnings but also bear the responsibility of marketing and promoting their work. On average, self-published authors earn around $10,000 per year, but this number can vary significantly depending on the genre, quality of the book, and the author’s marketing efforts.
Traditional publishers offer authors a contract that includes an advance against royalties, which can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the author’s reputation and the book’s potential. After the advance is paid, authors receive a royalty for each book sold. Royalties vary based on the percentage agreed upon in the contract, which typically ranges from 10% to 20% of the book’s price. For a traditionally published author, the average income can be around $15,000 to $25,000 per year, but this number can increase with multiple book sales and successful marketing campaigns.
Several factors can impact an author’s income, including the genre of the book, the size of the readership, and the author’s platform. Genre plays a significant role in determining an author’s income, as certain genres, such as romance or mystery, tend to have larger readerships and, consequently, higher sales. Additionally, authors with a strong social media presence or a loyal following can command higher advances and royalties due to their ability to market their books effectively.
In conclusion, the average author’s income can vary widely, with self-published authors earning around $10,000 per year and traditionally published authors earning between $15,000 to $25,000. Factors such as genre, readership, and marketing efforts play a crucial role in determining an author’s earnings. While writing may not be a lucrative profession for everyone, many authors find satisfaction and success in their craft, regardless of their income.
