How should I charge for SEO services?
SEO Agency
Pricing depends on scope, location, and experience.
Common 2025 models:
(1) Monthly retainers – Most popular. Ranges from $500–$5,000+ depending on project size and geography.
Example: Local business SEO might be $700/month; SaaS SEO could be $5,000+.
(2) Project-based – One-time audits ($1,000–$10,000). Good for technical deep dives.
(3) Hourly rates – $30–$150/hour depending on expertise. Works for consulting or training.
(4) Performance-based – Rare in 2025 but sometimes used for affiliate SEO.
Best practice:
Clearly define deliverables (audits, keyword mapping, AI search visibility tracking) to avoid scope creep. Beginners should start low to attract clients, then raise rates as case studies build.
Further reading: