Content Strategists on Upwork cost $35–$65/hr.

Learn about common cost factors to budget your hiring on the world's work marketplace.
Content Strategists average prices bell curve

$35 $65

Median hourly rates (USD)*

Content Strategist Pay Guide

How much does a content strategist make in 2024?

Content strategists play a key role in shaping the voice and direction of a brand’s content. These professionals typically earn between $72,000 and $110,000+ annually, according to ZipRecruiter. A content strategist helps businesses create cohesive content strategies, ensuring messaging aligns with company goals and reaches the right audience. Understanding the salary range and hourly rates will help you budget accordingly when hiring a content strategist.

Annual salary

The salary of a content strategist can vary based on factors like experience, industry, and geographic location:

  • Beginner: $72,000 per year
  • Intermediate: $93,586 per year
  • Top earners: $110,000+ per year

Hourly pay

For those looking to hire on an hourly basis, content strategists’ rates are also influenced by their expertise and the project requirements:

  • Beginner: $35 to $45 per hour
  • Intermediate: $45 to $53 per hour
  • Top earners: $53 to $65 per hour

These figures may fluctuate depending on the project’s complexity and whether the role is full-time, part-time, or freelance.

Factors influencing content strategist salary

Several factors affect a content strategist salary, and being aware of them can help you make an informed hiring decision.

Experience level

More experienced content strategists usually command higher rates. They bring in-depth knowledge of content development, SEO integration, and audience engagement - ensuring a company’s content resonates with its target market.

Industry

Content strategists working in industries with high demand for specialized content, such as tech or finance, typically earn more. Their ability to craft content that addresses complex topics and meets industry-specific regulations increases their value.

Company size and budget

Larger organizations often require more advanced content strategies, which can result in higher salaries. Smaller businesses may not need as extensive a strategy, allowing them to work with beginners or intermediates at lower rates. 

Geographic location

Location can also impact how much a content strategist makes. Those in major metropolitan areas or tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, or Seattle often earn more due to higher demand and living costs.

Common responsibilities of a content strategist

Content strategists work on a variety of projects, each requiring a unique approach to content development and strategy. Here are some of the typically responsibilities:

  • Content planning and development. Content strategists create plans that align with a company’s goals, ensuring content is both engaging and purposeful.
  • SEO integration. Crafting content that ranks well on search engines is essential. Strategists ensure that the content is optimized for keywords while maintaining readability.
  • Audience research. Understanding the target audience is key. Content strategists analyze market trends and audience behaviors to ensure content resonates with readers.
  • Content auditing. Strategists perform content audits to assess how existing content performs and recommend improvements to boost engagement.

Negotiating salary with content strategists

When hiring a content strategist, salary negotiations can often reflect the scope and urgency of your content needs. It’s crucial to outline the project goals and expectations early to ensure both parties are aligned. For companies seeking specialized skills or high-impact projects, expect to offer compensation at the higher end of the range.

Additionally, many businesses offer bonuses tied to performance metrics, such as audience growth or increased conversions from content. This structure can motivate content strategists to create more effective strategies, directly impacting business goals while ensuring fair compensation.

Content strategist FAQ

How long does it take to see results from a content strategist’s work?

Results from a content strategist’s efforts often take 3 to 6 months to materialize. This timeline depends on the project scope and the specific goals of the content strategy, such as SEO improvement or brand awareness growth.

Is freelance work for content strategists more lucrative than full-time employment?

Freelance work can sometimes be more lucrative, especially for expert-level content strategists who take on multiple clients or projects. Freelancers often have the ability to set their own rates and may earn more per hour compared to a salaried content strategist. However, freelancers may also face periods of inconsistent work, which can affect overall earnings.

How can content strategists increase their earning potential?

To increase earning potential, content strategists can focus on gaining certifications, developing expertise in high-demand areas like data-driven content strategy, and building a strong portfolio. Networking and expanding their client base can also lead to higher-paying opportunities, especially in freelance work.

Hire content strategists on Upwork

Finding the right content strategist can significantly impact your brand’s success. Whether you’re looking for a full-time strategist or someone to help with a specific project, Upwork connects you with top talent from around the world. Browse profiles, review portfolios, and hire a content strategist who can elevate your messaging, drive engagement, and help achieve your business goals. Get started on Upwork today and take your content strategy to the next level.

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