14 Places To Sell Short Stories For Money
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14 Places To Sell Short Stories For Money
Are you a budding writer looking to turn your passion into a profitable career? Selling short stories can be a great way to get started. With the rise of online platforms and literary magazines, there are many opportunities to get your work noticed and paid for.
The world of short story markets is diverse, with many options for writers to showcase their talent. From top-paying literary magazines to online platforms, there are several avenues to explore. In this article, we’ll explore 14 places where you can sell your short stories and earn money.
Key Takeaways
- Discover top-paying markets for short stories
- Learn how to sell your short stories online
- Explore literary magazines and their submission guidelines
- Understand the benefits of selling short stories
- Get tips on how to increase your chances of getting published
The Market for Short Fiction Writers
As more people want to read short stories, writers have more chances to get paid. The world of literature is full of markets and magazines looking for new short fiction.
Current Demand for Short Stories
Many literary magazines and online sites are looking for short stories. Both print and digital publications want fresh voices and exciting tales. “The best short stories are those that leave a lasting impression on the reader, often challenging their perceptions or evoking a strong emotional response.”
Potential Income from Short Fiction
How much money writers can make from short stories varies. But, many publications pay well for the stories they accept. Here’s a look at what writers can earn:
| Publication | Payment Rate |
|---|---|
| The New Yorker | $200-$300 per story |
| Clarkesworld Magazine | $0.06 per word |
| The Atlantic | $200-$500 per story |
By checking out different short story markets, writers can boost their chances of getting published. They can also earn a good income from their stories.
The New Yorker
The New Yorker has been a top spot for short stories for nearly a century. It attracts writers from all over the world. The magazine is known for its diverse range of fiction, from literary to science fiction.
Payment Rates and Submission Process
The New Yorker offers competitive pay for its writers. They can earn between $200 to $400 for every thousand words. But, the exact amount can change.
Getting published here is tough. Editors check submissions all the time. Make sure your work is perfect before you send it in.
Key submission guidelines include:
- Submissions should be made through their online portal.
- Writers should submit their work as a Word document or text file.
- Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but writers should indicate if their work is being considered elsewhere.
Story Types and Word Count Requirements
The New Yorker publishes many types of stories. This includes literary fiction, science fiction, and fantasy. They usually prefer stories under 7,000 words. Most are between 3,000 to 5,000 words. “The New Yorker’s editors look for stories that are not only well-crafted but also original and thought-provoking.” –
Tips for Getting Published
To get published in The New Yorker, focus on telling engaging stories. Make sure your characters are well-developed. Also, follow their submission rules and be patient. It can take months to hear back.
Additional tips include:
- Reading and understanding the types of stories The New Yorker typically publishes.
- Ensuring that your submission is free of errors and polished.
- Being prepared for possible rejections and keep submitting your work.
Clarkesworld Magazine
Clarkesworld Magazine is well-known for its wide appeal to science fiction and fantasy writers. It’s a key player in the speculative fiction world. It gives both new and well-known authors a chance to showcase their stories.
Science Fiction and Fantasy Focus
Clarkesworld Magazine is all about publishing top-notch science fiction and fantasy stories. Its team works hard to pick stories that grab your attention and make you think. They often explore new ideas in the genre.
Payment Structure and Rights
The magazine pays writers well for their stories. Payment is based on the story’s word count. Clarkesworld Magazine gets some rights to the stories, like first publication rights and digital rights.
| Word Count | Payment Rate |
|---|---|
| 0-1000 words | $0.08 per word |
| 1001+ words | $0.10 per word |
Submission Guidelines and Response Time
Clarkesworld Magazine accepts submissions online. Authors should carefully read the submission guidelines, including formatting and word count rules. The magazine usually responds within a few months.
Knowing about Clarkesworld Magazine’s focus, payment, and submission process helps writers. It can help them get their work published.
The Atlantic
The Atlantic has a long history of publishing top-notch short stories. It’s a dream spot for many writers. Both new and well-known authors find it appealing.
Literary Reputation and Audience
Founded in 1857, The Atlantic is known for its high standards. It attracts readers who love detailed, thoughtful stories. Its audience is wide, including book lovers and scholars.
Compensation and Rights Acquired
The Atlantic pays writers well for their stories. They usually get first serial rights. This deal is good for both the writer and the magazine.
Submission Process and Success Tips
Writers should follow The Atlantic’s submission rules closely. This includes specific formatting and knowing what the magazine likes. A strong cover letter and a gripping story are key.
Understanding The Atlantic’s audience and what it looks for can help. This way, writers can make their stories more likely to be published.
Glimmer Train
Glimmer Train is a top choice for short story writers. It’s known for its high standards and has helped both new and well-known writers. This literary magazine is a key place for writers to get published and recognized.
Contest Opportunities and Regular Submissions
Glimmer Train gives writers several ways to submit their work. It hosts short story contests all year, which can give writers an edge. It also accepts regular submissions, giving writers more chances to get noticed.
- Annual contests with prestigious judges
- Open submission periods for unsolicited work
- Feedback provided for many submissions
Payment Details and Publication Schedule
Writers who get their stories published are paid competitively. Glimmer Train treats writers fairly, paying them well for their work. The magazine comes out every quarter, giving writers a steady place to publish.
- Payment rates are among the highest in the industry
- Publication schedule is quarterly, ensuring regular content
What Makes Stories Stand Out
To get published, stories need to be well-crafted and original. Glimmer Train looks for unique voices and gripping stories. Writers should read past issues to get a feel for the magazine’s style.
- Originality in plot and character development
- Strong narrative voice
- Adherence to submission guidelines
Asimov’s Science Fiction
For decades, Asimov’s Science Fiction has led in publishing exciting science fiction and fantasy stories. It’s a top choice for both new and seasoned writers.
Genre Specifications and Word Count
Asimov’s Science Fiction mainly publishes science fiction. This includes hard science fiction and space opera. Stories usually range from 1,000 to 20,000 words, with a sweet spot of 4,000 to 8,000 words.
Payment Rates and Rights Purchased
Authors get paid well for their work, with rates from 8 cents to 12 cents per word. This depends on the story type and the writer’s experience. The magazine buys first North American serial rights and the right to reprint in different formats.
Submission Requirements and Tips
Submit your work through their online portal. It’s important to follow their detailed submission guidelines. This includes formatting and cover letter rules. To get published, make sure your story is well-edited and polished. It should also have a strong narrative that matches the magazine’s genre.
Knowing the genre, payment, and submission rules helps writers publish in Asimov’s Science Fiction.
Strange Horizons
Strange Horizons is a top site for speculative fiction writers. It publishes top-notch science fiction, fantasy, and more. This online magazine is dedicated to quality.
Speculative Fiction Focus
Strange Horizons offers a wide range of stories for many readers. It welcomes submissions from both new and seasoned writers. This makes it a welcoming place for all writers.
Payment Information and Publication Frequency
The magazine pays its authors well, showing respect for their work. Strange Horizons publishes regularly. This gives writers a steady place to share their stories.
What They Look For in Submissions
Strange Horizons seeks unique and compelling stories in speculative fiction. The team is open to many themes and styles. They encourage authors to share their most creative work.
To get published, authors should make sure their work is well-edited and polished. It’s also important to follow the submission guidelines closely.
Tor.com
Tor.com is a top site for science fiction and fantasy writers. It lets authors share their stories with a big audience.
Science Fiction and Fantasy Market
Tor.com is famous for its top-notch stories in science fiction and fantasy. It draws in both new and well-known writers. This means readers get a wide variety of tales and views.
Professional Payment Rates
One big plus of writing for Tor.com is its professional payment rates. Writers get paid well for their stories. This makes it a great choice for those wanting to make a living from their writing.
Submission Guidelines and Success Stories
Tor.com has clear submission guidelines to help writers know what they’re looking for. Many writers have found success here, with some stories becoming big hits in the literary world.
To boost their chances, writers should follow Tor.com’s guidelines closely. They should also submit their best work.
One Story
For writers seeking quality over quantity, One Story is the go-to. This literary magazine is known for its unique way of publishing short stories.
A Singular Focus
One Story publishes just one short story at a time. This unique publication model gives each story the spotlight it needs. It avoids the chaos of multiple stories vying for attention.
Compensation and Exposure
Authors published in One Story get a fair payment. The magazine’s focus on one story also boosts their exposure. This can be a big career advantage.
- Payment is made upon publication.
- Authors also get a certain number of contributor’s copies.
Submission Guidelines
To get published, writers must follow One Story‘s submission rules. These include:
- Submitting work through the online portal.
- Checking that the story fits the word count.
The response time varies, but One Story is known for its thoughtful feedback.
In summary, One Story is a unique platform for writers. Its focus on quality and attention to each story ensures they get the spotlight they deserve.
14 Places To Sell Short Stories For Money Online
The digital world has opened new doors for short story writers. Now, they can sell their work online to a global audience. This means they can earn money for their stories.
Digital-Only Publications and Their Benefits
Digital-only publications have many advantages for writers. They include:
- Increased global reach and visibility
- Faster publication times compared to traditional print media
- Flexibility in terms of content and genre
Digital publications are attractive because they often have lower costs. This lets them offer better pay to writers.
Payment Structures for Online Markets
Online markets have different payment plans. Some pay a flat fee per story. Others pay based on how many readers they get. For example:
- Tor.com pays a professional rate for short stories, typically around $0.08 per word.
- Strange Horizons also pays its contributors, with rates varying based on the type of piece and its length.
Submission Tips for Digital Publications
To get published in digital-only publications, writers should:
- Carefully follow submission guidelines for each publication
- Tailor their work to the specific genre or theme of the publication
- Ensure their stories are polished and edited to a high standard
By understanding the benefits and requirements of digital publications, writers can boost their chances of getting paid online.
Narrative Magazine
Narrative Magazine focuses on innovative storytelling. It’s a great place for short story writers to share their work. The magazine is known for publishing top-notch fiction, reaching a wide audience.
Contest and Regular Submission Options
Narrative Magazine offers two ways for writers to submit: regular and contest submissions. You can submit your work any time of the year. The annual contest gives writers another chance to shine.
Regular submissions are always open. This lets writers send their work whenever they like. The team at Narrative Magazine looks for stories with unique voices and engaging plots.
Payment Information and Rights
Narrative Magazine pays its writers well. The exact amount can change, but they’re fair. They take first North American serial rights and the right to reprint in some cases. “The art of writing is the art of revising.” – Anonymous
Story Length and Genre Preferences
Narrative Magazine welcomes stories of various lengths and genres. They usually prefer pieces between 2,000 and 8,000 words. They’re interested in both new and traditional fiction.
Knowing Narrative Magazine’s guidelines can help writers get published. It’s a great place for innovative stories and fair pay.
Ploughshares
Ploughshares is a top literary magazine that draws many writers and readers. It has a long history of publishing innovative and engaging works.
Literary Focus and Audience
Ploughshares offers a wide range of content, including fiction, poetry, and essays. It appeals to a broad audience. The magazine features both new and established writers, creating a unique mix.
The editor says, “Ploughshares is dedicated to publishing quality literature that connects with its readers.” “The art of literature is a journey, not a destination,” a sentiment that echoes the magazine’s mission.
Compensation Structure and Publication Schedule
Ploughshares pays its contributors well. It offers competitive rates for writers and poets. Payments are made upon publication.
| Category | Payment Rate |
|---|---|
| Fiction | $50 per page |
| Poetry | $10 per line |
Submission Guidelines and Success Factors
Ploughshares accepts submissions all year. It has specific rules for each genre. Writers should check the magazine’s website for the latest guidelines.
Success factors include originality, literary merit, and fitting the magazine’s style.
By following these guidelines, writers can boost their chances of getting published in Ploughshares. This magazine is a key player in the literary world.
Lightspeed Magazine
Lightspeed Magazine is a top name in the literary world. It’s known for publishing top-notch science fiction and fantasy stories. It gives writers a chance to share their work with a focused audience.
Science Fiction and Fantasy Categories
Lightspeed Magazine covers a wide range of science fiction and fantasy stories. It welcomes submissions in many sub-genres. This makes it a great place for authors to share their tales of space, future worlds, or magical lands.
Payment Details and Rights Purchased
One great thing about Lightspeed Magazine is its payment for authors. They offer professional rates for stories they accept. It’s also key to know that the magazine buys the first publication rights.
Submission Process and Response Times
Submitting to Lightspeed Magazine is easy, with clear steps on their website. Authors can send their stories online. The magazine aims to give feedback within a few months.
By following the submission guidelines and being patient, authors can boost their chances of getting published in Lightspeed Magazine.
McSweeney’s Quarterly
McSweeney’s Quarterly is a top literary magazine known for its bold style. It’s a place where writers can try new things with their work. The magazine aims to publish stories that are both great and different from the usual.
Unique Style Requirements and Audience
The magazine’s unique style requirements mean it features a wide range of work. Writers are encouraged to send in pieces that are fresh and different. People who read McSweeney’s Quarterly are looking for stories that break the mold.
Payment Information and Publication Benefits
McSweeney’s Quarterly pays its writers for their work. This shows how much they value what writers do. Getting published here can really boost a writer’s career, thanks to the exposure to a wide and appreciative audience.
Submission Guidelines and Editorial Preferences
Writers should know about McSweeney’s Quarterly’s editorial preferences for new and top-notch work. The magazine’s website has all the submission guidelines. It’s important to read these carefully before sending in your work. The team looks for stories that are not only well-written but also unique and captivating.
Granta
Granta is a top literary magazine worldwide. It’s known for publishing fresh and bold writing.
Literary Reputation and Global Reach
Granta is famous for introducing new and well-known writers. It reaches readers and writers globally. You can read it in print or online, making it easy to access.
Compensation and Rights Acquired
Granta pays its writers well. It gets the first rights to publish their work. Here’s how much they pay:
| Category | Payment Rate |
|---|---|
| Fiction | $500 – $1,000 per story |
| Non-Fiction | $300 – $800 per article |
Submission Process and Selection Criteria
Granta takes submissions online. The editors look for originality and relevance. Make sure your work is well-edited and follows Granta’s guidelines.
Knowing Granta’s submission process and what editors want can help you get published.
FAQ
What are the best places to sell my short stories?
Look into publications like The New Yorker and Clarkesworld Magazine. The Atlantic and Glimmer Train are also good options. Asimov’s Science Fiction, Strange Horizons, and Tor.com are known for paying for short stories. You can also try One Story, Narrative Magazine, Ploughshares, Lightspeed Magazine, McSweeney’s Quarterly, and Granta.
How much can I earn from selling my short stories?
Earnings vary. Some publications pay $100 to $1,000 or more per story. Others may pay less.
What genres are in demand for short story sales?
Science fiction, fantasy, and literary fiction are popular. Asimov’s Science Fiction, Clarkesworld Magazine, and Tor.com focus on these genres.
How do I submit my short stories to publications?
Visit the publication’s website for submission guidelines. They’ll tell you about formatting, word count, and how to send your work.
Can I sell my short stories online?
Yes, online platforms like Tor.com and Lightspeed Magazine buy and publish short stories.
What are the benefits of selling to literary magazines?
Selling to literary magazines can boost your reputation. It exposes your work to a specific audience. It may also lead to more publishing opportunities.
How long does it take to get a response from a publication?
Response times vary. It can take a few weeks to several months. This depends on the publication’s process and the number of submissions.
Can I submit the same story to multiple publications?
Submitting to multiple publications at once is usually okay. But check their policies first. Some may not accept simultaneous submissions.
What rights do publications typically acquire?
Publications often acquire first publication rights. Sometimes, they take other rights too. It’s important to know their rights policies before submitting.
How can I increase my chances of getting published?
Editing your work and following submission guidelines can help. Submitting to the right publications also increases your chances.
Conclusion
Short story writers have many chances to earn money for their work. Markets like The New Yorker, Clarkesworld Magazine, and The Atlantic pay well. They offer up to $1 per word or more.
These markets not only pay well but also boost a writer’s career. Knowing how to submit and what stories they like can help. This way, writers can get published more often.
If you love writing, these markets can turn your hobby into a job. By finding the right places and writing great stories, you can make a living from your passion.
