How Much Does a Press Release Cost?
A press release can cost nothing or several thousand dollars. The price depends on two things: who writes it, and where it gets published. Here's how the costs break down and what you get at each level.
The short answer
| Option | Typical cost | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| DIY + free posting sites | $0 | You write it; one free listing |
| Budget distribution services | Under $100–$200 | Basic posting, often limited reach and no writing |
| Done-for-you distribution (like BrandInTheNews) | About $195–$800 | Writing + publishing on a network of news sites + report |
| Legacy newswires, national reach | Several hundred to several thousand dollars per release | Wire distribution; writing and extras usually extra |
| PR agency | Often thousands per month on retainer | Strategy, pitching and relationships |
Newswire prices vary by region, word count and add-ons and change often, so always check their current rate cards. We compare two of the best-known in PR Newswire pricing and GlobeNewswire pricing.
Press release writing costs
- Write it yourself: free. Use our step-by-step guide and template.
- Freelance writer: commonly around $100–$500 per release, depending on experience.
- Agency writing: higher, often bundled into a retainer.
- Included: some distribution services, including every BrandInTheNews package, include writing in the price.
Press release distribution costs
Distribution is where most of the money goes. You're paying for where the release appears and how many places carry it. Pricing is usually one of:
- Per release: one fixed price per announcement (the most common for small businesses).
- By region or circulation: local, state, national, international.
- By word count: some wires charge extra above a limit (often around 400 words).
- Subscriptions: a monthly or yearly plan for frequent senders.
What makes a press release cost more
- More sites or a larger audience.
- Placement on specific big-name outlets.
- Longer releases or extra images and video.
- Professional writing and editing.
- Targeting journalists in a specific industry.
- Rush turnaround.
BrandInTheNews pricing
One-time prices, no subscription. Writing, Google News inclusion, an "As seen on" badge and a live-link report are included on every package.
Starter
- 50 news sites
- Writing included
- Live-link report
- Google News inclusion
- "As seen on" badge
Growth
- 100 news sites
- Writing included
- Live-link report
- Google News inclusion
- "As seen on" badge
- AI citation recommendations
Authority
- 250+ news sites
- Writing included
- Live-link report
- Google News inclusion
- "As seen on" badge
- AI citation recommendations
- Priority editor
Ultimate
- All 400+ news sites
- Writing included
- Live-link report
- Google News inclusion
- "As seen on" badge
- AI citation recommendations
- Priority publishing
- White-label report
Optional Add-Ons — add to any package at checkout
More detail on the pricing page.
Our editors write your press release, publish it across our network of news sites, and send you a report with every live link. One-time price, live within 5 business days.
Start My Order — From $195 See pricing »FAQ
Is a more expensive press release better?
Not automatically. Pay for the reach you actually need. A local business announcing a new location rarely needs international wire distribution.
Are there hidden fees?
At some services, yes: word-count overages, images, and targeting can be extra. Our prices include writing and the report; the only extras are optional add-ons you choose at checkout.
Can I send a press release for free?
Yes. See free press release distribution for what that gets you.