2024's digital marketing service costs in the U.S. range between $100 and $149 per hour on average, but prices can fluctuate significantly depending on the state.
Additionally, beyond just cost, understanding where these services provide the best value can make a substantial difference in a brand’s overall marketing ROI.
DesignRush's exclusive state-by-state analysis uncovers where businesses can find the most cost-effective digital marketing services and where rates are the highest.
Armed with this data, brands can strategically allocate their budgets, ensuring they get the best value for their marketing investments.
This ranking provides essential insights for business leaders looking to optimize costs and maximize ROI in a competitive market.
Key Findings
- Alaska is the most affordable state for digital marketing services in 2024, with the lowest average hourly rate of $14.55.
- Wyoming and Montana follow for cost-effective services, with average hourly rates of $43.88 and $45.57, respectively.
- Delaware is the most expensive state for digital marketing services in 2024, with the highest average hourly rate of $132.04.
- Nevada and Maryland rank 2nd and 3rd most expensive states, with average hourly rates of $107.47 and $102.47, potentially due to strong demand and moderate competition.
Top 10 Most Affordable States to Hire Digital Marketing Agencies in 2024
1. Alaska
- Average Hourly Rate: $14.55
- Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 96
Alaska is the most affordable state for digital marketing services this year, with an incredibly low average hourly rate. This might surprise some, but it makes sense when you consider the unique market dynamics in Alaska.
With less than a hundred agencies across the state, competition is limited, allowing businesses to secure high-quality services without breaking the bank.
2. Wyoming
- Average Hourly Rate: $43.88
- Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 272
Wyoming offers digital marketing services at a budget-friendly rate. Known for its wide-open spaces and small population, Wyoming doesn’t have the bustling, high-pressure business environment of larger states.
This means there’s less demand driving up prices, so businesses can find competitive deals among the agencies available.
3. Montana
- Average Hourly Rate: $45.57
- Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 199
Montana’s scenic landscapes and strong community spirit extend to its business environment. The state’s economy is heavily influenced by agriculture and tourism, and with almost 200 agencies operating in Montana, businesses can find affordable marketing services that fit their needs.
4. West Virginia
- Average Hourly Rate: $53.00
- Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 75
West Virginia is an attractive option for cost-conscious businesses. The state’s smaller economy means less demand for digital services, and with fewer agencies in the market, competition remains manageable.
5. New Mexico
- Average Hourly Rate: $59.38
- Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 169
New Mexico combines its rich cultural heritage with modern business practices. The moderate number of agencies gives enough room for competitive pricing, enabling businesses to secure effective services without overspending.
6. Mississippi
- Average Hourly Rate: $64.12
- Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 164
The state’s economy, heavily influenced by agriculture and manufacturing, is gradually embracing digital transformation. With many agencies to choose from, businesses in Mississippi can find affordable marketing solutions catering to traditional and modern industries.
7. Hawaii
- Average Hourly Rate: $65.50
- Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 159
With nearly 160 digital marketing agencies, Hawaii provides cost-effective services to help businesses thrive in a competitive tourism market.
8. Kansas
- Average Hourly Rate: $66.26
- Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 384
Kansas' strong agricultural and manufacturing base is reflected in its affordable average hourly rate for digital marketing services. Businesses have plenty of options to choose from within the state.
9. South Dakota
- Average Hourly Rate: $67.30
- Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 129
South Dakota's economy is supported by agriculture, finance, and tourism, all of which are heavily dependent on effective digital marketing strategies. Thanks to the large demand for digital services, businesses in South Dakota can find reasonably priced services.
10. Indiana
- Average Hourly Rate: $69.88
- Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 833
Indiana's diverse economy includes strong manufacturing and healthcare sectors, representing a high demand for digital marketing. The vast selection of agencies ensures competitive pricing, too.
Top 10 Most Expensive States to Hire Digital Marketing Agencies in 2024
1. Delaware
- Average Hourly Rate: $132.04
- Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 300
Businesses pay a premium for top-tier marketing expertise in Delaware due to its strategic location and high demand for digital services.
2. Nevada
Average Hourly Rate: $107.47
Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 1,095
As the home of one of the strongest economies in the U.S., the "Silver State" caters to a high-demand market. Driven by tourism, gaming, mining, and cattle ranching, businesses in Nevada are willing to invest heavily in their digital presence.
3. Maryland
Average Hourly Rate: $102.47
Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 850
Maryland ranks as the third most expensive state for digital marketing services. Its proximity to major centers like Washington D.C reflects the high demand for quality marketing expertise.
4. Pennsylvania
Average Hourly Rate: $101.66
Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 1,683
Pennsylvania is home to a diverse economy spanning from manufacturing to technology. Thanks to the strong presence of over 1,000 agencies, businesses can access a wide range of marketing expertise.
5. Arkansas
Average Hourly Rate: $100.33
Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 387
Arkansas' competitive environment, thanks to growth in its business sector, plays host to a diverse talent pool that includes specialists. This allows access to innovative marketing solutions tailored to specific needs.
6. Oregon
Average Hourly Rate: $99.47
Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 942
Oregon's digital marketing sector provides an array of services across tech, agriculture, and tourism. The state's creative culture fosters innovative marketing strategies, ramping up the demand for cutting-edge digital solutions.
7. Maine
Average Hourly Rate: $99.34
Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 175
Although home to a limited number of agencies, Maine offers specialized, high-quality services for local industries such as tourism, seafood, and agriculture.
8. Massachusetts
Average Hourly Rate: $97.14
Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 1,179
In Massachusetts, businesses can benefit from a wide range of marketing specialties, including technology, finance, and education.
9. Washington
Average Hourly Rate: $96.94
Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 1,470
Washington’s tech-driven economy is anchored by giants like Amazon and Microsoft. Businesses can tap into an array of expertise including technology, e-commerce, and outdoor industries.
10. Nebraska
Average Hourly Rate: $95.95
Number of Digital Marketing Agencies: 293
Although a smaller market, Nebraska offers a competitive landscape for tailored solutions that meet the needs of businesses without overspending.
Methodology
This ranking is based on the average hourly rate for digital marketing services across U.S. states.
- Data collection: We analyzed data from agencies nationwide, focusing on those where digital marketing is a primary service.
- Rate calculation: For each state, we summed the hourly rates and divided them by the number of agencies to find the average.
- Ranking: States were ranked from highest to lowest based on these averages.
- Validation: The data was cross-checked with industry benchmarks to ensure accuracy.
You can access the full dataset for Digital Marketing Average Hourly Rates in 2024 here.
