A poorly managed ad account can burn through your budget fast, with little to show for it. Explore vetted PPC agencies in the US on DesignRush and compare providers by platform expertise, campaign results, and pricing to find the right fit for your business.

Organic rankings are determined by five factors: top services, reviews, portfolio, awards/press, and team expertise. Sponsored listings pay for a placement that appears above organic positions. Sponsorship does not affect star ratings or review content - read more on our methodology page.

United States × Music × Sort by: Avg Hourly Price: High to Low ×Clear Filters
  • Content First Marketing.

    We are a marketing agency that specializes in video production...

    Top Services:

    • SEO
    • Web Design
    • Web Development
    • WordPress Website Design
    • Digital Marketing
    • Show more
    Location
    Rochester, New Hampshire
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $250/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    6 Projects Listed
  • #1 App Marketing Agency

    PreApps is the World's Leading App Growth Agency. Over the past 13+ years, the PreApps team has helped the most successful apps in the world launch and scale their app businesses to reach Millions of Downloads through our proprietary marketing programs...

    Top Services:

    • Digital Marketing
    • CRO
    • Social Media Marketing
    • Video Marketing
    • Design Services
    • Show more
    Location
    Boston, Massachusetts
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $200/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $50,000 & Up
    Portfolios Count
    8 Projects Listed
  • AI-Driven Discoverability Services

    Return On Now is a digital marketing consultancy based in Austin, Texas, specializing in SEO, paid media, content marketing and AI-enabled workflows. Their mission is to help businesses strengthen online visibility, drive qualified leads, and stay ahead in the evolving world of search and AI...

    Top Services:

    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Digital Services
    • Content Marketing
    • Digital Marketing
    • Show more
    Location
    Austin, Texas
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $200/hr
  • The key to success in today's market

    Deviate Labs has made a name for itself within the growth marketing/growth hacking world by helping companies grow. From bootstrapped startups like Dollar Shave Club and Shark Tank successes to global conglomerates, tattoo artists, Grammy nominees and beyond - Deviate Labs stands out as an experienced leader...

    Top Services:

    • Email Marketing
    • Advertising
    • Digital Marketing
    • eCommerce
    • SEO
    • Show more
    Location
    West Hollywood, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $199/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $25,000 - $50,000
  • The ideal team of WooCommerce experts

    With a wealth of experience as WooCommerce developers, we specialize in offering a diverse array of services meticulously crafted to enhance your digital presence and drive exceptional outcomes...

    Top Services:

    • Web Design
    • Digital Marketing
    • Social Media Marketing
    • PPC
    • SEO
    • Show more
    Location
    Phoenix, Arizona
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $185/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
    Portfolios Count
    14 Projects Listed
  • Target | Excite | Connect

    TEC Direct Media is a media agency in Chicago. We plan and buy media for artists, brands and agencies so they can generate awareness, acquire new customers and drive sales...

    Top Services:

    • Media Buying
    • Advertising
    • Digital Marketing
    • Video Marketing
    • Social Media Marketing
    • Show more
    Location
    Chicago, Illinois
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $180/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
    Portfolios Count
    12 Projects Listed
  • SEO, SEM & AIO Experts, Bay Area Website Design Agency

    Boomcycle Digital Marketing is a B2B Search Engine Optimization and Search Engine Marketing agency. We specialize in getting your message in front of your ideal prospects through our proven Intelligent Web Design and SEO processes. We are headquartered in the San Francisco East Bay, and work with clients here...

    Top Services:

    • Digital Marketing
    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Web Development
    • Web Design
    • Show more
    Location
    San Ramon, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $175/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $25,000 - $50,000
  • Big Ideas Start with SunerGarcia.

    We are SunerGarcia. We are an innovative digital marketing agency that focuses on building around technology and consumer experience. We build exciting brand experiences for our clients. Our team is a fine assortment of movers and shakers, creatives, designers, planners, tech enthusiast, and all around hard...

    Top Services:

    • Web Design
    • Web Development
    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Software Development
    • Show more
    Location
    San Diego, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $150/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Dynamic Digital Marketing.

    Electric Web Services propels your business into the digital spotlight with cutting-edge SEO, bespoke web design, and strategic digital marketing. Our expert team crafts tailored solutions that boost visibility, engage audiences, and drive growth. Transform your online presence with us today!...

    Top Services:

    • Web Design
    • Web Development
    • WordPress Website Design
    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Show more
    Location
    Ormond Beach, Florida
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $150/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • Elevate Your Digital Identity

    From Professional Web Design to First-Page SEO We Build the Tools That Grow Your Brand. Kid2Design continues to follow a project-based pricing model that emphasizes custom quotes tailored to a business's specific digital needs. Rather than rigid, one-size-fits-all tiers, they focus on individual project...

    Top Services:

    • Web Design
    • Design Services
    • Digital Strategy
    • Web Development
    • SEO
    • Show more
    Location
    Indianapolis, Indiana
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $150/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
  • Smart Enough for Fortune 500. Hungry Enough for the Fight.

    ZINC Digital is a Miami-born agency built for long games and real growth. We pair Fortune 500 experience with startup hungerguiding brands like Porsche, The Home Depot, John Deere, YMCA, and U.S. Oil Solutions. Our work spans SEO, paid media, branding, creative, and websites to convert...

    Top Services:

    • Digital Marketing
    • PPC
    • SEO
    • Web Design
    • Branding
    • Show more
    Location
    Miami, Florida
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $149/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • Growing Your Business Is Our Business

    DigitalEffex provides a comprehensive range of creative web services and business solutions. From professional web hosting, design, and development to strategic marketing and enterprise management, we help elevate your online presence and drive growth...

    Top Services:

    • Web Design
    • Managed Services
    • SEO
    • Logo Design
    • Social Media Marketing
    • Show more
    Location
    Pace, Florida
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $125/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    4 Projects Listed
  • Give your business the edge!

    Headquartered in Nashville, Digital Edge is a dynamic digital marketing agency dedicated to fostering business growth. With our strategic approach and comprehensive suite of services, we empower businesses to thrive in today's competitive digital landscape, driving measurable results and achieving lasting...

    Top Services:

    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Digital Marketing
    • CRO
    • Content Marketing
    • Show more
    Location
    Nashville, Tennessee
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $125/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Where Dreams Meet Vision

    BGM Film is a film production and marketing company founded in Los Angeles, with offices in Los Angeles and Milan, that develops cinematic content and integrated campaigns for brands, artists, and organizations. Its services include film production, marketing, and social media management, combining visual...

    Top Services:

    • Video Production
    • Branding
    • Social Media Marketing
    • Creative Services
    • Content Marketing
    • Show more
    Location
    Burbank, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $125/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    3 Projects Listed
  • SmartSites

    VerifiedVerified by the DesignRush team for authenticity and credibility.AI LeaderRecognized for strong visibility across AI-powered search and answer engines.

    Think Web. Think Smart. Partner With the #1 Rated Digital Marketing Agency.

    SmartSites deploys PPC across Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon, using proprietary tools to cut acquisition costs and scale leads. Certified specialists handle search, display, and remarketing for local, national, and ecommerce campaigns, backed by transparent, real-time reporting...

    Top Services:

    • Digital Marketing
    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Social Media Marketing
    • Email Marketing
    • Show more
    Location
    Paramus, New Jersey
    Number of Employees
    100 - 249
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Portfolios Count
    4 Projects Listed

    SmartSites Services

    • Digital Marketing
    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Social Media Marketing
    • Email Marketing
    • Web Design
    • Web Development
    • Advertising
    • eCommerce
    • Digital Services
    Data sourced from the agency's DesignRush profile, its website, and other relevant accounts
    • A&A Thermal Spray
    • AGA Truck Parts
    • Agape Health and Wellness
    • Agile Data Sites
    Data sourced from the agency's DesignRush profile

    SmartSites Reviews & Testimonials

    • Paloma Anguiano
      Paloma Anguiano Content Manager at JP Pierre, LLC.
      5.0★

      Digital Services Review from Paloma Anguiano

      Overall I feel very confident working with Patrizia and Darius from Smart Site, they have given us clear explanations and accompanied us throughout the process for the growth of the brand. The attention to us is very fast and they advise us in an adequate way.

    • Brianna Porter
      Brianna Porter Chief Operating Officer at The Ryan Law Group
      5.0★

      Digital Services Review from Brianna Porter

      SmartSites impressed me from day one. They are knowledgable, kind, and most importantly keep things simple and streamlined so that even an SEO-newb like me can understand. Tiffany and Luna are my main points of contact and they are especially great! I would recommend to anyone looking for an agency to really take their website and digital presence to the next level.

    • Jim Curry
      Jim Curry Owner at Royale Coffee Co.
      5.0★

      PPC Review from Jim Curry

      At first, a survey was conducted to gather company background, product information, target markets, etc. Next, accounts were established on various Google Business platforms, social media, etc. Then SmartSites created the ads and campaigns, and we were off and running in just a few weeks.

    Reviews verified by DesignRush and sourced from the agency's profile View All Reviews
  • College & Military Marketing for Todays Top Brands, Products and Services.

    College & Military Marketing Group's creative team can assist you in developing landing pages, display ads, graphics, and videos for social media. We also produce high-quality door hangers, postcards, and posters. Our bespoke publications include white papers, printed guides, eBooks, and custom-bran...

    Top Services:

    • Digital Marketing
    • Direct Marketing
    • Event Marketing
    • Social Media Marketing
    • Content Marketing
    • Show more
    Location
    Bradenton, Florida
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
  • A Helping Hand To Small Business

    We are Search 1 Media LLC, headquartered in Erie, PA, and we specialize in two key areas: the development of high-quality websites and the optimization of Google Ads campaigns. As a recognized Google Partner, our expertise is geared towards enhancing the performance of your business. Our commitment to...

    Top Services:

    • Web Development
    • eCommerce Development
    • SEO
    • Social Media Marketing
    • PPC
    • Show more
    Location
    Erie, Pennsylvania
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • The Marketing Agency For Startups & Local Brands

    We leverages Paid Search, Paid Social, and SEO to create growth engines for startups and service-based businesses! We help startups and local businesses unlock growth through innovative search and social strategies...

    Top Services:

    • SEO
    • PPC
    Location
    Waxhaw, North Carolina
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Helping Local Businesses Grow Online

    Misselhorn Media is a North Palm Beach, Florida-based digital marketing and design studio led by Chad Misselhorn, a solo marketing professional with more than 20 years of experience helping local businesses grow online. The company specializes in SEO, content marketing, digital advertising, email marketing...

    Top Services:

    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Content Marketing
    • Email Marketing
    • Graphic Design
    • Show more
    Location
    North Palm Beach, Florida
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $80/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • We have years of expertise assisting organizations exactly like yours to expand.

    Our team of experts is passionate about seeing our clients succeed, and we have a track record of delivering outstanding results.We provide a wide range of services, including search engine optimization, web design, pay-per-click advertising, email marketing, and many other strategies to help you connect...

    Top Services:

    • Digital Marketing
    • Web Design
    • WordPress Website Design
    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Show more
    Location
    Delta, Pennsylvania
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $75/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • A Shared Marketing Department

    SharedTEAMS offers coordinated marketing solutions for your mid-size business. We offer all the flexibility and cost effectiveness of freelancers, with the coordination and specialization that marketing agencies are known for. Remote since our inception, we have more than a decade of experience marketing for...

    Top Services:

    • Social Media Marketing
    • Digital Marketing
    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Email Marketing
    • Show more
    Location
    Miami, Florida
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $75/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • An award winning digital marketing agency specializing in SEO, PPC, and More.

    Launch Smarter designs high-performing websites and brand experiences for companies ready to scale. We blend strategy, design, and automation to help businesses grow smarterwith results that convert, brands that stand out, and systems that scale...

    Top Services:

    • Web Design
    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Graphic Design
    • Advertising
    • Show more
    Location
    Winchester, Massachusetts
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $75/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    14 Projects Listed
  • Improve Google Ranking, Convert Traffic, & Generate ROI.

    Many agencies focus on driving traffic, but thats only part of the puzzle. At Diffuse Digital, we go beyond just traffic we focus on driving revenue. By addressing every part of your digital strategy, we ensure that the traffic we bring to your site turns into leads, customers, and revenue...

    Top Services:

    • SEO
    • Web Design
    • WordPress Website Design
    • CRO
    • UI/UX Design
    • Show more
    Location
    Napa, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $75/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Can Provide You With the Results To Ignite Your Business.

    Keekee360Design is equipped to deliver the innovative content necessary to execute a comprehensive branding strategy to ignite your business...

    Top Services:

    • Package Design
    • Print Design
    • Graphic Design
    • Branding
    • Creative Services
    • Show more
    Location
    Huntsville, Alabama
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $60/hr
    Portfolios Count
    3 Projects Listed
  • Digital Business Solutions with a Difference!

    GrapesTech Solutions is a prominent IT consultancy renowned for delivering cutting-edge digital business solutions. Our expertise lies in offering comprehensive IT consulting, website development and design, and system integration services tailored to meet the evolving needs of businesses...

    Top Services:

    • Web Development
    • eCommerce Development
    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Direct Marketing
    • Show more
    Location
    Lewes, Delaware
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $50/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • The Fitness Marketing Agency

    MAGNA APEX was founded by Reneir Cruise in June 2012 and identifies itself as The FITNESS Marketing Agency, working with Clients that own small to medium business that specialize in Physical Fitness, Mental Wellness, and Financial Advisement...

    Top Services:

    • Digital Strategy
    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Social Media Marketing
    • Email Marketing
    • Show more
    Location
    Irvine, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $50/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • Boost Your Business Digitally with Our Expert Support

    Established in 2018, Mysearch Global Rewards evolved into MSGR, an innovative IT solutions firm boasting a strong presence in India, Dubai, and the United States. Under the guidance of a dedicated team of IT experts, each with over twenty years of experience in the field across more than a dozen countries...

    Top Services:

    • Logo Design
    • Branding
    • Web Design
    • eCommerce Development
    • Web Development
    • Show more
    Location
    Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $30/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
  • We Grow Great Companies Faster

    ClicksBridge Internet Marketing Agency is a full-service agency specializing in lead generation, PPC, social media marketing and management, SEO, web design and development, and more...

    Top Services:

    • Digital Strategy
    • Web Design
    • WordPress Website Design
    • Web Development
    • PPC
    • Show more
    Location
    Denver, Colorado
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $30/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Fastest Growing IT Company

    ABTACH DMCC is a UAE-based company that offers a wide range of services to meet client needs. We analyze every aspect of your business, including its history and organizational patterns. This in-depth approach allows us to provide customized solutions, from social media marketing to SEO services...

    Top Services:

    • Branding
    • Logo Design
    • UI/UX Design
    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Show more
    Location
    Dallas, Texas
    Number of Employees
    100 - 249
    Average Hourly Rate
    $30/hr
  • Websites and marketing built for local businesses.

    Hometown Marketing Agency helps Kansas City businesses look better online, get found locally, and turn more visitors into leads. We build clean, conversion-focused websites, improve local SEO, manage paid ads, and create marketing systems that help small businesses grow without feeling overwhelmed...

    Top Services:

    • Web Design
    • Web Development
    • SEO
    • Advertising
    • PPC
    • Show more
    Location
    Overland Park, Kansas
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $30/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • Leading Web and Mobile App Development Company in India, USA, & AUS

    Techcronus Business Solutions is a global provider of enterprise business solutions and modern-day technology services...

    Top Services:

    • Mobile App Development
    • Web Development
    • PPC
    • SEO
    • UI/UX Design
    • Show more
    Location
    Los Angeles, California
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $25/hr
    Portfolios Count
    14 Projects Listed
  • Grow Bigger, Think Brighter.

    Digital GrowT is your partner in navigating the digital landscape. With a suite of services including SEO, PPC, social media management, and reputation management, we empower brands to thrive online. Our expert team crafts tailored strategies that boost visibility and engagement, ensuring your business stands...

    Top Services:

    • Web Design
    • eCommerce Development
    • WordPress Website Design
    • Web Development
    • SEO
    • Show more
    Location
    Jersey City, New Jersey
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $24/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    2 Projects Listed
  • Design | Development | Marketing | Research

    Empowering Every Stage of Your Business Journey through latest Technology & Digital Marketing Strategies.Every business, regardless of its industry or stage, has a unique story to tell. At GOIGI, we understand that narrative and offer a full spectrum of essential services to guide you through every chapter...

    Top Services:

    • Web Design
    • Web Development
    • Mobile App Development
    • Software Development
    • Digital Marketing
    • Show more
    Location
    Delaware City, Delaware
    Number of Employees
    100 - 249
    Average Hourly Rate
    $15/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Digital Marketing | Design | Content | Web Development | 18+ Yrs

    Astha Technology Solutions is a digital marketing agency founded in 2008 with 18+ years of experience and 1,200+ clients served. Our 30+ experts deliver SEO, PPC, Social Media, Content, Lead Generation, CRO, Email Marketing, Automation, & Web Development, focused on measurable growth...

    Top Services:

    • SEO
    • PPC
    • Social Media Marketing
    • Branding
    • Graphic Design
    • Show more
    Location
    Tempe, Arizona
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $15/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Confidence In Every Campaign

    Blueprint is an online marketing agency founded in 2003, offering SEO, PPC, paid social, email marketing, and web design services to businesses across the US. We work with local businesses, national brands, and fortune 500 companies alike in 70+ industries, giving our team a vast amount of marketing insight...

    Top Services:

    • SEO
    • Digital Marketing
    • PPC
    • Creative Services
    • Reputation Management
    • Show more
    Location
    Duluth, Georgia
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $15/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000

Why companies trust DesignRush

Every agency is independently vetted before it can be listed or ranked

1

Identity Check

We verify businesses and reviewer LinkedIn profiles for integrity.

Agencies vetted
130,959+
2

Portfolio Review

We review agency work, case studies, and results to confirm skill.

Applicants rejected
47%
3

Ongoing Audit

We monitor listings regularly; outdated agencies are removed.

Agencies verified
35

Some agencies pay for sponsored placement, clearly labeled and held to the same vetting standards.

See how rankings and monetization work.

7 FAQs About PPC Agencies in the US

What services does a pay per click agency in the US provide?

Pay per click agencies in the US offer a full spectrum of specialized services that integrate paid media into the broader marketing and revenue strategy and enable businesses to acquire more customers and grow demand on targeted channels. 

Guided by data to make spend decisions, eliminate waste, and maximize return on investment (ROI), the role of these specialists is to make each advertising dollar accountable.  

As part of its portfolio, a PPC agency provides campaign planning, keyword research, ad creation, copywriting, bid management, budget allocation, A/B testing, and performance tracking.

Professional PPC services are greatly sought after, as the majority of companies (60%) outsource PPC managementto agencies, while 20% work with freelancers, and only one in five businesses maintains an in-house paid media team.

How much does a pay-per-click agency charge in the US?

PPC companies in the US typically charge from $100 to $150 per hour. In addition to hourly-based models, these agencies operate on the following pricing models: 

  • Fixed monthly fee or a subscription: Ranges from $1,500 to $10,000, depending on the campaign size and scope 
  • Percentage of ad spend: Typically falls between 10-30%, with the percentage often decreasing as ad spend increases 
  • Performance-based pricing: Payment is tied to results, such as the number of leads or conversions generated 
  • Project-based pricing: Entails a one-time fee for a specific project, unaffected by ad spend 

Predominantly, agencies price their services based on a % of monthly ad spend, with over 50% of PPC companies using this model as their primary. Following closely at 33%-35% are agencies charging a flat monthly fee. 

What do US pay-per-click agencies charge that most buyers don't expect?

 Setup fees, creative production, tracking implementation, and tool costs rarely appear in the proposal. Here’s what to expect: 

Add-on Typical range 
One-time setup fee$500 – $2,500
Conversion tracking setup$300 – $1,500
Ad creative production$300 – $1,500/month
Tool subscriptions$100 – $500/month
Early termination fee1 - 3 months retainer

Before signing, ask for a sample first invoice from a client at your scope level. 

How do I know if I'm hiring the right pay per click company in the US for my budget?

Most PPC agencies have an effective minimum. Below roughly $3,000 in monthly ad spend, there is not enough data volume for the bidding algorithm to optimize, and not enough margin for the agency to staff the account with anyone senior. If an agency is willing to take any budget without flagging this, that is worth noting. 

Budget fit also affects how you should think about pricing. An agency charging a percentage of ad spend earns more when you spend more. Considering that, at lower budgets, misalignment is manageable, but above $20,000 a month, it becomes a real incentive problem. 

Before signing, ask directly how their fee structure changes as your spend scales. 

What is a realistic timeline to see results from a PPC agency, and what should I expect week by week?

A well-run PPC engagement should show directional movement in cost-per-conversion within three months. 

Here is what the agency should be delivering at each stage: 

  • Days 1 to 30: Conversion tracking confirmed, campaign structure built, baseline CPA or ROAS established, and a documented hypothesis about what will move performance and why. 
  • Days 30 to 60: Active testing underway with ad copy variants, audience segments, and match type adjustments. You should be able to see what is being tested and what the agency expects to learn from it. 
  • Days 60 to 90: Early performance data available. The agency should be able to tell you what did/didn’t work and what changes are planned for the strategy going forward. 

How can I tell if my current PPC strategy is underperforming before I hire anyone?

Check these five things before you brief a single agency: 

  • Conversion tracking is recording the wrong events. If your campaigns are optimizing toward page views or session starts instead of form fills, calls, or purchases, every performance number in your account is built on a bad signal. 
  • Your search terms report is full of irrelevant queries. If you are paying for clicks from searches that have nothing to do with what you sell, your negative keyword strategy is either absent or neglected. 
  • Cost per conversion has been climbing with no change in targeting. Gradual CPA increases without a plausible explanation usually mean the account has not been actively managed; automated bidding running on its own is not optimization. 
  • Your best-performing campaigns have never been tested. If ad copy, landing pages, and audience segments have been static for more than 90 days, the performance is not being optimized; it is merely running. 
  • You have no visibility into which campaigns are driving revenue. If your reporting stops at leads or clicks and does not connect to closed business, you cannot tell what is working. 

What are the red flags when evaluating PPC agencies in the US?

Here are some common warning signs to watch out for in PPC agencies in the US: 

  • They guarantee specific results. PPC runs on an auction. No one controls what competitors bid, how the algorithm weights signals, or how your landing page converts.  
  • Their reporting lives in a proprietary dashboard you cannot export. If your performance data only exists inside their platform, you own nothing when the relationship ends. 
  • They have never worked in your vertical. Industry context affects keyword intent, competitor behavior, and conversion patterns. Specialized sectors often require tailored approaches, such as dedicated PPC strategies for law firms. An agency learning your space on your budget is a real cost.
  • They push to increase the budget before the current spending is profitable. Scaling an unprofitable account spends more money at the same losing rate.