What’s the typical cost of a resume writing service?
You’ll usually find resume writing services fall into three price tiers:
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Entry-level / budget ($50 – $150):
Often template-based, fast turnaround, minimal personalisation. Good for students or basic roles. -
Mid-tier / professional ($150 – $400):
Includes consultation, custom writing, and ATS-optimised formatting. Ideal for early to mid-career professionals. -
Executive / premium ($400 – $1,200+):
Strategic brand positioning, multiple drafts, LinkedIn updates, cover letters. Suited for senior roles, career changers, or complex histories.
Keep in mind: pricing isn’t just about the resume itself. You’re paying for time, expertise, and insight — sometimes from people with recruitment or HR backgrounds.
Why do prices vary so much?
Not all resume services are built alike. Here’s what affects cost:
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Level of personalisation: A one-size-fits-all template is faster (and cheaper) than a custom-written resume based on your career goals.
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Writer’s experience: Resume writers with recruitment backgrounds or certifications (like CPRW) often charge more — and often deliver better results.
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Scope of service: Are you getting just a resume, or are they also updating your LinkedIn, writing a cover letter, or offering career coaching?
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Turnaround time: Need it in 24 hours? Expect to pay a rush fee.
Think of it like going to a café — you can get instant coffee, barista-made espresso, or a full single-origin tasting flight. They’re all “coffee,” but the experience (and value) is wildly different.
Are resume writing services really worth the money?
For many job seekers, yes — especially if:
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You’re not confident writing about yourself
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You’re switching industries or roles
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You haven’t updated your resume in years
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You’re not getting interviews, even after applying widely
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You want to stand out in a competitive job market
A well-written resume doesn’t just tell what you did — it shows why it mattered, and positions you as the right fit. That kind of clarity can shave weeks (even months) off a job search.
One interview landed from a great resume often covers the cost — especially when it leads to a better-paying role.
Can you get scammed by cheap resume services?
Unfortunately, yes. Some red flags to watch for:
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No discovery call or questionnaire: If they don’t ask about your background, how can they write about it?
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Zero revisions offered: Reputable services will at least include one round of edits.
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Suspiciously low prices: A custom resume for $20? That’s likely AI-generated or plagiarised.
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Lack of transparency: If you can’t find the writer’s credentials, reviews, or samples — walk away.
How do you choose the right service for your budget?
Start by being clear on what you need:
| Need | Ideal Service Type | Expected Price |
|---|---|---|
| Quick update, low stakes | Template-based builder | $50 – $100 |
| Help rewriting and formatting | Mid-tier professional writer | $150 – $300 |
| Career change or complex experience | Premium resume package | $400 – $700+ |
| Executive-level branding | Top-tier personal branding expert | $800 – $1,200+ |
Don’t just pick based on price — choose based on fit. Look for writers or platforms that understand your industry, level, and goals.
Final thoughts
A resume isn’t just a document — it’s your first impression, your pitch, and your professional story all in one. So if you're investing in your future, it’s worth investing in how you present it.
For those seeking a blend of strategy, experience, and value, a few top resume writing services stand out — offering more than just nice formatting, but genuine insight into what hiring managers look for.
After all, the right words can open the right doors.
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