The Best Content Creation Services

1. ContentWriters

ContentWriters is a U.S.-based content agency that delivers publish-ready, human-written content backed by editors and dedicated account managers.

Their standout? You’re not hiring freelancers—you’re plugging into a full editorial process that includes strategy support, SEO best practices, and consistent brand voice alignment.

If you're tired of vetting inconsistent writers or getting AI-spun fluff, this service feels like a breath of fresh air.

How it Works

You start by submitting a content brief via their platform or by working with your account manager directly. For self-service orders, you can upload a topic, guidelines, keywords, and preferred tone.

On managed plans, the team handles everything—from content calendar planning to writer assignment and edits. Every piece is created by a vetted writer, then goes through editing, proofreading, and an AI-detection check before being delivered to you.

You’ll review the draft and can request revisions, but many users report the first draft is already close to final.

Your account manager ensures deadlines are met and can tweak the process as you go.

Ideal Users

• Marketing teams at mid-sized to enterprise companies
• Agencies managing high-volume or white-label client work
• Startups with a clear voice but no time to manage freelancers
• Regulated or complex industries (finance, legal, healthcare)

Key Differentiators

• Strictly Human-Crafted: All writing is done by vetted professionals with zero AI involvement. They even use Originality.ai to audit content before delivery.
• Editorial Oversight: Everything goes through editing and proofreading by a dedicated editorial team.
• Dedicated Account Management: You get a real person to manage projects, track deadlines, and communicate feedback—no chasing freelancers.
• E-E-A-T Expertise: Writers are instructed to include firsthand experience and industry insights to meet Google’s quality standards.
• Scalable Platform: Self-service dashboard for on-demand orders, or fully managed monthly plans with strategy support.

Pricing & Plans

ContentWriters operates on a two-pronged model: self-service for smaller orders and managed plans for companies with ongoing needs.

Here’s how pricing works:

Self-Service:

• Starts at $99 per piece (e.g., 500–700 word blog post)
• Pay-per-article model; no subscription required
• Ideal for occasional or one-off content orders

Managed Services:

• Starts at $2,500/month
• Includes a set number of content units, an account manager, and strategy input
• Designed for businesses with consistent monthly publishing needs

Enterprise Solutions:

• Custom pricing based on volume and services (e.g., hundreds of articles, SEO add-ons, workshops)
• Includes possible integrations with CMS, custom workflows, and team training

You’re not just paying for content—you’re investing in a reliable system that reduces your editorial workload.

Revision rounds and account support are baked into the cost, which positions CW as a premium but low-hassle solution.

What Surprised Me

They take their anti-AI stance seriously. Every article is scanned with Originality.ai, and they promote this as a core value—not a fine print note.

In a time when even agency content feels mass-produced, this commitment to human-written, original content is rare and reassuring.

Especially valuable if your brand is in a YMYL (Your Money, Your Life) category.

Pro Tip

If you’re onboarding with them, share more than just a topic list. Provide your brand style guide, SEO goals, and a few blog examples that match your tone and voice.

Their editors are shockingly good at matching style—when they’re given something solid to work with.

The difference between “good” and “great” content here often comes down to how well you brief them.

If I Could Start Over

I would’ve leaned into their topic ideation service from day one. Their strategists don’t just pitch fluff—they suggest topics based on SEO gaps, seasonal trends, and what actually aligns with your audience journey. I wasted hours planning content calendars that their team nailed in 20 minutes.

Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely—if content quality, consistency, and SEO alignment matter to you long term. It’s not ideal if you’re on a tight budget or need same-day turnarounds, but for marketing teams that want content to feel “done” the first time, it’s worth the investment. Think of it as an extension of your team, not just a vendor.

2. Verblio

Verblio blends the scalability of a content marketplace with the quality control of a boutique agency.

It’s especially well-suited for marketing agencies and in-house SEO teams that want to publish consistently without building an entire writing department.

With vetted U.S.-based writers, flexible subscriptions, and options for AI-assisted content, Verblio lets you scale up or down without compromising quality—or getting bogged down in hiring.

How it Works

Once you create a content request in the Verblio dashboard (including word count, keywords, tone, and any examples), their system matches it with a writer who has relevant experience.

Writers can claim assignments based on fit, and once the content is submitted, you can review, approve, or request unlimited revisions. If you like a writer’s work, you can favorite them to prioritize future assignments.

On the backend, Verblio handles editing, support, and CMS integration (if enabled), so you spend less time managing drafts and more time publishing.

Ideal Users

• Marketing and SEO agencies managing multiple clients
• SaaS companies publishing weekly content
• Affiliate marketers and blog network owners
• Teams needing direct publishing into CMS platforms

Key Differentiators

• Subscription-Based Workflow: Set a monthly word count, get fresh content like clockwork.
• Selective Writer Pool: Only ~4.5% of applicants make it into Verblio’s writing network.
• AI + Human Hybrid Option: Offers lower-cost content by letting AI create first drafts, then hands it off to a human editor.
• Built-in SEO Optimization: Writers follow your keyword guidelines, and you can request on-page structure (e.g., H2s, meta descriptions).
• CMS Integration: Content can be pushed directly to platforms like WordPress or HubSpot.
• Unlimited Revisions: Included at no extra cost across all plans.

Pricing & Plans

Verblio’s pricing is tied to a monthly subscription model, which allows for consistent output and editorial continuity. Here’s how it breaks down:

Standard Human-Written Content:

• ~$0.16/word (e.g., 1,000-word post = ~$160)
• Includes writer compensation, editing, and unlimited revisions

AI-Assisted Content:

• ~$0.06/word
• AI drafts the first version, then a human polishes it
• Great for FAQs, product descriptions, or content refreshes

Self-Service Platform Fee:

• $49.50/month (waived in the first 30 days)
• Gives access to dashboard, writer pool, and support

Managed Service (Custom Quote):

• For clients needing strategy help, account management, or high-volume content
• Includes premium support, topic planning, and possible discounts

This pricing model rewards consistency: if you publish weekly, you’ll get the most ROI from the subscription. But if you just need one blog post every few months, it’s less cost-effective than pay-as-you-go platforms.

What Surprised Me

Verblio quietly offers one of the most transparent AI-human hybrid services I’ve seen.

Unlike other platforms that hide their AI usage, they’re upfront—and the human editing step makes the final product surprisingly solid.

I tested it on a low-priority article, and it needed almost no touch-up. For bulk content like product roundups or FAQ pages, this hybrid tier could be a game-changer.

Pro Tip

Use the “Favorite Writer” feature early. Once you find someone who nails your voice, consistently assign content to them.

Your content quality compounds over time as they learn your preferences. Verblio tracks performance per writer, so it’s easy to build a reliable bench.

If I Could Start Over

I would’ve shared my top-performing blog posts with Verblio’s support team earlier.

When they know what kind of content resonates with your audience, they can match you with writers who specialize in that tone and format. It’s a shortcut to better content results.

Would I Recommend It?

Yes—especially for agencies, SEO teams, or businesses that publish content monthly or more.

It’s not built for one-off content or extremely budget-constrained users, but if you want scalable, SEO-smart writing with minimal hassle, Verblio delivers consistent value.

3. Writing Studio

Writing Studio is a boutique content agency built for businesses that need high-quality, subject matter expert–level writing.

Whether you're in healthcare, SaaS, finance, or any niche where accuracy matters, their network includes writers with credentials like MDs, PhDs, or professional backgrounds in your field.

They’re smaller than some competitors, but they punch way above their weight in terms of precision, consistency, and turnaround speed.

How it Works

After an initial discovery phase (especially for large or recurring projects), you submit content requests through their platform or email.

You’ll specify word count, topic, tone, target keywords, and any source material. From there, Writing Studio assigns your project to a vetted writer with experience in your niche.

Each draft is reviewed by an editor before delivery. You can review the piece, request edits, or provide feedback to fine-tune the voice.

The process is relatively lightweight—most clients communicate with a single point of contact who manages assignments end to end.

Ideal Users

• Healthcare or legal companies needing compliance-ready content
• SaaS or B2B brands with complex product offerings
• Content teams with no internal subject matter writers
• Agencies needing a technical content partner without the agency bloat

Key Differentiators

• Subject Matter Experts: Writers often have advanced degrees or real-world credentials
• Per-Word Pricing Model: Transparent pricing structure with volume discounts
• Quick Turnarounds: Efficient delivery without sacrificing quality
• SEO-Smart Content: Built with ranking and conversion in mind
• Editorial Oversight: Every piece is reviewed for structure, clarity, and tone before delivery
• Boutique Attention: Smaller team means more personalized support and flexibility

Pricing & Plans

Writing Studio uses a straightforward per-word pricing model that rewards bulk orders. There’s no subscription required, and you can do one-off or ongoing projects. Here’s the breakdown:

• <10,000 Words: ~$0.20/word
• 10,000–100,000 Words: ~$0.16/word
• 100,000+ Words: ~$0.15/word

Larger orders can be split into batches or delivered on a content schedule. There are also custom packages available (e.g., monthly blog bundles).

You typically pay upfront unless you’ve built a recurring relationship. Edits are included, and support is responsive—though rush requests may require checking their current queue.

What Surprised Me

Their writers aren’t just “comfortable” with technical topics—they actually understand them. On one project, I submitted a content brief for a complex medical piece, expecting a slow back-and-forth. Instead, the first draft cited clinical studies and used industry-correct language without any hand-holding. That level of accuracy saved me hours of revisions.

Pro Tip

If your content is technical, give them bullet-point outlines or required terminology. Their writers appreciate detailed inputs—and they turn that structure into polished, publishable content with minimal edits.

If I Could Start Over

I would’ve batched my orders to hit a higher word count tier. The volume discount (from $0.20 to $0.16/word) adds up quickly, and it made more sense once I realized I’d need more content long term.

Would I Recommend It?

Yes—especially for industries where getting facts wrong isn’t an option. If you're tired of “generalist” writers fudging details, Writing Studio offers peace of mind.

Not ideal if you need design assets, full campaign strategy, or multimedia—but perfect if you're looking for reliable, research-backed content.

4. Stellar

Formerly known as Crowd Content, Stellar rebranded in late 2024 with a stronger focus on brand consistency, speed, and multi-format content.

It's ideal for businesses that need to pump out content at scale—whether that’s blog posts, product descriptions, or even user-generated videos.

The platform mixes a marketplace-style interface with managed services, letting clients balance affordability and oversight depending on their needs.

How the Workflow Works

You start by onboarding through Stellar’s BrandAlign™ process, which captures your brand guidelines, tone, audience profile, and style preferences. Then you either use the self-serve dashboard to place content orders or work with Stellar’s managed team to plan and assign projects. Writers are selected based on quality tier (e.g., mid-tier or elite), and each draft is submitted through the platform for your review. You can request edits, track progress, or assign repeat work to writers you like. Their AI-powered brief assistant also helps speed up the ordering process if you’re handling bulk content.

Ideal Users

• Agencies or publishers handling large content volumes
• E-commerce businesses needing product descriptions at scale
• SEO teams building out dozens (or hundreds) of landing pages
• Brands looking to combine blogs with video content (e.g., social or UGC)

Key Differentiators

• BrandAlign™ Process: Aligns all freelance output with your brand voice and tone
• Tiered Writer System: Choose between economy, mid-tier, or elite writers depending on budget
• Fast Fulfillment: Can deliver high-volume content in 1–2 days for short-form projects
• Multi-Format Content: Offers both written content and short-form UGC video creation
• Unlimited Revisions: Within reason, most content includes edit rounds at no extra cost
• Brief Creator AI: Helps you quickly create detailed briefs, especially useful for bulk ordering

Pricing & Plans

Stellar offers flexible pricing across different tiers and service models. Here's how it works:

Self-Service Platform:

• Pricing ranges from $0.03/word (entry tier) to $0.16/word (elite tier)
• Pay-per-piece; no mandatory subscription
• Platform fees may apply if monthly spend is low

Managed Services:

• Custom quotes based on content volume and project scope
• Includes project management, writer assignment, and ongoing QA
• Often used for ongoing content calendars or bulk campaigns

Video UGC Services:

• Priced per video or bundled
• Usually flat-rate based on video length and complexity (e.g., testimonial, TikTok-style)

Flex Plans:

• Mix of self-service and managed help
• Good option for teams that want autonomy and occasional oversight

The platform is designed to accommodate everyone from lean SEO teams to enterprise brands populating a full knowledge base. Just be aware: ultra-low pricing may require heavier editing on your side.

What Surprised Me

Stellar isn’t just a rebrand—it’s a real upgrade from the old Crowd Content model. The BrandAlign process helps eliminate the #1 frustration of marketplaces: inconsistent voice. One batch of content actually sounded like it came from our internal writers, which I rarely say about platform-generated content.

Pro Tip

Start with two different writer tiers on the same brief—one mid-tier and one elite. You’ll instantly see the quality delta and know where to invest your budget going forward. Often, elite tier costs a bit more but requires far less revision.

If I Could Start Over

I would’ve uploaded my style guide and sample content before placing the first order. Doing that made a night-and-day difference in tone matching. The earlier you go through BrandAlign, the less “editing pain” you’ll have down the road.

Would I Recommend It?

Yes—especially if you need a lot of content, fast, without totally sacrificing quality.

Stellar works best when you take the time to set clear expectations and use their structure (tiers, brief templates, brand onboarding).

Not ideal if you want heavy strategy help or custom campaign planning, but excellent for execution at scale.

5. Compose.ly

Compose.ly is a high-end content writing platform built for businesses that value polish, precision, and SEO-savvy writing.

Unlike budget platforms, Compose.ly promises a “plug-and-play” solution where you get quality writing without micromanagement.

Their writers are rigorously vetted (only ~1% get in), and the platform blends freelancer access with agency-level support—including optional SEO add-ons and transparent AI-assisted tiers.

How it Works

Clients submit a brief through the Compose.ly platform or via their dedicated account manager.

You can choose human-only or AI-assisted content, depending on your budget and needs. Each project is assigned to a qualified writer, who submits a draft through the platform.

Clients can communicate directly with writers (rare in high-end platforms), request revisions, or ask the account manager to handle coordination.

Managed clients may also receive strategy input, editorial oversight, and ongoing campaign planning—all without long-term contracts.

Ideal Users

• SaaS and B2B companies needing authoritative content
• Marketing teams with moderate-to-large monthly content budgets
• Agencies with demanding clients and no internal writing bench
• Brands that want long-form SEO content without sacrificing tone

Key Differentiators

• 1% Writer Acceptance Rate: Only the most qualified, experienced writers make the cut
• Direct Writer Communication: Chat directly with your writer inside the platform
• No Long-Term Contracts: Monthly flexibility; scale up or down without penalties
• AI Transparency: Clearly separates human-only from AI-assisted content offerings
• SEO-Centric Output: Writers follow detailed briefs and integrate keywords seamlessly
• Managed and Self-Serve Options: Choose DIY or get account support with strategy input

Pricing & Plans

Compose.ly operates on a premium-tier, pay-as-you-go or subscription-based pricing model. Here’s how it breaks down:

Human-Written Content:

• Monthly plans start around $900–$999/month
• Includes a set number of deliverables (e.g., 4–6 blog posts or 6,000–8,000 words)
• One-off orders likely range from $0.10–$0.15/word

AI-Assisted Content Tier:

• Starts at $700/month
• AI generates the base draft, but content is still reviewed and edited by a human
• Best for non-critical content or bulk output on a budget

Hourly Contracts:

• From $50/hour for consulting, editing, or content strategy
• Useful for special projects, interviews, or long-form editing work

SEO Add-ons:

• Optional keyword research, meta descriptions, and optimization for an additional fee
• Also offers content briefs if you want to outsource planning

Compose.ly doesn’t lock you into long-term contracts, which makes it an attractive option for startups and mid-size brands testing a content strategy. Revisions are included, and satisfaction rates are high—but you’ll pay for that level of polish.

What Surprised Me

The drafts consistently arrived ready to publish. I expected some editing back-and-forth, but even technical posts came back clean, on-brand, and SEO-optimized. One post even outranked a competitor in under a month with zero revisions needed. That level of quality right out of the gate is rare.

Pro Tip

Use the onboarding call to get very specific about voice and tone. Their writers can swing formal, witty, technical, or casual—but only if you’re clear upfront. Giving them one or two blog samples of what “great” looks like speeds up alignment big time.

If I Could Start Over

I would’ve trialed both the human-only and AI-assisted plans side by side. The AI-assisted content was better than expected for low-stakes blog posts, and it could’ve saved budget for more strategic pieces that required full human focus.

Would I Recommend It?

Yes—for businesses that treat content as a serious growth asset and want quality without micro-managing freelancers. It’s not a fit for scrappy teams chasing $30 blog posts, but it’s ideal for brands that need reliable, SEO-optimized content delivered without hand-holding.

6. ClearVoice

ClearVoice is a premium content platform that blends freelancer flexibility with project management muscle.

Acquired by Fiverr but operating independently, ClearVoice is geared toward agencies and marketing teams juggling multiple content projects.

It gives you access to a curated freelance talent pool across 200+ industries, and offers a content calendar, workflow tools, and team collaboration features—all built into one sleek interface.

How it Works

You start by submitting a content brief in ClearVoice, either using their built-in templates or your own format.

You can select freelancers directly from the platform or let ClearVoice assign talent based on your goals and budget.

Once content is in production, your team can collaborate internally (commenting, reviewing, approving) while ClearVoice handles all the freelancer coordination behind the scenes.

The platform supports revision requests, deadline management, and even direct messaging with writers. For managed clients, a ClearVoice producer oversees the entire workflow.

Ideal Users

• Agencies managing multiple client content calendars
• Mid-sized brands producing 5+ pieces of content per month
• Teams needing internal collaboration and external writer access
• Content marketers who want visibility into deadlines, drafts, and approvals

Key Differentiators

• Freelancer “CVs” with Portfolios: Browse writers by niche and see published samples
• Collaboration Dashboard: Assign roles to teammates, leave comments, approve drafts
• Flexible Service Models: Choose self-service, managed, or a hybrid “Flex” plan
• Multi-Format Capability: Supports everything from blog posts to whitepapers, ebooks, and infographics
• Content Calendar + Workflows: Plan, assign, and track production all in one place
• HubSpot & CMS Integration: Push content directly to your site or marketing automation tool

Pricing & Plans

ClearVoice pricing depends on the level of service and platform access you choose. Here’s how it typically works:

Self-Service Platform:

• Monthly fees starting around $250–$1,000+
• Gives you access to tools, project dashboards, and freelancer search
• Content cost is separate and paid per assignment

Managed Plans:

• Start around $1,500/month and up
• Includes account management, freelancer selection, QA, and campaign oversight
• Ideal for clients who want ClearVoice to “run the show”

Freelancer Rates:

• Most content falls between $0.10–$0.25/word depending on complexity and writer level
• Top-tier writers (e.g., journalists) may charge more

Flex Plans:

• Mix of self-service and managed help
• Can reduce platform fees with committed monthly content volume

You’ll pay separately for the platform and the content unless you negotiate a bundled package. Pricing transparency is strong, but if you only need a few blog posts per month, the cost can stack up fast.

What Surprised Me

The workflow tools are actually useful. Unlike most platforms where collaboration is an afterthought, ClearVoice is clearly designed for teams. Our content manager, editor, and SEO strategist could all view a piece, leave notes, and track revisions in real-time. It felt more like using Asana or Monday—but built specifically for content.

Pro Tip

Use the freelancer CVs to your advantage. Don’t just rely on ClearVoice to match you—dig into writer portfolios, especially if your niche is technical or tone-sensitive. Once you find a writer you love, ask to keep them on your recurring assignments.

If I Could Start Over

I would’ve committed to a Flex plan from the beginning. We started with self-serve but quickly realized we needed account support. The Flex model gave us just enough hand-holding without a full managed contract, and it saved time juggling freelancers.

Would I Recommend It?

Definitely—for agencies, content teams with approval workflows, and any brand managing more than a handful of pieces monthly. It’s less ideal for solo founders or tiny teams with basic needs, but for any operation that treats content like a pipeline, ClearVoice delivers both structure and scale.

7. Fiverr

Fiverr built its name on quick-turnaround “gigs” for $5, but it’s evolved into a massive digital service marketplace offering everything from SEO blogs to press releases, copywriting, and beyond.

Unlike platforms where you post a job and wait for applicants, Fiverr flips the script: writers post pre-scoped content packages, and you browse, compare, and buy.

It’s ideal when you need content fast, affordably, and without a lot of back-and-forth.

How it Works

You start by searching for a content type—say, “1000-word SEO blog post”—and browsing the available gigs.

Each gig has pricing tiers (Basic, Standard, Premium), delivery timelines, word counts, and extras like keyword optimization or extra revisions. Once you purchase, you’ll fill out a brief, message the freelancer if needed, and wait for the draft.

Revisions can be requested within the gig terms, and if there’s a major issue, you can escalate to Fiverr’s resolution center or use their satisfaction guarantee (on select categories).

Ideal Users

• Solo founders, startups, or budget-conscious marketers
• E-commerce shops needing product descriptions
• Anyone needing fast turnaround on one-off blog posts
• Agencies outsourcing overflow work without retainer commitments

Key Differentiators

• Predefined Gig Packages: Transparent pricing, scope, and delivery time
• Wide Talent Pool: Thousands of writers across niches, languages, and price points
• Seller Ratings & Levels: Freelancers are ranked by experience and client reviews (e.g., Level 1, Top Rated, Pro)
• Fiverr Pro & Business: Higher-end, vetted freelancers and team collaboration tools
• AI-Powered Matching: Fiverr Neo suggests talent based on your needs
• Fast Turnaround: Many writers offer 24–48 hour delivery

Pricing & Plans

Fiverr uses a gig-based pricing model—no subscriptions required. Here’s the breakdown:

Standard Gigs:

• Entry-level writers: $15–$50 for a 500–1,000-word article
• Mid-level writers: $60–$150 for more polished work with SEO options
• Fiverr Pro writers: $100–$500+ for premium long-form or expert content

Fees & Extras:

• Fiverr charges a 5% processing fee (or $2 minimum) per order
• Add-ons may include faster delivery, more revisions, or topic research

Fiverr Business:

• Optional subscription for teams; includes collaboration tools and curated freelancer access
• Monthly fee applies (varies based on usage level)

This model gives you total control over budget and timing, but consistency can vary depending on the seller you choose.

What Surprised Me

Some Fiverr Pro writers are agency-level good. One of our blog posts from a Pro freelancer needed zero edits and hit our tone and keywords better than writers from bigger-name platforms. That said, you get what you pay for—don’t expect that from the $15 gigs.

Pro Tip

Before ordering, message the seller with your brief—even if the gig seems turnkey. Great freelancers will clarify scope and expectations. Also, read reviews carefully; look for mentions of SEO quality, communication, and content originality.

If I Could Start Over

I’d have tested a few $50–$100 writers instead of going ultra-cheap at first. The lowest-tier gigs saved me money but cost time in rewrites. Mid-tier sellers are often significantly better and still affordable.

Would I Recommend It?

Yes—for fast, simple, and affordable content. Fiverr shines when you know exactly what you need and can communicate it clearly.

Just don’t expect deep strategy, brand immersion, or long-term relationships unless you build one manually with a favorite seller.

8. Upwork

Upwork is one of the largest freelance marketplaces in the world. Unlike Fiverr, where freelancers post gigs, Upwork follows a job-posting model: you describe your project, and writers submit proposals.

This setup offers incredible flexibility—you can hire someone for a quick blog post or build a team of ongoing content writers. But with so many freelancers bidding, it takes effort to find the right fit.

The upside? Once you do, the system supports long-term collaboration and scalable content production.

How it Works

You post a job with your project specs (e.g., blog post, whitepaper, SEO experience required), and freelancers submit proposals. You can review their profiles, portfolios, rates, and reviews, then interview or hire directly.

Upwork’s system includes time tracking (for hourly jobs), milestone payments, and chat/file sharing tools. For fixed-price content, payment is held in escrow and released upon approval.

Once you find a great writer, you can rehire them easily—Upwork lets you build a “favorites” list and invite talent to future jobs.

Ideal Users

• Startups or SMBs that want affordable content but can invest time vetting
• Marketing teams managing short-term campaigns or one-off content bursts
• Companies wanting to assemble a freelance team for blog/SEO output
• Agencies needing flexibility in how they pay or hire (hourly vs project)

Key Differentiators

• Massive Talent Pool: Thousands of writers across every niche and price range
• Advanced Filtering: Narrow candidates by language, expertise, location, rating, etc.
• Hourly or Fixed-Price Contracts: Hire how it suits your workflow
• Escrow & Payment Protection: Only release funds when content meets expectations
• Project Catalog + Uma AI: Browse pre-scoped content gigs or get AI-matched with freelancers
• Team Collaboration: Share files, track milestones, and communicate inside the platform

Pricing & Plans

Upwork doesn’t charge upfront for posting a job, but fees are built into transactions. Here’s what to expect:

Content Rates:

• Entry-level freelancers: $0.03–$0.10/word or $15–$30/hour
• Mid-tier: $0.15–$0.25/word or $30–$60/hour
• Expert-level: $100/hour+ or $0.30–$1/word for specialized writing

Client Fees:

• 3% processing fee on all payments
• Upwork Plus (optional): Enhanced reporting, support, and tools for larger hiring needs

Freelancer Fees:

• Freelancers are charged 5–20% service fee, which may affect pricing

Upwork Enterprise:

• For large orgs needing compliance, centralized billing, or managed freelancer pools

Upwork’s structure works best when you’re hiring regularly—it’s great for building a writing bench, but time-consuming if you just need a single blog post.

What Surprised Me

The quality gap is massive. I once got 50+ proposals for a fintech blog post—about 80% were irrelevant or low quality. But the top 2–3? Exceptional. One had written for major banks and had SEO knowledge baked in. When you take the time to vet, the talent is there—you just have to mine for it.

Pro Tip

Write a crystal-clear job post. Include word count, content type, tone, target audience, and SEO goals. Vague posts attract spammy bids; clear ones bring top-tier applicants.

If I Could Start Over

I’d always run a paid test project before committing to a larger batch. I learned the hard way after hiring someone based on a great pitch—but the writing didn’t meet expectations. A $50 test post will tell you everything you need to know.

Would I Recommend It?

Yes—but only if you have the time to screen, test, and manage freelancers. Upwork offers unbeatable flexibility and global reach, but it’s not set-it-and-forget-it. Ideal for marketers who want control over quality and budget—but less so for teams needing a plug-and-play content partner.

9. Contently

Contently is the heavyweight of content production platforms, built from the ground up for large enterprises that treat content like a strategic asset. Unlike marketplaces or DIY dashboards, Contently delivers a full-stack solution: workflow software, performance analytics, and access to a world-class freelancer network (think award-winning journalists and B2B specialists). If your organization has multiple departments, complex compliance needs, and big publishing goals, Contently is likely already on your radar.

How it Works

It starts with a full onboarding process where Contently’s strategists help define your content goals, audience personas, brand voice, and editorial calendar. From there, you manage content through their platform—which includes planning tools, workflow approvals (e.g., legal, compliance), content libraries, and team permissions. Freelancers are matched via their Intelligent Talent Recommendation system. Once assigned, your content goes through multiple layers: writer, editor, and managing editor—before it ever reaches your team. Drafts are reviewed, tracked, and revised inside the platform, and analytics show how each piece performs.

Ideal Users

• Fortune 1000 companies and global brands
• Financial, healthcare, or tech firms with strict compliance workflows
• Large marketing departments with internal stakeholders and regional teams
• Organizations focused on ROI, attribution, and end-to-end visibility

Key Differentiators

• End-to-End Platform: Combines CMS-style tools, approval workflows, and asset management
• Top-Tier Talent: Freelancers with backgrounds in The New York Times, Wired, and major B2B verticals
• Workflow Customization: Legal review, multi-user approvals, and custom publishing stages
• ROI & Analytics Dashboards: Track engagement, attribution, and content value metrics
• Content Strategy Support: Access to content strategists and editorial direction
• Enterprise-Grade Support: SSO, training, compliance-ready infrastructure

Pricing & Plans

Contently operates on an annual license + content spend model, with pricing tailored to each enterprise. Here’s the high-level breakdown:

Platform License:

• Starts around $50,000/year for mid-size enterprises
• Can exceed $200,000/year for large organizations with multiple business units
• Includes access to platform, analytics, workflows, and collaboration tools

Content Budget:

• Separate pool used to pay freelancers
• Freelancers often earn $300–$2,000 per piece, depending on length and complexity

Managed Services Fees:

• Some clients bundle strategy, account management, and content planning
• Others may pay separately for strategic consulting or workshops

There are no small business plans here—it’s enterprise or bust. But the ROI-focused tools are designed to prove content performance to execs.

What Surprised Me

The freelancer quality is unmatched. One writer had bylines in Harvard Business Review and produced a whitepaper that matched the tone, depth, and structure of our best in-house content. For brands that need content to impress legal and the C-suite, this platform delivers.

Pro Tip

Treat your onboarding seriously. The more info you give Contently (audience breakdowns, tone nuances, performance benchmarks), the better their editorial team can shape your entire program—from topics to format strategy.

If I Could Start Over

I’d have involved internal stakeholders from Day 1. The platform’s collaboration tools shine when legal, comms, and marketing are all looped in early. It saves time, avoids bottlenecks, and lets you fully leverage Contently’s workflow power.

Would I Recommend It?

Yes—if you’re running a high-volume, enterprise-grade content operation. Contently is overkill for startups or SMBs, but for brands producing dozens of assets a month, across multiple teams, and needing content that performs and proves ROI, it’s the best-in-class option.