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Explained: Cost of Hiring a YouTube Editor (2024)

Explained: Cost of Hiring a YouTube Editor (2024)

In 2025, the cost of hiring a YouTube video editor can start at $30 per hour but can even go up to 60$ per hour or more — it all depends on how complex your video is.

You're most likely here because you are:
  • A content creator on YouTube
  • In need of a video editor
  • But you're not sure how much they charge and make
This guide teaches you everything about the prices of hiring a YouTube video editor.

How much do YouTube editors charge?

Let's first start by looking at some data.

Video editor salary data

In 2024, Video editors charge $32/hour in the US on average according to Ziprecruiter:
Source: ZipRecruiter

When looking at data from indeed.com, we can see that the average is a bit lower, at $28.52/hour:
Source: Indeed.com

Better yet: Have a look at this video editor job profile in the UK, and you'll see how the average salary per year is of £18,000 → £45,000. Note that this page is from the United Kingdom's government.
Source: nationalcareers.service.gov.uk

How much you will pay an editor will really depend on how long your video is, the experience of the editor, as well as the complexity of the project.
Here's what a YouTube video editor would charge, depending on their experience:
  • Beginner: $12 to $25 per hour
  • Experienced: $25 to $40 per hour
  • Senior: $40 to $60+ per hour
The hourly rate of a YouTube video editor relies on their expertise. It's also influenced by the video editing software you use, since some software is more complex and costs more.
It's unlikely that a freelance video editor using tools with a higher learning curve like DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro would charge the same rate as one using simpler tools like Filmora or CapCut.

What influences an editor's prices

The price a YouTube editor charges is influenced by a few factors — that's why some charge less or more than others.

Have a look at these two listings on Fiverr:
Differences in pricing of video editors

Here's what influences the price of different editors:
  1. Types of Editors:
    • Basic Editors: Handle simple cuts, transitions, and basic graphics.
    • Advanced Editors: Offer more complex editing, special effects, color grading, and sound design.
  2. Factors Affecting Cost:
    • Experience Level: More experienced editors charge higher rates.
    • Video Complexity: Videos requiring advanced editing, animations, or special effects cost more.
    • Turnaround Time: Faster delivery often incurs additional costs.
    • Frequency of Work: Regular, long-term projects may attract discounted rates.
  3. Pricing Models:
    • Hourly Rates: Ranges widely, often from $12 to $25+ per hour for basic editing and $25 to $60+ for advanced skills.
    • Per Project: Some editors charge a flat rate per video, which can vary significantly based on complexity.
    • Retainer Basis: A fixed monthly fee for a set amount of work, suitable for ongoing projects.
  4. Additional Costs:
    • Revisions: Additional charges for extensive revisions beyond the agreed scope.
    • Special Requests: Extra fees for specific requests like animation or 3D modeling.
  5. Finding Editors:
    • Specialized platforms: On YT Careers for example, you can create a YouTube video editor job post in minutes, and we'll send your job offer to hundreds of candidates to make your recruitement process faster!
    • Freelance Platforms: Websites like Upwork and Fiverr offer a range of editors with varied skills and rates.
    • Personal Networks: Referrals from other content creators can lead to reliable editors.
    • Social Media and Forums: Platforms like LinkedIn, Reddit, and Facebook groups can be valuable resources.
  6. Negotiating Rates:
    • Discuss clear expectations and deliverables.
    • Consider offering a trial period for assessment.
  7. Quality vs. Cost Trade-Off:
    • Balancing budget constraints with the desired quality of editing is crucial.
  8. Contract and Payment Terms:
    • Ensure a clear contract outlining deliverables, timelines, revision policies, and payment terms.

Where can you hire YouTube video editors?

You can create a job post on traditional hiring platforms like Indeed, Monster or ZipRecruiter, and you can also create a job post on a specialized job post platform for YouTube by creating a job post on our site!

You just have to sign up, configure your business account, and then you'll be able to create job posts to hire YouTube video editors, script writers, or other creative professionals.

Alexandru Golovatenco

Founder of YT Careers