How Many Words Is the Average Novel?

Whether you’re writing your first book or just curious about how long a novel typically is, one question pops up more than any other: How many words is the average novel?

The short answer: most novels fall between 70,000 and 100,000 words, but that range depends on genre, audience, and publishing goals. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from average novel word counts by genre to how many pages your word count translates to.

What Is the Average Novel Word Count?

A typical novel today contains between 70,000 and 100,000 words. This range allows enough depth to build character, setting, and plot without overwhelming readers or publishers.

However, depending on the genre and intended audience, novels can be shorter or much longer.

How Long Is a Novel—In Pages?

When readers ask “how long is a novel,” they’re often thinking in terms of pages, not word counts. A common rule of thumb is:

One printed page = 250 to 300 words (double-spaced in Times New Roman, 12 pt font).

So:

• A 90,000-word novel is roughly 300–360 pages.

• A 50,000-word novel (like The Great Gatsby) is about 160–200 pages.

Keep in mind, formatting choices (font, spacing, trim size) can impact final page count.

Word Count Breakdown by Genre

Here’s a deeper dive into genre-specific expectations:

1. Romance

• Often between 50,000 and 90,000 words

• Category romance (like Harlequin): closer to 50,000–70,000

• Single-title romance: 80,000–100,000 common

2. Science Fiction & Fantasy

• These often run long due to world-building

• Expect 90,000 to 150,000+ words

• Epics like The Way of Kings can exceed 300,000

3. Mystery/Thriller

• Typically 70,000 to 100,000 words

• Fast-paced with tight plotting

4. Young Adult (YA)

• 50,000 to 80,000 is common

• Simpler plots and shorter chapters

5. Middle Grade

• Ideal for ages 8–12: 25,000 to 55,000 words

• Focus on clarity, humor, and relatable stakes

Why Does Word Count Matter?

Whether you’re aiming for traditional publishing or self-publishing, word count signals professionalism and helps manage reader expectations.

For Traditional Publishing:

• Agents and editors expect industry-standard ranges

• A 200,000-word debut novel may be rejected on length alone

For Readers:

• Long books signal deep stories (great for fantasy)

• Shorter books appeal to busy or reluctant readers

And For Formatting:

• Word count affects print cost and ebook file size

• Helps determine binding, paper cost, and royalties

How Many Pages Is 10,000 Words?

If you’re estimating based on standard formatting:

This assumes 12 pt font, double spacing, and standard margins.

How Many Words Per Page?

Depending on formatting, here’s what you can expect:

• Manuscript page (double spaced): ~250–300 words

• Paperback novel (6″ x 9″, single spaced): ~300–350 words

• Hardcover or trade paperback: ~275–325 words

Variables include font size, paragraph length, dialogue use, and trim size.

Tips for Authors Tracking Word Count

If you’re writing a novel, tracking your word count helps you:

• Stay on schedule

• Hit genre expectations

• Avoid overwriting or underdeveloping plot points

Useful Tools:

• Scrivener: Custom targets and chapter tracking

• Google Docs: Built-in word counter

• Grammarly / Hemingway Editor: For editing and readability

• NaNoWriMo Tracker: Great for writing challenges

Weekly Draft Goal Example:

Want to write an 80,000-word novel in 3 months?

• 80,000 ÷ 12 weeks = 6,667 words per week

• That’s about 950 words per day if you write daily

Conclusion: Know Your Word Count Before You Publish

Knowing the average novel word count helps you write with purpose, edit with clarity, and publish with confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• Most novels fall between 70,000 and 100,000 words

• Different genres have different expectations

• Page count depends on formatting (250–300 words/page)

• Word count matters to publishers, readers, and your wallet

If you’re writing a fast-paced thriller or an epic fantasy, keep your word count goal in mind—but don’t let it stifle your creativity. A great story is always the priority.

FAQs: Answering the Most Asked Word Count Questions

How many words is the average novel?

The average novel is 70,000 to 100,000 words, depending on genre.

How long is a novel?

Most novels are 250–400 pages long in print, which equals roughly 70k–100k words.

How many words is a novel?

Technically, anything over 40,000 words is considered a novel. However, most published novels range from 70k–100k words.

How many words per page?

A standard manuscript page typically contains 250 to 300 words, while a printed novel page usually holds 300 to 350 words, depending on formatting choices like font, spacing, and trim size.

How many words is an average novel?

Again, roughly 80,000 words, though YA novels can be shorter, and fantasy often runs longer.

How many words in an average book?

The average nonfiction or fiction book is typically 60,000 to 100,000 words.

How many pages is 10,000 words?

Approximately 35 to 40 pages, depending on formatting.

How many pages is 300 words?

Roughly one to one and a half pages, depending on font and spacing.

Average novel word count?

About 80,000 words, but varies by genre.

How many words in a typical novel?

Expect around 70,000 to 100,000 words for a standard-length novel.

Average novel length word count?

Between 70k–100k words, though debut novels are often advised to stay under 90k.