Maximize Your Earnings as a Video Editor: How to Price Your Services Effectively

The amount a video editor charges in 2023 varies depending on several factors such as their experience, the type of project, the complexity of the project, and the client’s budget.

As of 2023, the average hourly rate for a freelance video editor is around $50 to $150 per hour. For a small project, a video editor may charge a flat fee of $500 to $2000. For larger projects, the fee may be negotiated based on the length of the project, the number of revisions requested, and the type of post-production work required.

Video editors with more experience and specialized skills can charge higher rates, typically starting at $100 to $200 per hour. Meanwhile, video editors who are just starting out or who have limited experience may charge lower rates to build their portfolio and gain experience.

The type of project also affects the rate a video editor charges. For example, a simple explainer video may cost less than a complex commercial or a feature-length film. The complexity of the project, including the number of cuts, special effects, and graphics, will also impact the rate charged by the video editor.

The client’s budget is also a factor in determining the rate a video editor charges. If a client has a limited budget, the video editor may have to adjust their rate or the scope of the project. On the other hand, if a client has a higher budget, the video editor may be able to charge a higher rate and offer more services.

Fixed video editing rate versus an hourly rate in 2023

Most video editors work on a fixed fee system. Or they use a monthly subscription package that include a certain number of videos.

Using fixed video editing charges means that you always know in advance how much your video will cost. In contrast to hourly rates, where you might have an idea of how much the total will be but you don’t know the exact rate.

It is wholly based on the client’s requirements whether they choose an hourly or fixed rate to edit a video.

Video editing hourly rates

According to the data above, a video editor’s hourly rate will range between 25 USD and 45 USD for a beginner, 55 USD to 80 USD for an advanced video editor, and between 80 USD and 100 USD for an expert.

It depends on the project and how much time the editor spends on it. But, if you need information on how much YouTube editors’ work costs, it usually takes about one hour of post-production time for every minute of finished editing in a YouTube vlog-style video.

For example, a 5-minute finished edit will take 5 hours (on average) and should cost between $225 and $500 if you hire an advanced or experienced video editor.

In the end, charge what you’re worth

As a video editor, it’s important to charge what you’re worth. The amount you charge per minute can vary depending on several factors such as your level of experience, the complexity of the project, and the market rates in your area. However, a rough estimate for video editing rates is between $50 to $300 per hour. This means, if you’re editing a 5-minute video, you could charge anywhere from $250 to $1500 for the project.

When determining your rates, it’s important to consider the value you bring to the table. Your skills and experience are what sets you apart from others in the industry and helps deliver a high-quality product to your clients.

Never undervalue yourself or your abilities and never submit to “market rates” if you don’t have to.

It’s also important to keep an eye on what your competition is charging. You don’t want to charge too much and price yourself out of the market, but you also don’t want to charge too little and not receive fair compensation for your work. Research the rates of other video editors in your area and use this information to determine a competitive price.