The 2025 ProCopywriters Survey shows that copywriter day rates have jumped by 9%, the biggest rise in years. At first glance, it feels like a paradox. Aren’t we meant to be losing work to AI?
And yet, here we are. While 54% of survey respondents say they’d delete generative AI if they could, 69% are already using it and many say AI-generated content makes its way into final outputs.
In other words, this isn’t a profession that’s been wiped out. It’s one that’s being redefined. And the rise in day rates could be the first visible sign that copywriters are finally starting to claim their value, not as glorified typists, but as strategic, emotionally intelligent communicators who deliver outcomes, not just output.
So what’s really going on?
1. We’re selling thinking, not typing
Clients have tried AI. They’ve seen what it can do and, more importantly, what it can’t. In an era of AI-generated mush, good content stands out more than ever.
Copywriters who can interpret briefs, ask the right questions, manage stakeholder complexity and write with clarity and nuance are finally charging accordingly. This is not a race to the bottom. It’s a flight to quality.
2. We’re becoming strategic partners
The survey shows a shift in skills development towards content strategy, UX writing and consultancy. These roles are harder to automate and harder to do well.
This rise in strategic positioning correlates with higher day rates. It’s no longer just about words on a page. It’s about helping clients define what to say, how to say it, and why it matters, across the whole user experience.
3. We’re slowly getting better at setting boundaries
This year’s survey also confirmed that ghosting is rife, imposter syndrome is widespread, and the gender pay gap is growing. In short, many of us are still working without clear frameworks, fair processes or professional recognition.
But that makes the rise in day rates even more remarkable. It suggests that experienced practitioners are beginning to set clearer boundaries, push back on vague briefs and charge properly for work that used to be underpaid or unpaid.
It’s a start. But it’s not enough.
Why this links to the Copywriter Code
The rise in rates is good news. But it’s only part of the story. If we want to build on this momentum and help newer copywriters avoid burnout or underpricing, we need more than good instincts. We need shared standards.
That’s why the draft Copywriter Code of Practice and Code of Conduct matter so much right now.
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A Code of Practice gives clients and copywriters a shared understanding of how we work: from scoping and briefs to feedback and sign-off.
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A Code of Conduct sets expectations around professionalism, ethics and respectful collaboration, especially when working in teams or with clients who don’t fully understand what we do.
These documents aren’t about red tape. They’re about creating the conditions where quality work can flourish and where copywriters can thrive without burning out, undercharging or constantly having to prove their worth.
Final thought
Higher day rates suggest we’re starting to value ourselves more.
But let’s go further: let’s value the profession more, by making it more transparent, safer and more sustainable for everyone.
That’s what the Copywriter Code is really about.
We’d love your input.
You can read the draft Copywriter Code here: https://www.procopywriters.co.uk/copywriter-code/