How Much Should You Actually Charge as a Micro Influencer?
So, you’ve started growing your social presence, brands are sliding into your DMs, and now comes the big question: how much should you actually charge as a micro influencer?
If you’ve ever felt stuck between undercharging out of fear and overcharging out of ambition, you’re not alone. The creator economy can feel like the Wild West—but don’t worry. I’m here to help you get clear, confident, and unapologetic about your rates.
Let’s talk real numbers, real value, and how to price yourself like the powerful brand you are.
First Things First: What Is a Micro Influencer?
If you’re reading this, chances are you fall into the micro influencer category—typically someone with 1,000 to 100,000 followers on one or more platforms. You may not have millions of followers (yet), but you do have what brands crave:
High engagement
Authentic community
Niche influence
Trusted recommendations
Translation? You have real influence, and that’s worth real money.
The Influencer Rate Formula (A Starting Point)
Here’s a basic formula often used in the industry:
$100 per 10,000 followers + additional fees for usage, exclusivity, and deliverables.
But let’s break it down better:
PlatformBase Rate per Post (for 10K followers)Instagram Static Post$100–$250Instagram Story (1-3 frames)$75–$150Instagram Reel$150–$400TikTok Video$200–$500+YouTube Integration$300–$800+Blog Post (with backlinks)$250–$600+
💡 Pro Tip: Your niche matters. A beauty influencer with 5K engaged followers may be more valuable to a skincare brand than a 50K general lifestyle account.
What Else Should You Charge For?
Beyond your follower count, consider these income-boosting factors:
Content Creation: Are you shooting high-quality photos or editing videos? That’s a skill—charge for it.
Exclusivity: If a brand doesn’t want you working with competitors, they pay for that time.
Usage Rights: Are they reposting your content in ads, on their website, or forever and ever? Usage = $$$.
Turnaround Time: Need it tomorrow? That’s a rush fee.
Bundles: Multiple posts, stories, and platforms? Offer packages (and increase your rate accordingly).
Your Engagement Rate Matters More Than You Think
A brand would rather work with someone with 5K followers and a 10% engagement rate than 50K followers and a 1% rate. So calculate yours and keep that data in your media kit!
How to calculate: (Likes + Comments) ÷ Followers × 100
Confidence Is Currency
Listen closely: you are not “just” a micro influencer.
You are a trusted voice, a content creator, and a digital tastemaker. Charge accordingly. If a brand can’t meet your rates, that doesn’t mean you lower your value—it might mean they’re not your ideal partner (yet).
Final Thought: Set a Minimum Rate
Even if you’re just starting out, it’s okay to say:
“My minimum rate for sponsored content is $150.”
It sets a boundary, communicates professionalism, and keeps you from burning out on freebies that don’t serve your long-term growth.
TL;DR: Suggested Starting Rates (For Micro Influencers)
DeliverableSuggested Rate (1K–10K followers)IG Story$50–$150IG Post$100–$250IG Reel$150–$400TikTok$200–$500+Blog Post$250–$600+Add-ons (Usage, Exclusivity)+25–100%
Live Deliciously, Charge Confidently
Whether you’re just getting your first brand collab or leveling up your rates, remember this: your influence is valuable.Set your prices like a CEO, negotiate like a boss, and build a brand that pays you what you’re worth.
Want a free Influencer Rate Calculator and Pitch Template?
✨ You deserve to live deliciously—on your own terms and your own rates.