One of the biggest challenges for freelance voice over artists—especially those just starting out—is figuring out how much to charge. Price too high, and you risk losing potential clients. Price too low, and you undermine your own value, overwork yourself, and struggle to make ends meet.
If you're working through platforms like VoiceBros and want to build a thriving, sustainable voice over career, learning how to price your services effectively is essential.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to price with confidence, set boundaries, and earn what your work is truly worth—without underselling your talent.
Understand What You’re Really Selling
First, know this: you’re not just selling your voice. You're selling:
Years of practice and vocal control
A high-quality recording setup
Time spent interpreting scripts
Editing and mastering skills
Fast turnaround and reliability
Licensing rights for usage across media
Your price reflects the full value of your service—not just the few minutes it takes to record a line.
Know the Different Types of Pricing Models
Voice over work isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your pricing shouldn’t be either. Choose a structure that fits the project and aligns with industry expectations.
Common pricing models:
Per Word or Per Minute (used in e-learning, audiobooks)
Per Project (flat rate for commercials, explainers, etc.)
Per Hour (for live sessions or ongoing narration)
Usage-Based (based on where and how the voice will be used)
Usage-based pricing is especially important for work that appears in paid media, TV, radio, or online ads. A 30-second commercial used nationwide should cost significantly more than a 30-second internal video.
Consider Key Pricing Factors
Before quoting a client, consider these variables:
Length of Script: Longer scripts require more time to record and edit.
Turnaround Time: Rush projects should include an extra fee.
Usage Rights: Where and how will your voice be used? Local or global? Commercial or internal?
Revisions Included: How many rounds of edits will you allow before additional charges apply?
Your Experience Level: As your skill and reputation grow, your rates should reflect that.
Never rely on a one-size-fits-all rate card—each project is unique.
Set a Baseline Minimum Rate
Having a personal “minimum acceptable rate” protects you from burnout and exploitation. This is the lowest rate you’ll accept for any job, based on your time, effort, and expenses.
Ask yourself:
How long does it take me to complete a typical project from start to finish?
How much would I need to earn per hour to cover my equipment, time, and living costs?
What’s the minimum I can charge while still valuing my own worth?
If a job doesn’t meet your baseline, it’s okay to walk away.
Avoid the Trap of Charging Too Little
New artists often fall into the trap of undercharging to gain more work. But this strategy can backfire:
It attracts clients who value low prices over quality
It leaves you overworked and underpaid
It sets expectations that are hard to raise later
It makes it harder for the industry as a whole to maintain fair rates
Instead, focus on delivering high value and clear communication that justifies your rate. Clients who understand the value of quality voice work will pay fairly.
Build Tiered Service Packages
One way to serve a range of client budgets without undervaluing yourself is by creating tiered pricing packages.
For example:
Basic Package:
Up to 100 words
48-hour delivery
1 revision
Internal use only
Standard Package:
Up to 250 words
24-hour delivery
2 revisions
Web usage license
Premium Package:
Up to 500 words
Same-day delivery
3 revisions
Full commercial and broadcast rights
This lets clients choose based on budget—without asking you to work for less than you’re worth.
Be Transparent About What’s Included
One of the easiest ways to protect your value is to set clear expectations. When quoting, always define:
What’s included (word count, delivery time, file format)
What counts as a revision vs. a new script
Licensing terms (where the voice can be used)
Additional charges (for rush jobs, retakes, etc.)
This prevents misunderstandings and gives you a foundation to refer to if scope creep occurs.
Learn to Say No to Lowball Offers
Not every client will respect your rates—and that’s okay. Learn to identify red flags and say “no” politely but firmly.
For example:
“Thank you for the opportunity. Unfortunately, the budget doesn’t align with my current rate structure. Should things change in the future, I’d be happy to reconnect.”
By holding your ground, you position yourself as a professional—not a bargain service.
Reevaluate Your Rates Regularly
As you gain more experience, better equipment, and stronger client relationships, your value increases.
Schedule a rate check every 6 months:
Are you turning down more low-paying work?
Are you consistently booked at your current rate?
Are you doing more complex or high-profile projects?
If yes, it’s time to raise your rates—gradually and confidently.
FAQs
1.How much should beginner voice over artists charge?
It depends on the niche and project, but starting around $100 for short commercial reads and scaling up is common. Focus on value, not volume.
2.Should I list my prices publicly?
That’s optional. You can show general packages or say “starting at $___” to give clients a sense of range without boxing yourself in.
3.Is it okay to negotiate with clients?
Yes—but negotiate based on scope, not desperation. If they want a lower rate, offer a smaller deliverable or reduced rights in exchange.
4.What if a client asks me to lower my price because of their budget?
Instead of discounting, adjust what you include. Reduce revisions, word count, or delivery speed to match their budget fairly.
5.Do I need a rate card?
Not always, but having standard packages helps you respond quickly and consistently to inquiries.
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