How Writing a Blog Can Make You Money (Even If You’re Just Starting)

You’ve probably heard people say, “I make money from my blog,” and wondered — how does that actually work?

Do you have to be famous? Do you need thousands of views? Do you need to sell something?

The truth is: Yes, you can make money from blogging — and no, you don’t need to be a tech genius or have a million readers to start.

Let’s break down how writing a blog can become a real income stream, step by step.

1. Ad Revenue (Display Ads)

One of the most common ways bloggers make money is by placing ads on their site.

You earn money when visitors view or click on those ads.

• Platforms like Google AdSense or Ezoic pay you automatically based on traffic.

• The more readers you get, the more potential ad income you earn.

• Some niches like finance, tech, or health pay higher rates than others.

Example:

A travel blogger writes about “Best Places to Visit in Thailand” and earns from display ads shown in the article.

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2. Affiliate Marketing

You recommend products or services in your blog posts and earn a commission when someone clicks your link and makes a purchase.

• Great for bloggers who write about books, tech, fashion, lifestyle, or tools.

• No need to create your own product — just share what you already love!

Popular affiliate networks:

• Amazon Associates

• ShareASale

• Impact

• Rakuten

• Booking.com (for travel bloggers)

Example:

You write a blog post about your favorite skincare products and link them with affiliate codes — when someone buys, you get paid.

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3. Sponsored Posts and Brand Deals

If your blog has a loyal audience or ranks well in search engines, brands might pay you to mention or review their products.

• This works especially well in niches like beauty, food, parenting, or travel.

• Brands care more about your influence and relevance than your follower count.

Example:

A kitchenware company pays a food blogger to write a recipe using their cookware.

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4. Selling Digital Products

You can turn your blog into a digital storefront by selling things like:

• E-books

• Guides

• Printables

• Templates

• Courses

Why this works: Your blog builds trust. If people like your free content, they’re more likely to pay for something deeper or more useful.

Example:

A personal finance blogger creates a “Monthly Budget Planner” PDF and sells it for $9.

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5. Offering Services

Blogging positions you as an expert. You can use your blog to promote services like:

• Writing

• Coaching

• Design

• Photography

• Consulting

Example:

A marketing blogger offers 1-on-1 coaching for small business owners and uses the blog to show off their expertise.

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6. Memberships and Subscriptions

You can offer exclusive content to readers who become paying members.

• Use platforms like Patreon, Buy Me a Coffee, or private blogs with locked content.

• Offer perks like early access, behind-the-scenes updates, or downloadable tools.

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7. Email List Monetization

Your blog helps you grow an email list — and that list can be incredibly valuable.

• You can promote affiliate links or your own products directly to subscribers.

• You build a deeper connection and trust through regular emails.

Example:

A wellness blogger sends a weekly email with helpful tips and includes affiliate links or product offers.

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So… Can You Really Make Money Blogging?

Yes — but it takes time, consistency, and strategy.

Most bloggers don’t get rich overnight, but with steady effort and smart monetization, it can become a full-time income.

Start simple:

• Pick a topic you love

• Write valuable, helpful content

• Add affiliate links or a freebie to grow your email list

• Stay consistent for at least 6 months

Your words can work for you — even while you sleep.