How much does a Author make

  1. Salary statistics
  2. Author
Image that illustrates Author

Author

44 500 kr

Authors etc.

44 200 - 45 200 kr / month

Women earn 98% of what men do.

Kultur, media, design

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Author

Average salary 44 500 kr
Males 45 100 kr
Females 44 200 kr
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What does a writer do? – Tasks and work environment

A writer primarily works with creating, editing, and publishing texts across various genres and formats. Tasks can include writing novels, non-fiction, short stories, scripts, and producing articles or other texts for publication in print or digital media. Many writers are freelancers working from home or their own office, while others may be employed by publishers, media companies, or other organizations. The work environment is often characterized by independence, high demands on discipline, and the ability to work against deadlines.

Salary development over time

The salary for writers has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,000 SEK per month, rising the following year to 42 100 SEK (2023). In 2024, the average salary has increased further to 44,500 SEK per month. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 11% over the period, which can be linked to increased demand for skilled writers and a growing need for content in both traditional and digital channels. The salary increase also reflects a certain professionalization within the profession and greater opportunities for writers to negotiate better conditions, especially for those with established names or specialized skills.

Writer salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 44,500 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 44,200 SEK/month
  • Highest salary: 45,200 SEK/month
  • Hourly wage: 268 SEK
  • Men: 45 100 SEK/month
  • Women: 44,200 SEK/month
  • Women earn: 98% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a writer, no formal education is required, but many have backgrounds in literature, journalism, or writing. Self-taught skills carry significant weight, and it is common to combine courses, self-study, and practical experience. Developing a personal expression and a network within the industry are often crucial for success.

  • University education: For example, literature, writing, or journalism (3–5 years)
  • Writing courses: Standalone courses or folk high school, both in-person and online
  • Practical experience: Self-publishing, freelance assignments, or participating in writing competitions
  • Prerequisites: No formal requirements, but good knowledge of Swedish and literary interest are recommended
  • Networking: Active participation in writers’ groups or industry events

Many writers combine their writing with other professions, such as teachers, translators, or editors. This diversification is often necessary for financial stability and can also provide valuable experience and inspiration for their own writing.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Writers often have access to flexible working hours and the possibility to work remotely. Other benefits can include grants, royalties from sales, remuneration for appearances or lectures, and access to industry-specific networks and support from trade unions. In some cases, pension and insurance solutions are offered through employment or membership in writers’ associations.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the writing profession is tough, as many aspire to publish their own works and the market is limited. Patience and perseverance are needed to establish oneself, especially since the number of published titles increases but sales per title are often low. Digitalization has broadened opportunities but also increased competition, as self-publishing has become more common. Reaching readers and building a brand is a major challenge, especially for debut authors. At the same time, the profession offers great freedom and opportunities for creative development for those willing to commit long-term.

Tips for aspiring writers

To succeed as a writer, it is important to be persistent and not give up in the face of setbacks, as the path to publication is often long and filled with rejections. A strong drive and curiosity help develop a personal voice, while discipline is essential to complete manuscripts and work methodically. Being open to feedback and willing to adapt is important for growth, as is openness to new genres and collaborations. Social skills can facilitate networking within the industry, and strategic thinking increases the chances of reaching an audience. Finally, creativity is needed to find new stories and craft engaging texts that capture readers’ interest.

Key facts about Writers

  • Education level: Usually university or self-study
  • Work environment: Independent, often from home or freelance
  • Common employment: Freelance or project-based
  • Demand: About 620 available jobs within the profession
  • Special skills: Language sense, creativity, and discipline

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a writer, many can become established authors with recurring assignments or publications, while others develop parallel careers as editors, translators, or writing instructors. For those with a strong network and published works, working full-time as a writer or gaining employment with publishers and newspapers is possible. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, future prospects are considered relatively stable, with ongoing demand for qualified writers in both traditional and digital channels. However, the market requires adaptability, as technological developments and reading habits change rapidly.

Frequently asked questions about Writers

  • What does a Writer earn?
    - The average salary for a writer is 44,500 SEK per month.
  • Are there salary differences between men and women?
    - Yes, men earn on average 45 100 SEK and women 44,200 SEK, which means women earn 98% of what men do.
  • Does a writer need a university degree?
    - No, there are no formal requirements, but many have relevant university degrees or writing courses.
  • What are the future prospects for writers?
    - There are approximately 620 available jobs, and demand is considered stable, especially for specialized writers.
  • What are the most common forms of employment?
    - Most writers work as freelancers or on a project basis, sometimes in combination with other professions.
  • What characterizes a successful writer?
    - Creativity, discipline, language sense, and networking ability are key qualities for success.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-10 22:21:34

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Author is 45200 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a unspecified education. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 44500 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Author is 44200 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 44900 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 37400 kr 37500 kr
35-44 43700 kr 43700 kr
45-54 47900 kr 48300 kr
55-64 48700 kr 48900 kr
Snitt 98% 44300 kr 44500 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Author has the SSYK code 2641, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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Net salary
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