Audiobook budgets vary widely, and for good reason. Knowing what drives cost helps you compare proposals and invest where it matters most.
Finished length
Production is usually priced per finished hour — the length of the final audio — rather than per word. A rough guide is around 9,000 to 10,000 words per finished hour, though pace varies by narrator and genre.
Narration approach
Human narration, multiple narrators, full-cast productions and AI-assisted narration each carry different costs. Author-narrated books still need direction, editing and mastering.
Editing, mastering and QA
Careful editing and quality assurance prevent rejection by retailers and protect the listener's experience. Ask whether these are included in a quote.
Payment structures
Some platforms support royalty-share arrangements with narrators instead of up-front fees. These change your long-term earnings, so read the terms carefully.
Comparing quotes
Compare like with like: what's included, revision allowances, file delivery, timelines and rights terms.
Official sources
This article is general information, not legal or financial advice. Platform policies change — please check official sources.