Your complete guide to New York's publishing scene. Compare traditional publishers, hybrid services, and self-publishing companies.
New York City stands as the undisputed center of American publishing, home to the "Big Five" publishers and hundreds of independent presses. The city's publishing industry shapes global literary culture, setting trends and discovering voices that define contemporary literature.
From Manhattan's major houses to Brooklyn's innovative independents, New York offers unparalleled access to literary agents, editors, marketing expertise, and industry connections. The state's publishing ecosystem supports every aspect of book creation, from manuscript development to worldwide distribution.
Comprehensive directory of New York's top publishing companies
Combined output from New York publishers each year
From fiction to academic, covering all publishing needs
Editing, design, marketing, distribution, and more
Browse our comprehensive list of New York publishing companies.
The world's largest trade publisher, formed by merger of Penguin and Random House, with dozens of imprints.
Major global publisher with extensive list across all categories.
One of the Big Five publishers with strong commercial and literary lists.
Major publisher with imprints like FSG, Tor, and St. Martin's Press.
Major publisher with diverse imprints including Little, Brown and Grand Central.
Independent publisher known for literary fiction, poetry, and academic titles.
Prestigious literary imprint known for Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winners.
Renowned literary publisher within Penguin Random House.
Independent publisher of literary fiction and current affairs.
Independent publisher specializing in literary fiction and poetry in translation.
Brooklyn independent known for literary fiction and progressive nonfiction.
Nonprofit literary publisher with strong poetry and fiction lists.
Nonprofit publisher focused on social justice and progressive causes.
Brooklyn publisher known for noir anthologies and diverse voices.
Nonprofit publisher championing women's voices and social justice.
Independent publisher of progressive political and literary works.
Counterculture publisher of edgy literary fiction.
Independent publisher and bookstore supporting debut authors.
Leading academic publisher with global reach.
Academic publisher specializing in humanities.
Leading academic press in humanities and social sciences.
Academic publisher with focus on regional studies.
Independent publisher of international literature in translation.
Nonprofit publisher of avant-garde poetry and art.
Nonprofit publisher of international literature.
Brooklyn publisher of children's books and graphic novels.
Literary publisher known for discovering new voices.
Independent publisher known for innovative design and literary fiction.
Brooklyn independent focusing on emerging voices.
Publisher dedicated to international literature in translation.
Choose the publishing model that best fits your goals and budget
Traditional publishing involves submitting your manuscript to a publishing house for consideration. If accepted, the publisher covers all costs and provides an advance against royalties.
Best for: Authors seeking prestige, established authors, genre fiction
Hybrid publishing combines elements of traditional and self-publishing. Authors share costs with the publisher while maintaining creative control and receiving professional services.
Best for: Authors wanting professional quality, first-time authors, niche markets
Self-publishing gives authors complete control over every aspect of the publishing process. Authors handle all aspects from editing to marketing, or hire freelancers for specific services.
Best for: Authors with budget and time, established authors, entrepreneurs
Key factors to consider when selecting a publisher for your book
Before choosing a publisher, clarify what you want to achieve with your book. Are you looking for prestige and credibility? Do you want to maximize profits? Are you publishing for personal fulfillment or business purposes? Your goals will determine the best publishing path for you.
Not all publishers are created equal. Research each publisher's reputation, read author reviews, and check for any red flags. Look for publishers with a track record of quality work and satisfied authors.
Always read and understand the publishing contract before signing. Pay attention to rights ownership, royalty rates, termination clauses, and any hidden fees. Don't hesitate to ask questions or seek legal advice if needed.
Compare what each publisher offers and at what price. Look beyond the base price to understand what's included in the package. Consider the value of services like editing, design, marketing, and distribution support.
A good publisher should provide ongoing support throughout the publishing process and beyond. Look for publishers who offer guidance, answer questions promptly, and provide resources to help you succeed.
Ask for sample books published by the company and contact references from previous authors. Seeing the quality of their work and hearing from other authors can give you valuable insights into what to expect.