Growth Trends for Related Jobs
The Average Salary of a Literary Agent

Aspiring writers would have more difficulty getting their fiction and nonfiction books published without the assistance of literary agents, as many publishers don't accept manuscripts directly from writers. Literary agents review writers' manuscripts, make editing suggestions, and help authors negotiate advance payments and royalties from publishers. Their salaries vary, depending on experience and where they work.
Earn Less Than $60,000
While literary agents earned an average of $56,000 annually in 2014, according to Indeed, the bulk of their pay comes from commissions. Many are self-employed and pay their salaries from profits. Most have a bachelor’s degree in journalism, English or business. Primary skills for literary agents are persuasion, reading comprehension, negotiation, writing and speaking.
Higher Pay in South
Among the two highest-paying regions, literary agents earned slightly more in the South than the Northeast region, based on 2014 Indeed data. In the South, their incomes ranged from $50,000 to $70,000 in Louisiana and the District of Columbia, respectively. They averaged $50,000 in Maine and $68,000 in New York, which were the lowest and the highest salaries in the Northeast.
Publishing Marketplace Effects
Despite a “fast-as-average” 10 percent projected growth rate for agents of artists, performers and athletes by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, self-publishing may further reduce demand for literary agents. Literary agents typically advance their careers by working with more popular writers, which takes many years of experience.
References
- Indeed: Literary Agent Salary
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Data for Occupations Not Covered in Detail: Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes
- ONET Online: Summary Report for: Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes
- Indeed: Literary Agent Salary in Maine, and New York
- Indeed: Literary Agent Salary in Hawaii, and California
- Indeed: Literary Agent Salary in Louisiana, and Washington, DC
- Indeed: Literary Agent Salary in Nebraska, and Illinois
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