Listverse Review: Can You Really Make Money Writing Top 10 Lists?

Listverse is an online platform that has built a reputation for publishing entertaining, thought-provoking, and sometimes bizarre “Top 10” lists. With categories spanning everything from science and history to conspiracy theories and unsolved mysteries, the site has become a popular source for viral content often seen on YouTube or social media. But beyond its role as a content hub for curious readers, Listverse also presents an opportunity for freelance writers to earn money—at least in theory.

This article takes a deeper look into Listverse as a potential writing gig: its requirements, payment structure, credibility, and what real contributors have said about working with the platform.

What Is Listverse?

Founded in 2007, Listverse is an established website that specializes in publishing list-based articles written in a casual and engaging tone. Each article typically follows a “Top 10” format and caters to a wide audience by blending entertainment with obscure facts.

The platform claims to have over 8 million readers and has reportedly been featured on BBC Radio, BBC World News, and other mainstream media outlets.

Its content ranges from:

• Science and history

• Weird facts and trivia

• Pop culture and entertainment

• Mysteries and paranormal events

• Crime, conspiracy, and dark history

Many of the videos seen on YouTube with titles like "10 Creepiest Places on Earth" or "Top 10 Unexplained Events" often draw inspiration from—or even directly source—their scripts from Listverse articles.

How Writers Can Contribute

Listverse invites submissions from freelance writers and content creators interested in contributing to its ever-growing library of lists. According to the site, anyone from eligible countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa can submit articles for consideration.

Requirements:

• Lists must contain at least 10 items, each with a brief but informative description.

• The minimum word count is usually around 1,500 words.

• Articles must be original, fact-checked, and engaging.

• Submissions must adhere to a comprehensive style guide, which some users have described as being up to 17 pages long.

Although the site claims it’s "easy" to write these lists, many contributors disagree, citing the length and strictness of the guidelines as a barrier for beginners.

Payment: $50 or $100?

This is where things get a bit murky. On different pages of the Listverse website, there are conflicting statements regarding payment:

• One section says contributors are paid $50 per accepted list.

• Another claims writers can earn up to $100 per accepted article.

It's unclear whether the difference is due to updates, article quality, bonuses, or simple oversight. As of the most consistent and recent public information, $100 USD per accepted article appears to be the current standard.

Payments are reportedly made via PayPal, and only for approved submissions. Rejected articles receive no compensation.

Mixed Reviews from Contributors

While Listverse presents an appealing opportunity for freelance writers, particularly those looking to break into the content space, user reviews are sharply divided.

Negative Feedback:

• SiteJabber Rating: 1.5 stars, based on multiple reviews.

• Several contributors report that they never received feedback after submitting, with some feeling ghosted or scammed.

• On Quora, a few users mention writing multiple articles (sometimes 4–5), all of which were rejected with no detailed explanation.

• Complaints also mention time wasted, as many writers invest several hours per article only to face rejection.

Positive Experiences:

• Some users do report getting accepted and paid. For example, one reviewer mentioned that her daughter submitted five articles, of which two were accepted.

• Others say the platform is legit but highly competitive, suggesting that only experienced or very skilled writers tend to get through.

These contrasting reviews indicate that while Listverse is not a scam, it may not be worth the effort for everyone, particularly beginners without strong writing and research experience.

Is It Worth It?

That depends on your expectations and writing background.

✅ Pros:

• Pays a decent amount per article ($100 if accepted).

• No need for a portfolio to submit.

• Interesting and creative writing topics.

❌ Cons:

• No pay for rejected articles.

• Vague or absent feedback.

• Complex guidelines that can be overwhelming for new writers.

• Limited to certain countries.

If you are an experienced writer who enjoys storytelling, fact-finding, and crafting compelling lists, Listverse might be a viable option—especially if you're comfortable with the risk of rejection. For beginners, however, the time investment may not pay off.

Final Thoughts

Listverse is a legitimate but highly selective content platform for freelance listicle writers. Its wide range of fascinating topics, viral potential, and fair pay per accepted post make it attractive—at least on the surface. However, mixed user experiences and lack of feedback for rejections mean that writers should approach it with measured expectations.

It’s best suited for those who have time to spare, a thick skin for rejection, and a passion for unique and well-researched content. As with any writing gig, always do your due diligence and don’t bank on it as a primary income stream.