Copywriter Salary in South Africa: In-Depth Analysis of Salary
Copywriter is one of the most essential elements of advertising and marketing. The copywriting profession requires creative writing with strategic thinking goals. It involves designing web content that is not only informative and impressive but also highly efficient for businesses and institutions.
Copywriters are professionals who creatively write clear, sensitive, and compelling copy for all platforms. They work closely with creative teams to build marketing projects and campaigns, highlighting the profession’s collaborative nature. The average copywriter salary in South Africa ranges between ZAR 180,000 and ZAR 400,000 per year.
Are you considering a career in copywriting, and are you interested in learning about the average Copywriter Salary South Africa? In this article, we will learn the average copywriter salary and discover how to become a copywriter, the salary trends in different cities in South Africa, the top companies, and the skills required to become a copywriter.
Copywriter Salary in South Africa
The average copywriter salary in South Africa ranges between ZAR 180,000 and ZAR 400,000 per year. Copywriter salaries can vary from one role, company, or industry to another, especially considering the range of functions within digital marketing. Along with these, many other factors influence the salary of copywriter in South Africa. Here are some key considerations:
- Acquired Skills,
- Experience Level,
- Industry and Sectors,
- Geographical Locations,
- Demand and Specialisation,
- Education and Qualifications,
- Performance and Portfolio and more.
Average Copywriter Salary South Africa
The average Copywriter Salary In South Africa varies widely based on several factors. Based on their experience level and proficiency in digital marketing tools and certifications, they contribute to higher earning potentials. According to Glassdoor, here is the average salary for a Copywriter in South Africa on the level of experience:
| Average Copywriter Salary South Africa | |
| Entry-Level Copywriter Salary | ZAR 120,000 to ZAR 240,000 per year. |
| Mid-Level Copywriter Salary | ZAR 240,000 to ZAR 420,000 per year. |
| Senior-Level Copywriter Salary | ZAR 420,000 to ZAR 460,000 per year. |
Per Month Copywriter Salary South Africa
A Copywriter in South Africa can expect a competitive monthly salary that aligns with the increasing significance of digital marketing in the corporate world. The monthly pay for a copywriter varies according to company size, experience, and skills.
According to the Glassdoor, here is the average monthly earnings:
| Per Month Copywriter Salary South Africa | |
| Entry-Level Copywriter Salary | ZAR 10,000 to ZAR 20,000 per month. |
| Mid-Level Copywriter Salary | ZAR 20,000 to ZAR 35,000 per month. |
| Senior Copywriter Salary | ZAR 35,000 to ZAR 60,000+ per month. |
Copywriting Salary in South Africa | Highest-paying cities
In South Africa, the highest-paying cities for copywriters generally correspond with major urban centres where larger companies, advertising agencies, and corporate headquarters are often located. According to Indeed, here are some of the top cities known for higher salaries in the field of copywriting:
| Highest-paying cities in South Africa for Copywriter | |
| Cities In South Africa’s | Average Base Salary |
| Pretoria, Gauteng | R 23,634 per month |
| Knysna, Western Cape | R 23,542 per month |
| Cape Town, Western Cape | R 19,067 per month |
| Johannesburg, Gauteng | R 16,881 per month |
| Bryanston, Gauteng | R 16,756 per month |
| Somerset West, Western Cape | R 13,175 per month |
| Durban, KwaZulu-Natal | R 12,801 per month |
| Durbanville, Western Cape | R 11,918 per month |
Top Companies Salary for the Copywriter Roles
The copywriter salary in South Africa can vary widely depending on the company, industry, and specific role. According to Glassdoor, here are some top companies or types of companies known for offering competitive salaries for copywriter roles:
| Top Companies’ Salary for the Copywriter Roles | |
| Company Name | Average Salary |
| Osiris Trading | ZAR 36T – ZAR 36T per month |
| Momentum Metropolitan Holdings | ZAR 35T – ZAR 45T per month |
| Wunderman Thompson | ZAR 22T – ZAR 33T per month |
| VMLY&R | ZAR 21T – ZAR 31T per month |
| TBWA Worldwide | ZAR 19T – ZAR 20T per month |
| Joe Public | ZAR 18T – ZAR 25T per month |
| Ogilvy | ZAR 14T – ZAR 23T per month |
| 99c | ZAR 11T – ZAR 23T per month |
| Ignition Group | ZAR 1T – ZAR 30T per month |
Top Countries Paying High Salary for Copywriter Roles
Copywriters can find varying salary levels depending on the country and economic factors. According to Glassdoor and Indeed, here are some of the top countries known for paying high salaries for copywriters:
| Top Countries Paying High Salary for Copywriter Roles | |
| Country | Average Base Pay |
| South Africa (ZAR) | ZAR 15T – ZAR 26T per month |
| India (₹) | ₹4L – ₹6L per year |
| Canada (CA $) | CA$46K – CA$67K per year |
| Germany (€) | €36T – €49T per year |
| Australia (A$) | A$ 60k – A$ 83k per year |
| Singapore (SGD) | SGD3k – SGD4K per month |
| Switzerland (CHF) | CHF50T – CHF85T per year |
| United States ($) | $55T – $92T per year |
| United Kingdom (₤) | £26 T to £39 T per year |
Copywriter Vs Content Writer Salary in South Africa
The salaries of copywriters and content writers are likely to be determined by several factors. According to Glassdoor, here is a comparison of the two roles in terms of salary in South Africa:
| Copywriter Vs Content Writer Salary | |
| Copywriter | Content Writer |
| Entry-Level Annual Salary: ZAR 120,000 to ZAR 240,000 | Entry-Level Annual Salary: ZAR 120,000 to ZAR 216,000 |
| Mid-Level Annual Salary: ZAR 240,000 to ZAR 420,000 | Mid-Level Annual Salary: ZAR 216,000 to ZAR 360,000 |
| Senior-Level Annual Salary: ZAR 420,000 and above | Senior-Level Annual Salary: ZAR 360,000 to ZAR 540,000 and above |
While both roles can offer competitive salaries. Copywriters typically earn higher salaries than content writers, particularly at senior levels. This difference is often attributed to the direct impact of compelling copywriting on a company’s revenue and marketing success. However, it is essential to note that these figures may significantly vary depending on the individual’s experience, the industry of employment, and geographical location within South Africa.
How to Become a Copywriter in South Africa?
A copywriter is a professional who writes content specifically for a target market. They are usually responsible for creating precise and creative copy that is clear to the audience and convincing buyers to purchase a product. Becoming a copywriter involves developing creative writing skills, learning SEO and Digital Marketing Skills with Digital Marketing Course, and understanding marketing principles.
Here is a step-by-step strategy for becoming a successful copywriter.
- Develop writing skills by practising regularly,
- Understand the Basics of Copywriting,
- Build a Portfolio by:
- Creating sample work,
- Showcasing your best work.
- Join copywriting courses and gain relevant education and training,
- Understand Marketing and SEO by:
- Learning Marketing Principles,
- Studying SEO – Search Engine Optimisation.
- Gain Experience by:
- Start as a freelance copywriter,
- Look for internships or entry-level positions.
- Network with Professionals by:
- Attending events,
- Joining writing communities and,
- Stay Updated and Improve Continuously by:
- Keep Learning
- Seek Feedback
- Stay updated with industry trends, new copywriting techniques, and emerging marketing technologies.
- Consider specialising in a particular industry.
- Become an expert by deepening your knowledge in your chosen niche to become a go-to expert.
- Self-promote Yourself by:
- Promote on Social Media
- Develop a professional website to showcase your portfolio
By following these steps, you can build a successful career as a copywriter, combining your passion for writing with businesses’ strategic needs to create compelling and effective copy.
Skills Required to Become a Copywriter in South Africa
To become a successful copywriter, several vital skills are essential, which every aspiring copywriter should gain to thrive in their professional fields. Here are some of the top skills required to excel in this profession:
- Creativity
- Adaptability
- Research Skills
- SEO Knowledge
- Analytical Skills
- Time Management
- Exceptional Writing Skills
- Collaboration and Communication
- Understanding of Marketing Principles
Thus, by developing and honing these skills, aspiring copywriters can position themselves for success in this dynamic and rewarding profession. Gain these skills by enroling in a Digital Regenesys course.
Last Updated: 13 October 2025