Have you ever wondered if it’s possible to get paid to write poetry? If you’ve done any sort of market research, you are already aware that poetry books typically only sell a few hundred copies during its lifespan.
However, below you’ll find a curated list of 25 sites, magazines and publications that will pay you for your poems so even though you may not get rich and famous as a poet (although, never say never), the answer is yes! There’s a wide range of sites and publications that will pay you to write poetry.
Whether you’re writing poetry as a side hustle or looking to kickstart a freelance writing career as a poet, this guide is a great place to start your search for paid publication.
Can I get paid for writing poems?
The short answer is yes, you can get paid for writing poems. A better question may be can you earn a living from your poems? That is less likely. Only a few poets earn significant amounts directly from their poems. Which is why it’s good that most poets write for the passion of crafting words that resonate rather than for financial gain.
When it comes to getting paid for poetry, you can expect compensation between $1.50 (that’s not a typo, it says one dollar and 50 cents) and $300 per poem. While this might not rival writing disciplines such as copywriting, blogging or other writing fields, publishing poetry can be a valuable stepping stone toward bigger opportunities. Think of it this way: each published poem builds your portfolio and consistent submissions may even (eventually) lead to a book deal.
So, want to get paid to write and quit your day job? The hard truth is for most of us, poetry alone won’t be enough. To succeed as a professional or freelance writer, you may need to expand beyond poetry.
By the way, joining a supportive community such as The Freelance Writers Den is a crucial step in leveling up your writing career. Freelancing is often a solo endeavor, but you don’t have to do it alone.
25+ sites that pay poets for poems
The sites in this curated section are sites that pay writers for their poetry. This is one of the many ways to become a freelance writer.
1. The Poetry Foundation—Poetry Magazine
Poetry Magazine, published by the Poetry Foundation, is one of the most respected literary journals in the world. They accept submissions of unpublished poetry, visual poems, and video poems—and yes, you get paid to write poetry here! Payment is generous: $10 per line with a $400 minimum for poems.
They welcome simultaneous submissions, but only send one batch at a time. Submissions close between June 15 and September 15 each year. Want your poem published in a legendary poetry magazine? This is the place.
2. AGNI
AGNI is a beloved literary magazine run by Boston University. They publish powerful poems, short stories, essays and hybrid work that feel real and fresh. You can submit poetry (up to five poems), personal essays and more. They pay $50 per printed page for accepted poetry (up to $300) and include a free one-year subscription.
Online submissions cost $3, or you can mail them in for free between September 1 and May 31. They allow simultaneous submissions, but no previously published work, not even on social media.
3. Epoch Magazine
Epoch Magazine, from Cornell University, publishes poetry, fiction, essays, comics and visual art. You can submit up to five poems per batch. They pay $100–$500 for accepted poetry, based on length and funding, and welcome simultaneous submissions. Online submissions open in August and January (with one free weekend each time).
They accept print submissions year-round, but only read in September, October, February, and March—so time it right for faster feedback. Add your email and address, and always include a self-addressed stamped envelope. If you enjoy writing poetry and want to get paid, this quiet but reliable poetry market is a solid pick.
4. The Fiddlehead
The Fiddlehead is Canada’s longest-living literary journal and has a reputation for publishing some of the best contemporary poetry out there. They accept submissions from both Canadian and international poets (at different times of the year) and they pay $65 CAD per published page, plus contributor copies. You can submit up to six poems or 12 pages.
They do not accept simultaneous submissions, so send one batch at a time. Canadian poets can submit from January 1–March 31, and international poets can submit from September 15–November 30. They allow mail-in submissions year-round. Expect a highly competitive process, but this is a dream placement for serious poets.
5. The Sun Magazine
The Sun Magazine pays poets $100 to $250 per published piece and accepts poetry year-round. They’re drawn to honest, deeply personal poems that explore the human condition. They accept simultaneous submissions, and there’s no strict line limit—but only send unpublished work.
The Sun Magazine is known for a personal, emotional tone that uplifts diverse, underrepresented voices. You can submit online or via snail mail, and response times can be several months. If you love writing from the heart, this one’s for you.
6. Blue Mountain Arts
Yes, you can get paid to write heartfelt poetry for greeting cards! Blue Mountain Arts offers $300 per poem if accepted for their cards, and $50 if used in one of their gift books. They want authentic, emotional poems—no rhymes, no clichés, no religious messages. Think of relationships, birthdays, friendships, and personal growth.
Blue Mountain Art accepts submissions year-round by email or regular mail. Deadlines apply for seasonal cards (e.g., Christmas: May 15). Keep it real, keep it sincere and skip the rhyming dictionary.
7. The Threepenny Review
The Threepenny Review is a highly regarded literary quarterly that publishes poetry, fiction, and essays, and they pay poets $200 per accepted poem. They accept submissions only from January 1 through April 14 each year. Anything sent outside this window is discarded unread. You can submit online (preferred) or by mail, but never by email.
Submit up to five poems in a single Word document and don’t include simultaneous submissions as they’re strictly prohibited. Response time is fast, usually between two days and two weeks.
8. Chicken Soup for the Soul
Looking to earn money writing poetry or prose with a heartwarming twist? Chicken Soup for the Soul accepts stories and poems for their themed collections and pays $200 for one poem. While they’re best known for prose, they do publish the occasional poem, especially if it’s uplifting, personal and ties into a current topic.
You must write in English and please note AI-generated or AI-assisted writing is not accepted. Check their Possible Book Topics for current calls and deadlines. Payment is only made if your work is selected for publication. They accept submissions year-round.
9. Three-Line Poetry
Three Line Poetry publishes—you guessed it—three-line poems. They don’t charge for submissions, and accepted poets receive a token payment of $1.50 per poem, or $10 for submissions marked as “Editor’s Choice.” You can submit up to three original, unpublished poems per issue.
They allow simultaneous submissions sent online or by mail. Rights remain non-exclusive, meaning you’re free to republish your poem elsewhere after publication. Perfect for minimalist poets looking to get their work out there without paying to play.
10. The American Journal of Nursing
The American Journal of Nursing accepts poetry on nursing, health or patient care as part of a focus on creative and scholarly work for nurses. Submissions must be original, unpublished, and follow the journal’s formal guidelines.
You’ll need to submit through their Editorial Manager platform, and your poem should align with the journal’s clinical or reflective themes.
Payment isn’t specified, but AJN is a respected, widely read publication, offering excellent exposure in the healthcare field. Ideal for poets with nursing experience or healthcare-related work.
11. Arts & Letters
Arts & Letters publishes poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction and flash fiction. They pay $10 per printed page (minimum $50), plus a contributor copy and a one-year subscription. You can submit four to six poems at a time during their regular reading period from August 1 to September 30. They welcome simultaneous submissions, but don’t send more than one submission per genre at a time.
A $3 submission fee applies, and all work must be uploaded online via Submittable. For Spring 2025, the journal will publish accepted work online only. A solid pick for poets seeking payment and publication in a well-regarded university journal.
12. New Letters
New Letters accepts poetry year-round and pays modestly, usually $25 per poem or review, depending on available funds. You can submit up to six poems at a time, but only one poetry submission at once. They allow simultaneous submissions and the journal responds within about six months. All work must be submitted via Submittable (no email or print submissions are accepted).
13. Strange Horizons
Strange Horizons is a speculative poetry journal that welcomes science fiction and fantasy, slipstream and experimental poetry. Poets can submit up to six poems at a time and they pay a flat rate of $50 per poem. They do not accept previously published work, which includes poems on personal websites. They allow simultaneous submissions but poets must withdraw work if it’s accepted elsewhere.
Strange Horizons seeks creative, playful work that pushes boundaries and welcomes voices from marginalized communities. They respond within four months. This publication is perfect for those exploring the speculative and experimental realms of poetry.
14. Cricket Media’s Various Journals
Cricket Media publishes a family of award-winning children’s magazines, each with a unique focus for different age groups. These include Ladybug (for young children), Babybug (for babies and toddlers), Cricket (for readers ages nine–14), and Spider (for children aged six to nine).
They accept stories, poetry, essays and art created by children and young adults, but do not currently have open calls for submissions. Check their website for updates on submission opportunities. These publications offer a chance for young creators to showcase their talent in front of curious readers who love quality writing and artistic expression.
15. Cicada
Cicada welcomes fiction, nonfiction, poetry and international literature in translation, with a particular interest in work related to Asia. Submissions can include short stories, creative nonfiction, poetry (up to 10 pages), and translations (up to 5,000 words or up to five poems).
The journal seeks work that challenges literary conventions and embraces marginalized voices. While they currently do not offer payment, Cicada provides a platform for experimental and insightful writing. They allow simultaneous submissions but contributors must inform the journal if the same poem is accepted elsewhere.
16. Kenyon Review
Kenyon Review is open for submissions annually during September and publishes short fiction, essays, flash fiction, poetry and translations. They offer submission themes such as Translation, Architecture, Lyric Essay and Cinema, with each issue focusing on a particular creative exploration. Payments range from $40 to $450, depending on word count.
They encourage writers to familiarize themselves with past issues, ensuring alignment with their aesthetic. They permit simultaneous submissions but they must be withdrawn if accepted elsewhere. Payment upon publication is offered with authors retaining the copyright to their work.
17. Iowa Review
The Iowa Review seeks to publish the best poetry, fiction and nonfiction, with a focus on introducing new voices. They accept manuscripts from August 1 to October 1 for poetry and fiction, and until November 1 for nonfiction. They pay $1.50 per line for poetry and $0.08 per word for prose.
Submissions must be previously unpublished and can be made via Submittable or by mail, with a $4 fee for online submissions (free for subscribers). They accept simultaneous submissions, but if accepted elsewhere, work must be withdrawn immediately. Response time is one to six months, and work is expected to be published about a year after acceptance.
18. Virginia Quarterly Review (VQR)
VQR publishes poetry, short fiction (2,500–8,000 words), and nonfiction (3,000–7,000 words), with a focus on literary journalism, memoirs and essays. They pay $200 per poem, with higher rates for fiction and nonfiction, often paying $1,000 or more depending on length.
Submissions are accepted via Submittable. VQR accepts simultaneous submissions but asks for immediate notification if a work is accepted elsewhere. Submissions must be previously unpublished and the response time typically takes up to six months.
19. Black Warrior Review
Black Warrior Review accepts poetry, prose, comics, nonfiction and experimental works during two reading periods each year: winter (December 1–March 1) and summer (June 1–October 1). They also feature a yearly contest, Boyfriend Village, with specific submission periods.
Their poetry editor seeks work that deconstructs whiteness and colonialism and their prose editor is interested in transformative and boundary-pushing work. They offer fee waivers for writers facing financial hardship or incarcerated writers.
Submissions should not exceed 6,000 words for prose, 10 pages for poetry, and 5,000 words for nonfiction. The review pays contributors, with payment varying based on the issue’s budget.
20. Subtropics
Subtropics seeks to publish literary fiction, essays and poetry from both established and emerging authors. The journal considers works of fiction of any length, from short shorts to novellas, as well as essays.
They appreciate translated works and occasionally republish important stories, essays and poems that have fallen out of print. Subtropics accepts simultaneous submissions but does not consider previously published work.
Submissions must be made via Submittable, with a $3.00 submission fee. Payment includes $1,000 for fiction and essays and $100 per poem. Submissions via mail or email aren’t accepted. The submission period is currently closed and will reopen in Spring 2025.
21. The Pedestal Magazine
The Pedestal Magazine supports both established and emerging writers, focusing on artistic diversity and celebrating individual voices. For Pedestal 96 (content posting in June 2025), they accept poetry submissions from May 5 to June 1, 2025. Poets may submit up to five poems in a single file.
The magazine does not accept previously published work unless specifically requested, and only accepts submissions through Submittable. Payment includes $50 per accepted poem. Submissions will be reviewed within four to six weeks and poets should not follow up until at least eight weeks have passed.
22. Arc Poetry
Arc accepts unsolicited poetry submissions during Spring (April 1–July 31) and Autumn (September 1–December 31) submission periods. Submit up to three poems or 360 lines of unpublished poetry in English or translations into English. Use Submittable to submit as paper submissions are not accepted. Poets may submit once per year and make sure to include a two or three sentence biography.
Please note that a $2 fee applies for poets from the USA, with waivers available. Payment is $50 per page, securing First Canadian Serial Rights, plus one free issue of Arc.
23. Boulevard
Boulevard accepts submissions from November 1 to May 1 via Submittable with a $3 fee. Prose may be up to 8,000 words and poetry may include up to five poems (no more than 200 lines). Payment ranges from $50 to $300, depending on length. Boulevard allows simultaneous submissions but require poets notify them if their work is accepted elsewhere. They accept postal submissions for contests (no fee, slower response) but do not accept email submissions.
24. The Southern Review
The Southern Review accepts submissions from September 1 to January 1 with a $3 service charge. Poets can submit up to five poems or 15 pages of poetry but please note that fiction and non-fiction submissions must not exceed 10,000 words.
Payment is $75 for the first printed page and $25 per additional page, up to $300, plus two copies and a one-year subscription. The Southern Review allows for simultaneous submissions but require notification if work is accepted elsewhere.
25. U.S. Kids Magazine
U.S. Kids publishes Humpty Dumpty and Jack and Jill, two beloved magazines for children. They accept submissions of playful, humorous poems that kids will love.
Payment starts at $25 for four to 12 line poems. They allow simultaneous submissions, but be sure to submit to the appropriate magazine: Humpty Dumpty (ages two to six) or Jack and Jill (ages six to 12).
Manuscripts should be double spaced with a cover letter and must follow the writer’s guidelines. This is a great opportunity for poets looking to reach a young audience!
26. Iron Horse Review
Iron Horse Review is a literary magazine accepting submissions of poetry, prose and flash fiction. They pay $50 per poem and $100 for essays or stories. They accept submissions through Submittable and allow simultaneous submissions.
Iron Horse also hosts annual contests like The PhotoFinish and the IHLR Book Prize for prose. Submissions follow a theme, so check the current guidelines on their website. This is a wonderful publication to get paid to write poetry and build your portfolio.
27. Palette Poetry
Palette Poetry offers generous payment for poetry with $50–$150 per poem. They accept up to five poems (10 pages max) and receive submissions year-round. Palette Poetry prioritizes underrepresented voices.
Only unpublished work is accepted, and Palette Poetry welcomes simultaneous submissions although poets must disclose if their work is accepted elsewhere.
Submit via Submittable for a chance to be featured in this respected poetry journal.
Final tips on how to get paid to write poetry
You can make more money from your poetry in a variety of ways. Here are a few ways to get your gears turning:
- Create a poet-for-hire listing: Create a listing offering custom poems at a reasonable rate. Add images and examples to attract clients. If you’re already an accomplished writer, you may also want to explore writing personal essays or reviewing books to add additional income streams
- Sell poems on Etsy: Creator sites like Etsy allow you to sell framed prints or greeting cards with your poems. Putting listings like this together takes time, but it can bring in income with the right marketing strategy and keywords
- Publish poetry books: If you have poems piling up, consider self-publishing a poetry chapbook. Doing this allows you to sell directly to readers and earn money from your poetry
- Take part in poetry slams: Poetry slams can be a fun way to earn cash prizes. Many events also offer opportunities for publication deals, leading to more income
- Print poems on items: Print your poems on products like T-shirts or coffee mugs. It’s a creative way to earn while introducing your poetry to a wider audience
- Submit to poetry contests: Enter poetry contests for a chance to win cash prizes. Look for contests that match your style to increase your chances of success.
- Launch a poetry website: Start a blog or website to showcase your work and offer commissions for custom poems. Adding a donation or “buy me a coffee” link can also provide extra income
- Try selling music: How about this: turn your poems into lyrics for music. The music industry offers many opportunities for poets to write lyrics, especially in genres like rap and country
- Write greeting cards: Many greeting card companies pay for short poems. This can be a steady stream of income while getting your own poetry out into the world
- Put your poetry on social media: Start recording videos of you sharing readings of your poems. Some platforms, such as YouTube and TikTok, allow you to monetize your content to earn money and reach new audiences
- Teach poetry workshops: Teaching poetry workshops can help you earn money while sharing your love for writing. Offer workshops online or in person for aspiring poets
As you can see, new writers can make money writing poems using several methods. If you love writing poems, stop waiting and start exploring freelance writing jobs.
FAQs
How much does a poetry writer make?
Poetry writers can expect to earn between $1.50 and $300 per poem, depending on the platform or opportunity. Journals, magazines and contests offer varied payment, often with rates based on poem length, quality, and submission guidelines.
While it’s tough to make a full-time income from poetry alone, submitting poems to online publications and literary magazines can provide a steady stream of income. To maximize earnings, consider building a portfolio of published poems and engaging in poetry writing services or freelance work to get paid to write poetry.
Can I sell my poetry?
Yes, you can sell your poetry! Many journals, magazines, and online poetry markets accept submissions and offer payment for your poems. Whether you submit to a poetry contest or literary magazine, you can sell your poems in various ways.
Sites like the Poetry Foundation or journals that publish poetry provide excellent opportunities. To get paid to write poetry, research submission guidelines carefully and ensure your work aligns with each market’s preferences, increasing your chances of a successful poetry submission.
What is the salary of a poet writer?
The salary of a poet writer varies widely. Most poets make money writing poems by submitting to literary magazines, poetry contests, and so on. Some may supplement their income with other writing services or freelance assignments.
It’s important to note that many poets also pursue other writing jobs to support their craft. Making a steady income from poetry alone is rare, but submitting often and getting published in top journals can build your portfolio, lead to book deals or paid speaking gigs and increase your overall income.
Does Wattpad pay you?
Yes, Wattpad does pay, but typically payment comes through their “Wattpad Stars” program, which offers writers the chance to earn from their stories. While Wattpad is more popular for short stories, there is potential to get paid for writing poetry on the platform.
By publishing your poems and engaging with readers, you can increase visibility and even participate in writing contests to earn money. However, if you’re focused specifically on getting paid to write poetry, consider submitting to specialized magazines, journals or online poetry markets for more consistent opportunities.
Do poets still make money?
Absolutely! Poets still make money, but it’s often through non-traditional avenues. From submitting poetry to journals and magazines to winning contests or selling your poems to greeting card companies, you can get paid to write poetry in various ways.
While earning a living strictly from poetry may be rare, many freelance poets supplement their income by offering poetry writing services, engaging in freelance opportunities or releasing poetry books. With the rise of online poetry publications, social media and self-publishing platforms, poets have more chances than ever to make money from their work.
How much does poetry sell for?
The price of poetry varies depending on the publication, platform, and the writer’s experience. Journals and poetry magazines typically pay anywhere from $1.50 to $300 per poem. Some companies may offer payment for shorter poems or verses used on cards, often paying a flat fee per poetry submission.
For poets who want to sell poetry, entering poetry contests or submitting to print and online magazines can provide lucrative opportunities. Remember, while poetry markets may not always offer huge payouts, consistent submissions and a growing portfolio can open doors to higher-paying opportunities.
How can I become a poem writer?
To become a poem writer, start by writing poetry regularly and honing your craft. Reading widely, including works in journals, poetry magazines and poetry books, will help you improve your style. Submit your poems to poetry markets that pay for work, like magazines or seasonal contests.
Consider publishing your poetry on a personal blog or self-publishing poetry books to showcase your work. Building a digital profile through social media channels or joining communities of poets can help you get noticed. As you gain experience, you’ll find more ways to get paid to write poetry.
How much should I charge to write a poem?
When charging to write a poem, rates vary depending on the project type, length, and experience. For freelance writing professionals and poetry writing services typically charge by the poem or per word. Rates for poems in journals or poetry contests generally range from $1.50 to $300 per poem.
If you’re writing custom poems for cards, websites, or clients, the price could be higher based on the scope. Always research submission guidelines and market rates before setting your prices. Ultimately, the more you get paid for a published poem, the more you can adjust your rates based on demand.
Can I make money writing?
Yes, you can make money writing, including writing poetry. While earning a full-time living from poetry alone may be challenging, you can get paid to write poetry in various ways. Submitting to journals, poetry contests, and literary magazines is a great start. You can also publish your work on your own blog or offer poetry writing services.
Many freelance writers supplement their income through freelance opportunities, teaching, or speaking engagements. As you build a portfolio and get published in various poetry markets, you’ll find more opportunities to get paid for your poems.
This is an updated version of a story that was previously published. We update our posts as often as possible to ensure they’re useful for our readers.
