What the latest data tells us and what it means for you.

When you decide to publish your own book, one of the biggest questions that comes up is:
“Can I actually make money doing this?”

It’s a fair question. Writing and publishing a book takes time, energy, and heart. You’re not just sharing your ideas—you’re building something that could elevate your brand, business, or even your legacy.

So, let’s look at what the latest data reveals about how much indie authors are really earning—and what those numbers mean for you.

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📊 What the Data Shows About Indie Author Income

The Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi) 2022–2023 Survey

According to a global survey of more than 2,000 self-published authors by the Alliance of Independent Authors (ALLi):

• The median annual income from writing and publishing was $12,749.
• The average income was much higher—around $80,000—due to a smaller group of high earners.
• Nearly 44% earned over $20,000, and 28% earned $50,000 or more.
• On average, indie authors out-earned traditionally published authors.

💬 Translation? Indie publishing is not only viable—it’s growing stronger every year.

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Written Word Media’s 2024 Indie Author Survey

This survey found that indie author income varies widely, but success leaves clues:

• 46% of authors earned $100 or less per month.
• 17% earned between $251 and $1,000 per month.
• Another 17% earned $2,500 to $20,000+ per month.

Higher-earning authors shared a few common traits—they publish consistently, invest in professional editing and design, and market their books strategically.

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Authors Guild Report (2022)

The Authors Guild reported that full-time self-published authors earned a median of $12,800 from book sales, and around $15,000 total when including related income such as workshops, coaching, and speaking engagements.

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💡 What These Numbers Really Mean

The data shows that sustainable income is absolutely possible—but success comes from strategy, consistency, and mindset.

Here’s what sets top earners apart:

1. They treat publishing like a business.

They invest in their craft, covers, and marketing—and approach publishing with professionalism and purpose.

2. They publish consistently.

Each new release boosts visibility and backlist sales. A larger catalog means more opportunities for readers to discover—and buy—your books.

3. They understand their audience.

Top-earning authors know exactly who they’re writing for and create books that serve reader needs and desires.

4. They diversify their income.

Many indie authors expand their earnings through speaking, courses, merchandise, or consulting tied to their book’s topic.

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“Think of your first book as the foundation, not the finish line.”
Each new release builds momentum, visibility, and long-term growth.

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🎯 Setting Realistic and Inspiring Goals

Not every indie author makes six figures—and that’s okay. Most earn a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per month, and those numbers often climb over time as their backlist grows.

The authors who stick with it, experiment, and keep learning are the ones who eventually see significant rewards.

So, if you’re earning $500 this month, $1,000 next month, and $2,500 later this year—that’s real, measurable progress.

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💬 The Bottom Line

Indie publishing is changing the landscape of what’s possible for writers.

You don’t need permission from a traditional publisher to reach readers or earn a living from your stories. The median income of $12,749 is just the midpoint—many authors are earning far more through persistence, smart marketing, and community connection.

Your book can open doors—to new clients, media exposure, speaking gigs, and new streams of income.

So if you’ve been asking yourself whether writing that book is worth it, the answer is a confident yes.

Your words matter.
Your story has value.
And your next chapter could be your most profitable one yet.

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📚 Want to learn how to increase your indie author income?
Explore the latest issue of DBN Digest: Real Books. Real Reviews. Real Talk. for practical publishing insights, author interviews, and strategies to turn your words into a sustainable business.