Freelance Editor: 20 Best Trusted U.S. Platforms to Hire Skilled Editors in 2025

Freelance editors play a critical role in polishing written content and ensuring accuracy across books, articles, websites, and moreupwork.com. In 2025, the demand for high-quality editing and proofreading services is growing as individuals and organizations seek skilled editors to refine manuscripts, marketing materials, and academic papersupwork.com. According to Upwork, “the demand for freelance editors remains robust in 2024 as the need for high-quality content across various platforms and industries continues to grow”upwork.com. In fact, freelance work is booming – one forecast projects that by 2027 over 50% of the U.S. workforce will be freelancingupwork.com. This surge means authors, businesses, and researchers have unprecedented access to expert editors online. Freelance editors handle a wide variety of projects: from novel manuscript editing and academic dissertation proofreading to corporate reports, marketing content, and technical documentationupwork.com. Below, we showcase 20 trusted U.S.-based platforms and agencies where you can hire skilled editors in 2025.

Best Platforms to Hire a Freelance Editor in 2025

• Upwork – Upwork is a massive freelancing marketplace with over 18 million skilled freelancers and 5 million clients worldwidedemandsage.com. It hosts editors of all types – from developmental editors to copy editors and proofreaders. You can post a job or browse profiles to hire a freelance editor with specific expertise (e.g. fiction, academic, technical). Notably, Upwork reports that editors on its site typically charge around $15–$40 per hourupwork.com, depending on experience. Many Fortune 500 companies (30% of the Fortune 100) use Upwork for hiring talentdemandsage.com, so its system of escrow payments and feedback ratings provides strong protection and quality assurance. The platform also supports milestones and tests, making it easier to manage larger projects with clear expectations.
• Fiverr – Fiverr connects you to millions of freelancers across 700+ service categories, including editing and proofreadingsearchlogistics.com. With about 3.8 million active buyers globallysearchlogistics.com, Fiverr offers a wide range of editing gigs at fixed prices. You can hire a proofreading freelancer or book editor on Fiverr for tasks like copy editing a blog post, proofreading an article, or even developmental edits of chapters. Gigs start as low as $5 for basic checks and can go into the hundreds for comprehensive edits. The site’s interface makes it easy to compare services: each gig shows sample work, customer reviews, and delivery time. Fiverr also provides a satisfaction guarantee and secure payment until you approve the work, which is handy for trying out a new editor without risk.
• Freelancer – Freelancer.com is one of the largest freelancing sites, with over 83 million users (employers and freelancers) worldwidefreelancer.com. To use it, you post a detailed project (e.g. “Edit my 50-page novel”), and qualified editors bid on your job. This competitive bidding often yields varied proposals, letting you choose an editor who fits your budget and timeline. Freelancer supports hourly contracts or fixed-price deals, and its milestone system holds funds in escrow until you’re satisfied. Like Upwork, it has a rating system and dispute resolution. With such a vast talent pool, you can find both entry-level editors (for straightforward copyediting) and senior editors (for highly technical or literary work). Freelancer is a solid choice if you want many bidding options and transparent reviews.
• Reedsy – Reedsy is a specialized marketplace tailored to the book publishing industry. It connects authors with professional publishing talent, including thousands of editors, cover designers, and marketers. Reedsy’s editors are carefully vetted – many are former editors at publishing houses. You can filter Reedsy’s editors by genre (fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, etc.), editorial service (developmental, copyediting, proofreading) and price. The platform says it offers “the world’s most experienced editors”reedsy.com. For example, if you need a manuscript editor for your novel or a developmental edit for a self-published memoir, Reedsy makes it easy to browse portfolios and set up calls. Payment is handled through Reedsy, ensuring safety. Although Reedsy tends to be more focused on book projects than general content, it’s ideal if you want publishing-quality editorial expertise.
• EditFast – EditFast, whose motto is “Where Writers Meet Editors”editfast.com, is a dedicated platform for editing and proofreading services. You simply submit your document and request quotes, and qualified editors respond. EditFast maintains a network of U.S.-based editors for any niche – from novelists to academics to business writers. Editors on EditFast will offer services like text editing, grammar checks, and formatting. The company emphasizes personalized service: it allows you to read editor profiles and select one who fits your style. Prices are provided upfront, and many editors offer multiple levels of service (e.g. standard vs. “premium”). Because EditFast is focused solely on editing, it can be a quick way to find a specialized editor without sorting through unrelated freelancers.
• Toptal – Toptal is known as an elite freelance network (especially for developers and designers), but it also includes top-tier writers, content strategists, and editors. Toptal rigorously screens its freelancers, so only the top 3% of applicants are accepted. When you hire through Toptal, you can expect highly experienced editors (often former agency or corporate editors) who can handle large-scale projects. Toptal is typically used by enterprise clients and may have higher fees, but it guarantees that the editors have proven track records. If your project demands the highest level of professional editing (for example, preparing a large technical manual or corporate report), Toptal’s curated approach can save time on vetting. They match you with candidates based on your specific requirements and oversee the contract.
• Scribendi – Scribendi is a long-standing editing and proofreading service (founded in 1997) with offices in the U.S. and abroad. It has a team of hundreds of editors on staff and contractors, offering services to authors, students, and businesses. Scribendi editors often hold advanced degrees and are experienced with all major style guidesscribendi.com. The company reports having edited over 2.7 billion words and completed more than 800,000 ordersscribendi.com, highlighting its scale and reliability. Customers can choose service levels (standard, expedited, etc.) and even get a free sample edit for academic manuscriptseditorworld.com. Scribendi’s user-friendly site lets you upload your document, select turnaround, and pay online. Its quality guarantee and reputation for quick, professional edits make it popular for a wide range of work from essays to book manuscripts.
• ProofreadingServices.com – ProofreadingServices.com is an online editing company based in Portland, Oregon. It advertises itself as a “leading online English proofreading and editing service”proofreadingservices.com. The firm employs American native-English editors who have passed rigorous editing examsproofreadingservices.com. They specialize in academic papers, business writing, books, and more. ProofreadingServices.com offers a quick online price calculator, 24/7 turnaround, and a money-back guarantee. They also provide free sample edits so you can gauge their quality. Because all their editors are native speakers, it’s a popular choice for ESL authors publishing in the U.S. market or businesses needing polished reports, presentations, or web content.
• Guru.com – Guru is a Seattle-based freelance marketplace (founded in 1998) where clients post jobs or hire freelancers via pre-defined service bundles. In the writing & translation category, you’ll find many copy editors, proofreaders, and content editors. You can filter search results by location, hourly rate, or payment type (hourly vs. fixed). Guru’s “SafePay” system holds funds until you approve the work. This platform tends to attract professional freelancers, including many U.S. editors. Some editors on Guru advertise quick turnaround editing or 24-hour service. If you prefer a traditional bid/job-board style (rather than gig-based like Fiverr), Guru is worth a look.
• Editor World – Editor World is an online editing service staffed by professional editors. It operates 24/7 and offers flat-rate editing and proofreading. Editor World is notable for academic editing: it’s recommended by many universities and mentors for student writers. Their transparent pricing is a plus. For example, Editor World quotes editing a 3,000-word academic document at about $78 for a 5-day turnaround and $159 for an 8-hour rusheditorworld.com. They also list lower rates for longer timelines (e.g. 20% off for slow turnaroundeditorworld.com). Clients can browse editor profiles by specialty (e.g. business, English language learners, book editing) and even read reviews. This platform works well for authors and students who prefer a standardized service rather than negotiating custom bids.
• Wordvice – Wordvice specializes in academic and admissions editing services. It employs editors with graduate degrees in fields like science, engineering, medicine, and humanities. Students and researchers commonly use Wordvice to edit journal papers, conference manuscripts, grant proposals, and theses. The site features a clear pricing table (usually per word) and rapid turnaround options. Wordvice also offers content editing services for creative and professional writing, including admissions essays and web content. Their editors provide not only error correction but also comments on organization and clarity. Turnaround can be as short as 6 hours for small documents, making Wordvice a go-to for urgent academic needs.
• Enago – Enago provides English editing for scientific and academic manuscripts. It’s used by researchers, universities, and journals to improve publications. Enago’s editors are PhD-qualified in various subjects and adhere to journal submission standards. They handle everything from language polishing to reference formatting. For instance, Enago’s pricing for a 3,000-word editing job ranges roughly $174–$225 depending on how fast you need iteditorworld.com. U.S. clients often choose Enago for its reputation in research editing. In addition to editing, Enago offers services like journal recommendation and manuscript formatting. Their quality checks and money-back policy give authors peace of mind before submission.
• Editage – Editage (part of Cactus Communications) is a global author services company with a strong presence in the U.S. They offer comprehensive editing and publication support for academic, medical, and business writing. Editage’s large team of editors are often subject-matter experts (engineering, biotech, social sciences, etc.), so they excel at handling technical language and concepts. Services include basic editing, advanced author editing, and even translation. Many researchers use Editage for final proofreading before submitting to journals. They also provide author training and consultation, making them more than just a gig – more an agency model. If you have a serious publishing project, Editage can coordinate a multi-step editorial process.
• Cambridge Proofreading – Cambridge Proofreading is an online editing company (though UK-based, it has a significant American client base). It employs only writers, editors, and proofreaders who are native English speakers. They focus on academic theses, dissertations, business documents, and yes, even novels. All editors have advanced degrees and specialize in specific fields. Their service includes a detailed review of style, logic, grammar, and clarity. Cambridge Proofreading offers fast options (same-day editing is available) and provides a certificate of editing. U.S. customers appreciate that the editors use U.S. English and formats (APA/Chicago) by request.
• Scribbr – Scribbr is best known for academic proofreading and citation checking. U.S. students often use Scribbr to polish college essays, theses, and dissertations. Scribbr’s model is convenient: you upload your document, the site gives an instant quote, and an editor is assigned. Editors on Scribbr give comprehensive feedback, addressing not just typos but also structure and argument flow if requested. They also include a plagiarism report as an optional add-on. The service operates 24/7 and offers free final revision before the job closes. If you want an accessible online platform for academic editing with transparent pricing and support, Scribbr is a solid choice.
• ProofreadingPal – ProofreadingPal is an American editing service that guarantees every document is checked by two proofreaders independently. This “two-proofreader approach” means virtually all errors are caught. They edit a wide variety of documents (academic, resumes, novels, business reports) and promise turnaround as fast as a few hours for short documents. ProofreadingPal’s pricing is per word (with discounts for large jobs) and tends to be competitive. Their double-editor model is unique in the U.S. market; customers often appreciate the extra thoroughness for sensitive or high-stakes manuscripts.
• LinkedIn ProFinder – LinkedIn’s ProFinder is a freelancer marketplace integrated with your professional network. To hire, you fill out a project request and qualified freelancers (including editors) submit proposals. The advantage is that many freelancers will already have a visible LinkedIn profile and recommendations. U.S. clients especially use ProFinder to find vetted professionals for writing and editing projects. Because it’s tied to LinkedIn, it’s great for projects where networking matters (for example, corporate clients or personal referrals). ProFinder lets you leverage contacts; you may already share mutual connections with the editor you’re considering.
• PeoplePerHour – PeoplePerHour is a UK-based freelance platform, but it has many U.S. users and clients. It allows posting projects (jobs) or buying fixed offerings called “Hourlies.” You can find copy editors, proofreaders, and content editors on PeoplePerHour. Its global nature means you can find English-speaking editors around the clock. Many U.S. clients use it because of its interface and payment security. If you need to hire an editor quickly and are open to international candidates, PeoplePerHour expands your options beyond U.S.-only platforms.
• Kolabtree – Kolabtree is a specialty platform that connects researchers and businesses with freelance experts. In addition to data scientists and analysts, it has scientific and medical editors. If your document is highly technical (e.g. a biomedical manuscript or legal patent), Kolabtree can match you with someone who has a relevant PhD or background. You post a project with details and budget, and vetted freelancers bid. Many U.S. and international experts participate. Kolabtree is particularly useful for niche fields where generalist editors lack subject knowledge.
• Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) – The EFA is not a typical hiring site, but it’s an important resource. It’s a U.S. professional association of editors and writers, with a searchable Member Directory and Job List. The directory has over 3,300 editorial professionals (editors, proofreaders, indexers, fact-checkers, etc.)the-efa.org. You can search by skill (for example, “manuscript editor, fiction genre, Chicago style”). Clients can use the directory for free and contact members directly. Alternatively, the EFA’s Job List lets you post a project that is circulated to members. It’s especially trusted for publishing and academic projects – many accomplished freelance editors belong to the EFA. (The EFA also provides guidelines on hiring editors and sample editing teststhe-efa.org, which can be useful to new authors.)

Freelance Editor: Types of Editing Services Offered

Freelance editors can offer a spectrum of services depending on what stage your writing is at. Key types of editing services include:

• Developmental editing (structural editing): Focuses on big-picture content, organization, and coherence. A developmental editor looks at overall structure, plot (for fiction), argument flow (for nonfiction), and whether the content meets its goals. They may suggest reordering sections, expanding ideas, or adding/deleting chapters. The Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) defines developmental editing as working on “concept, content, organization, and narrative”the-efa.org. This type of editing is ideal for early drafts when you need substantive feedback on how to improve the manuscript’s core.
• Line editing and copy editing: Deals with writing style and clarity at the sentence and paragraph level. A line editor improves wording, phrasing, and tone; a copy editor fixes grammar, punctuation, spelling, and consistency. In practice, these terms overlap. Editors in this category ensure that sentences are smooth and the writing voice is engaging. They will correct errors and check that the text adheres to any required style guide (APA, MLA, Chicago, house style, etc.)upwork.comupwork.com. For example, Upwork notes that editors “identify and correct grammatical errors, punctuation mistakes, and spelling issues,” and “ensure that the content maintains a consistent style, tone, and formatting throughout.”upwork.comupwork.com This service is used when the content is mostly there but needs polishing for publication.
• Proofreading and fact-checking: The final review stage before publication. A proofreader catches any typos, minor errors, and formatting inconsistencies that slipped through previous rounds. They might also double-check names, dates, or simple facts if requested. Proofreading is usually done on the final draft. As the EFA explains, proofreading is the last pass: it fixes “spelling, punctuation, typography and formatting problems”the-efa.org. (It does not change wording or structure.) This ensures that your document is clean and professional before it goes live or to print.
• Academic and technical editing: Specialized editing for scholarly and technical writing. An academic editor will ensure that academic papers, theses, and dissertations meet scholarly standards: proper citations, formal tone, and clarity of argument. They often know the nuances of formats like APA/Chicago and can suggest improvements to methodology description or argument logic. Technical editors, on the other hand, focus on clarity in manuals, scientific articles, or engineering documents. They check that complex information is presented clearly and jargon is correct. These editors often have subject-matter expertise; for instance, a medical manuscript might be edited by someone with a healthcare background.
• Manuscript review and publishing prep: A comprehensive service for book authors. It often includes elements of developmental editing plus final proofreading. For example, a manuscript review might involve a detailed critique of your novel’s plot, character development, or market readiness. Some editors offer a “beta reading” service with feedback on story, then follow up with copyediting the polished draft. This category can also include formatting and indexing assistance in preparation for publication. Many freelance platforms list “manuscript editing” as a service, covering both large-scale feedback and line editsupwork.com.

Freelance editors may package these services differently. Some offer tiered packages (e.g. developmental + copy edit + proofreading), while others specialize in just one area. When comparing content editing services, check precisely what each includes. For example, some copy editors include one round of author revisions, while others charge extra for rewrites. Clarify your needs with the editor to get the right mix of services.

Freelance Editor Rates in 2025

Editor pricing varies widely by service type, turnaround, and experience. Here are typical pricing models and rates (all U.S. dollars):

• Per-word pricing: Many freelance editors charge per word. According to data from Reedsy, standard rates (in 2024) were roughly $0.020/word for proofreading, ~$0.025/word for basic copy editing, and ~$0.032/word for developmental editingblog.reedsy.com. These are averages; individual rates depend on the editor’s skill and your project’s complexity. For example, Editor World cites EFA figures showing fiction copyediting at $0.02–$0.029/word and nonfiction at $0.03–$0.039/wordeditorworld.com. (Nonfiction is usually pricier due to fact-checking.) Keep in mind some editors or platforms (like Writer’s Relief, Editor World, or Ebook Launch) list their per-word prices publicly, which can help you compare.
• Hourly rates: Others charge by the hour, especially on freelance marketplaces. Upwork reports that editors typically charge $15–$40 per hourupwork.com. Reedsy’s survey offers similar hourly guidance: about $35–$55/hr for developmental editing and $30–$45/hr for proofreadingblog.reedsy.comblog.reedsy.com. Hourly billing is common when the workload is uncertain (e.g. heavy rewriting needed). The disadvantage is the final cost is less predictable. Always get an estimate of total hours when hiring hourly.
• Flat/project fees: For large or defined projects, flat fees are often used. Agencies or freelancers will quote a total price after reviewing sample text or knowing the word count. For instance, Editor World provides a price calculator so clients see a total editing cost up fronteditorworld.com. Flat fees are convenient because you know exactly what you’ll pay regardless of how many hours the editor spends. Just be sure the scope is clearly defined (number of words, type of edit, turnaround) so there are no surprises.
• Turnaround differences: Faster service usually costs more. Many editors have tiered pricing: a document edited in one week might be cheaper than the same document in 24 hours. Scribendi, for example, charges extra for next-day editing. Check if rush fees apply, and factor this into your budget.
• Experience and specialization: A novice editor will charge less than a seasoned professional. The Upwork report notes that “an experienced editor may command higher fees”upwork.com. Also, specialized skills (e.g. legal editing, medical content, or creative manuscript editing) can increase rates. If your project requires deep subject knowledge, expect to pay at the higher end of the scale.
• Platform fees: If using freelance sites, remember they often add service fees. Upwork charges a percentage on top of the freelancer’s rate, as does Freelancer and Fiverr to a lesser extent. Verify who pays these fees (some freelancers include it in their rate, others let clients cover it).
• For perspective: Many freelance writers charge $0.10–$1.00 per wordclearvoice.com, which is typically higher than editing rates. Editing is a specialized skill, but it generally costs less per word than producing original content.

To summarize: simple proofreading might cost only a few cents per word, while a full developmental edit could approach 5 or 6 cents per word. Always get quotes from multiple sources. Compare rates on Reedsy, Upwork, or ClearVoice surveys to ensure you’re paying market rates for your specific project.

Skills to Look for in a Freelance Editor

Hiring the right editor means checking both skills and soft qualities. Key attributes include:

• Mastery of language: The editor should have impeccable grammar, spelling, and punctuation skills. They should comfortably handle your document’s language and dialect (e.g. U.S. vs. British English). Upwork notes editors “identify and correct grammatical errors, punctuation mistakes, and spelling issues”upwork.com. Look for an editor who is known for strong language skills.
• Attention to detail: A top editor notices inconsistencies and small errors. They ensure consistent style (capitalization, hyphenation, terminology) and that facts, dates, names, and citations are consistent throughout. The EFA emphasizes that editors must “ensure that the content maintains a consistent style, tone, and formatting throughout”upwork.com. A keen eye for detail will prevent embarrassing mistakes in the final text.
• Style guide proficiency: If your work follows a particular style (APA, MLA, Chicago, IEEE, company house style, etc.), the editor must know it well. The Upwork guide mentions that editors “follow specific style guides (such as APA, MLA, or Chicago) to maintain consistency and professionalism”upwork.com. During hiring, ask if the editor has experience with your required style. Many editors list their style guide familiarity on their profiles.
• Editing tools and technology: Modern editors often work in Word’s Track Changes, Google Docs comments, or specialized software. They may also use tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid to catch errors. Ask what tools they use to make collaboration easier. Proficiency with digital tools means smoother communication (e.g. using comments to explain changes).
• Subject-matter expertise: For technical, academic, or industry-specific content, domain knowledge is crucial. For example, an editor fluent in medical terminology can catch misused jargon that a generalist might miss. Check the editor’s background or portfolio: if you’re editing a biology paper, an editor with a science degree is preferable.
• Communication and collaboration: A good editor not only fixes errors but explains them. They should communicate clearly (in writing or video calls) and be open to questions. Look for an editor who is responsive to your messages and asks clarifying questions about tone, audience, and goals. Setting up a short conversation before hiring can reveal a lot about their communication style.
• Professionalism and reliability: Finally, ensure the editor is dependable. Check their track record: on marketplaces, read past client reviews. On services, look for quality guarantees or revision policies. Reliable editors stick to deadlines and respect confidentiality. For instance, professional organizations like the EFA provide guidelines to ensure member editors adhere to high standardsthe-efa.org.

In essence, the best freelance editor for your project will combine expert language skills (grammar and style) with great attention to detail and good communication. It often pays to ask for a small paid test edit if you’re unsure – this lets you directly see how they handle your content.

How to Hire a Freelance Editor Effectively

Hiring an editor is a two-way process. To get the best match, follow these steps:

1. Define the scope and deliverables: Write a clear project description. Specify document type (book, article, thesis, etc.), word count, and exactly what kind of edit you need (proofreading, copyediting, developmental, etc.). Include any style guidelines or formatting requirements. For example: “Proofread a 7,000-word technical report for grammar and clarity, following APA style.” The more detail you provide, the better editors can assess the job and quote accurately.
2. Request a sample edit: Before committing to a full project, ask the editor to work on a short excerpt (100–500 words). This is a common practice that gives insight into their editing style and quality. Many freelancers welcome this; some even offer a free or discounted sample. The Editorial Freelancers Association explicitly advises clients to request a sample edit or editing test to gauge fitthe-efa.org. Evaluate the sample for clarity, thoroughness, and whether the editor’s suggestions align with your expectations.
3. Set timeline and budget: Agree on the deadline and how many revision rounds are included. Make sure the editor confirms they can meet your schedule. Discuss whether there will be additional charges for extra rounds or rush delivery. Clarify payment terms (rate and payment platform). Getting everything in writing (even an email) prevents misunderstandings.
4. Check experience and references: Vet the editor’s background. Review their portfolio or ask for examples of similar projects. If the platform has reviews or ratings, read what past clients said. For example, an editor’s profile might note “Specialist in academic editing, MIT alumna”. On sites like Reedsy or EFA, you can often see credentials and samples. Confirm that they have relevant experience (e.g. genre for book editing, field of expertise for academic work).
5. Confirm confidentiality and rights: If your content is sensitive (like unpublished research), ask about privacy. Many freelancers will sign a simple nondisclosure agreement (NDA) on request. Ensure you own the rights to the edited work; typically, once you pay the invoice, the final manuscript is yours. Clarify that neither party will reuse proprietary content without permission.
6. Use a secure payment method: On marketplaces, always use the site’s escrow or milestones. For example, Upwork or Freelancer hold payment until you approve the work. If hiring privately or through an agency site, use a tracked payment (PayPal, bank transfer) and avoid sending full payment before work is delivered. Protect yourself with contracts or platform guarantees.
7. Communicate expectations: Before the project starts, discuss how you’ll communicate (email, platform message, video calls). Agree on review process: how you will submit revisions or ask questions, and how the editor will provide the edited document (most use Track Changes or comments). Good communication channels lead to smoother collaboration.

By following these steps, you can hire a freelance editor more confidently. Clear instructions and open dialogue help ensure the editor understands your needs. Remember that a strong partnership yields better results – take the time to outline your vision and maintain open communication. As one success story notes, having clear project details and sample edits can greatly improve satisfaction with freelance hiresthe-efa.org.