Video Editors on Upwork cost $10–$60/hr.

Video editing skills are in high demand in today’s digital world. Businesses and content creators rely heavily on engaging video content to reach their audiences. From wedding videos to music videos and YouTube content, skilled editors play a crucial role in shaping the final product during post-production. Their expertise can transform raw footage into compelling visual stories that captivate viewers across various platforms.

We’ll run through some general cost factors to help you frame your budget for a video editor.

Salary range

According to Glassdoor, professional video editors in the United States earn an average annual salary between $51,000 and $93,000, with a median salary of $66,000. This range reflects various factors such as years of experience, location, and industry specialization.

Video editors working in major media hubs like Los Angeles or New York may charge higher rates due to the increased cost of living and concentration of opportunities in these areas. 

Those employed full-time by a production company may earn different compensation than freelance video editors.

Hourly rate

Video editing rates typically fall within these ranges:

• Entry-level. $15 to $30 per hour
• Intermediate. $30 to $60 per hour
• Expert. $60 to $150+ per hour

Freelance editor rates can fluctuate based on project scope, turnaround time, and required technical skills. Experienced video editors specializing in niche areas like VFX or 3D animation often charge premium rates for their expertise. Some editors may also offer a day rate for longer projects.

What affects the cost of video editing? 

Several factors can influence the overall cost of your video editing project. Understanding these elements can help you budget and set realistic expectations. Key factors that typically affect video editing rates include:

• Type of project. Different video types require varied editing approaches. For instance, a motion picture may demand more intricate editing than a corporate video, affecting the overall cost.
• Project complexity and length. More complex projects with multiple scenes or longer durations generally require more editing time and effort, increasing the cost.
• Required technical skills. Specialized techniques like motion graphics or color correction often command higher rates due to the additional expertise required.
• Turnaround time. Faster delivery times may incur rush fees, as editors might need to prioritize your project over others.
• Raw footage quality and organization. High-quality source material can streamline the editing process, potentially reducing costs.
• Additional video editing services. Extra services like sound design or voiceover editing can add to the overall project cost but may enhance the final product.
• Editor’s skill level and portfolio. More experienced editors with impressive portfolios typically charge higher rates for their expertise and track record.
• Software and equipment requirements. Specialized software or high-end equipment needs can influence the cost, especially for complex projects.
• Number of revisions included. The more revision rounds included in the initial quote, the higher the overall cost might be to account for additional editing time.

Example video editing roles

Video editors often specialize in specific areas to meet diverse client needs as the industry evolves. Here are five common video editing roles:

• Commercial video editor. This professional specializes in cutting and assembling footage for advertisements, promotional videos, and marketing campaigns. Commercial video editors excel at creating compelling, concise narratives that capture the audience’s attention. They often work within strict time constraints and must adhere to specific brand guidelines while delivering impactful messages.
• Film and TV editor. Film and TV editors work on long-form content, including feature films, documentaries, and television series. These editors are skilled in storytelling over extended durations, managing complex narratives, and maintaining viewer engagement throughout longer pieces. They often collaborate closely with directors to realize their creative vision and may spend months refining a single project.
• Motion graphics editor. This role combines video editing with animation and graphic design to create dynamic visual content. Motion graphics editors are proficient in editing software and animation tools, allowing them to enhance videos with eye-catching graphics, titles, and visual effects. Their work elevates the overall production quality and helps convey complex information in visually appealing ways.
• Social media video editor. Social media video editors specialize in creating short-form, engaging content optimized for various social media platforms. These professionals are adept at crafting attention-grabbing videos that perform well in fast-paced social media environments. They often work with vertical video formats and must stay current with platform-specific requirements and trends.
• Corporate video editor. Corporate video editors produce internal communication videos, training materials, and event highlight reels for businesses. These editors excel at presenting information clearly and professionally, often working with talking head interviews, screen recordings, and corporate branding elements. They aim to create business-oriented content that informs, educates, or motivates specific audiences.

Video editor FAQ

Video production can raise several questions for both clients and freelancers. We answer some frequently asked questions.

What software do most video editors use?

Popular video editing software includes Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Avid Media Composer. The choice often depends on the editor’s preference and the type of video being produced.

How long does it typically take to edit a five-minute video?

Editing time varies based on project complexity, but a general rule of thumb is one to four hours of editing per finished minute of video. For a five-minute final video, this could range from five to 20 hours.

Can video editors work remotely?

Many video editors work remotely. With cloud storage and file-sharing technologies, editors can collaborate with clients and team members from anywhere in the world.

What should I look for in a video editor’s portfolio?

Look for diversity in project types, attention to pacing and transitions, effective use of music and sound design, and overall storytelling ability that aligns with your project needs. Work samples demonstrate an editor’s know-how.

How do I prepare my footage for a video editor?

Organize your footage into clearly labeled folders, provide any necessary project assets (logos, music, etc.), and create a detailed brief outlining your vision and expectations for the final product.

Hire video editors on Upwork

Upwork connects you with talented video editors from around the globe. Browse profiles, review portfolios, and find the right match for your project. 

Some editors offer fixed rates, while others prefer an hourly rate. Newer editors may charge a lower rate to build their portfolio. Sign up now to post your video editing job and collaborate with skilled professionals who can turn your vision into reality.