Can Writers Make a Good Living on Medium?

When it comes to making a living as a writer on Medium, the answer is a nuanced one – yes, and no. As someone who writes on Medium, I've noticed that it's not as straightforward as it may seem from reading posts that claim to earn thousands in a short period.

How I Make a Living as a Medium Writer

Usually, I write one post every week just for fun, and I get paid around $100 per month. According to statistics, the vast majority of writers on Medium earn much less; only 8% earn over $100, and a mere 0.86% make over $1,000 monthly. While this may not seem like a sustainable income, it's important to remember that in many countries, $1,000 a month can support a decent lifestyle.

Why Writing on Medium Alone May Not Be Enough

Many writers choose to write on Medium for the joy of sharing their thoughts and engaging with their audience rather than hoping to make a full living. However, there are numerous opportunities to earn money through writing online that go beyond Medium. There are platforms that pay between $100 and $200 per article, and you can also work freelance on sites like Upwork.

Additional Options for Earnings as a Writer

The world of online writing isn't limited to just Medium. There are countless blogs and platforms that are willing to pay you for your writing skills. Additionally, the rise of the influencer economy means that if you grow a significant following on social media platforms like WeChat or Weibo, you can monetize your influence in various ways, often quite successfully.

Monetizing Your Writing Online

For those looking to turn their writing into a sustainable income, there are several strategies that might be considered:

Focus on Niche Topics: By writing about specific topics that you enjoy and are knowledgeable about, you can become an authority in your niche and attract a dedicated readership. This can lead to more ad revenue and sponsored content opportunities. Develop a Blog: By starting your own blog, you can take full control of your content and monetize it directly through ads, affiliate marketing, and sponsored posts. Work Freelance: Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr offer opportunities to write for companies, contributing articles, blog posts, and other content in exchange for payment. Build a Social Media Presence: By sharing your writing on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn, and building a following, you can attract brand sponsors and other opportunities.

Conclusion

The journey to becoming a full-time writer can be challenging, but it's far from impossible. While the income from writing on Medium might not be enough to live on, it's just one piece of a larger picture. By diversifying your income streams and leveraging your skills, you can create a sustainable and fulfilling career in writing.

Remember, the key to success lies in not just writing, but in building a strong audience, learning about the industry, and being strategic about how you monetize your writing. Whether on Medium or in the broader online writing world, your dedication and hard work can pay off.