Magazines That Pay at Least $1 Per Word for Writing Articles: Sign Up Here!

Freelance writing offers a great way to earn money, especially when you find high-paying opportunities. Many magazines are willing to pay handsomely for quality content. In fact, some publications pay at least $1 per word, making it an attractive option for writers. If you’re interested in getting paid well for your work, here’s a list of magazines that offer competitive rates and how you can sign up to contribute. 

These links will take you to the submission or pitch guidelines for each magazine, allowing you to sign up and start submitting your work. Here are the links to sign up or submit your work to the mentioned magazines:

1. The Sun

The Sun is one of the most respected literary magazines in the U.S. It’s known for its high-quality, thought-provoking pieces. If you’re a writer with a passion for personal essays, memoirs, and creative nonfiction, The Sun is an excellent choice. The magazine pays between $300 to $2,000 for non-fiction articles, depending on the length and complexity.

How to Sign Up: Visit The Sun’s website and go to the “Submit" section. They accept submissions online, making it easy for you to send your work. Keep in mind that they don’t accept simultaneous submissions, so you’ll need to wait for a response before submitting elsewhere. 

2. Smithsonian Magazine

Smithsonian Magazine offers incredible opportunities for writers who enjoy topics like history, science, and culture. They pay well for both short pieces and feature-length articles. Writers can expect to earn at least $1 per word, with some assignments paying even more.

How to Sign Up: You can pitch your article ideas to Smithsonian editors via email. Make sure to craft a compelling pitch that outlines your unique perspective on the topic. Include previous writing samples to demonstrate your expertise.

3. VQR (Virginia Quarterly Review)

VQR is known for publishing high-quality literary journalism, poetry, and essays. They’re willing to pay top dollar for well-researched and deeply engaging content. Writers can earn $1,000 to $4,000 per feature article, depending on length and depth.

How to Sign Up: Submit your work through VQR’s online portal. They accept both solicited and unsolicited submissions, so you can send your completed piece or pitch an idea. Be prepared for a competitive process, as VQR only publishes the best.

4. The New Yorker

The New Yorker is a prestigious publication that values high-quality journalism and literary work. They often feature articles on politics, culture, and humor, making it an excellent platform for experienced writers. The magazine pays at least $1 per word, with seasoned contributors earning much more.

How to Sign Up: Submitting work to The New Yorker can be challenging, but it’s worth the effort. You’ll need to pitch your idea to one of their editors. If accepted, you’ll join the ranks of some of the most respected writers in the industry.

5. The Atlantic

The Atlantic covers a broad range of topics, including politics, culture, and technology. Writers who can craft compelling stories backed by thorough research will find this publication rewarding. The Atlantic pays around $1.50 per word for well-written articles.

How to Sign Up: You can submit your pitch via email to one of the magazine’s editors. Make sure to explain your angle and include writing samples to boost your chances of acceptance.

6. National Geographic

National Geographic is globally recognized for its in-depth reporting on science, geography, and world culture. It offers writers the opportunity to explore fascinating subjects while earning a good income. Writers can expect to earn between $1 and $2 per word.

How to Sign Up: You’ll need to pitch your idea directly to an editor at National Geographic. Be sure to present a unique angle on the topic and provide examples of your previous work. The magazine values originality, so your pitch should stand out.

7. The American Scholar

The American Scholar is a quarterly magazine that publishes essays, articles, and poetry. It focuses on literature, politics, and the arts, offering writers a chance to explore deep, intellectual topics. The publication pays around $1 per word.

How to Sign Up: Submit your work through their online submissions portal. The American Scholar encourages thoughtful and well-researched content, so be prepared to put in the effort to meet their standards.

8. ROVA Magazine

ROVA focuses on stories about road trips, van life, and travel. If you enjoy writing about adventure and the open road, this publication is a perfect fit. Writers earn about $1 per word for published articles.

How to Sign Up: To contribute to ROVA, you can submit your pitch or finished piece through their website. Make sure your article resonates with the adventurous spirit of the magazine’s readership.

9. Guideposts

Guideposts publishes inspiring, uplifting stories that center around personal growth, spirituality, and faith. They pay writers at least $1 per word for personal essays and feature stories.

How to Sign Up: You can submit your article directly on the Guideposts website. They accept both unsolicited manuscripts and pitches, making it accessible for writers at all levels.

10. One Story

One Story is a literary magazine that publishes one story per issue. Writers who specialize in short fiction will find this magazine appealing. They pay $500 for each story they publish, which typically works out to $1 per word.

How to Sign Up: Submit your short story through One Story’s online portal. They are always open to submissions and are looking for unique, compelling narratives that engage readers from start to finish.

In Conclusion

Getting paid $1 or more per word is possible when you target the right magazines. The key to success is to research each publication thoroughly, understand their submission guidelines, and craft a pitch that resonates with their editors. Whether you’re writing about travel, culture, science, or personal experiences, these magazines offer the opportunity to turn your passion for writing into a lucrative career. So, go ahead and sign up with the publications that align with your interests!