How much do freelancers charge for SEO?

How much do freelancers charge for SEO?

Freelance SEO specialists typically charge between $75 and $250 per hour, or $1,500 to $10,000+ per month for retainer arrangements. The wide range reflects differences in experience, specialization, geographic location, and the scope of services provided. Entry-level freelancers might charge $75-$100/hour while they build their portfolios, whereas seasoned consultants with proven track records of driving significant revenue growth can command $200-$300+/hour. Monthly retainers are more common since SEO requires ongoing work rather than one-off projects.

Hourly Rates Breakdown

Freelancers just starting out typically charge $75-$100 per hour. They're usually handling tactical execution like keyword research, basic on-page optimization, and content recommendations. At this price point, you're getting competent work but shouldn't expect strategic thinking or extensive experience navigating complex situations.

Mid-level freelancers with 3-5 years of solid results charge $125-$175/hour. They can develop comprehensive strategies, manage full campaigns independently, and troubleshoot technical issues. These consultants typically work directly with business owners or marketing managers rather than needing extensive hand-holding.

Expert consultants commanding $200-$300+/hour usually specialize in specific verticals or complex technical SEO. Freelancers working with SaaS companies on specialized strategies often fall into this tier because they understand subscription metrics and product-led growth, not just generic SEO tactics.

Monthly Retainer Models

Most businesses prefer monthly retainers because SEO isn't a one-time project. Expect to pay $1,500-$3,000/month for basic SEO services from a competent freelancer who'll handle essential optimization, content planning, and monthly reporting. This typically includes 10-15 hours of work monthly.

Mid-tier retainers run $3,500-$7,000/month and usually include comprehensive strategy, content creation or heavy editing, link building, technical optimization, and detailed analytics. This represents 20-30 hours of focused work monthly from someone who genuinely understands your business.

Premium freelancers charge $8,000-$15,000+/month for intensive campaigns requiring deep expertise. This tier often includes specialists in generative engine optimization or LLM SEO who are working on cutting-edge visibility strategies beyond traditional search.

Project-Based Pricing

Some freelancers offer project pricing for specific deliverables. A comprehensive SEO audit might cost $2,000-$8,000. Content strategy development could run $3,000-$10,000. Link building campaigns are often quoted at $1,500-$5,000+ monthly depending on the quality and quantity of links being pursued.

Freelancers specializing in helping businesses rank in AI results, similar to what AI SEO agencies offer, typically charge premium rates since this expertise is newer and less common.

What Determines Freelancer Pricing

Experience and proven results matter most. A freelancer who can show they've driven $500K in attributable revenue for past clients will charge far more than someone who just completed an SEO course. Specialization in niches like SaaS SEO also commands premiums because these freelancers bring vertical-specific knowledge that generalists lack.

The bottom line: cheaper isn't better in SEO. A $150/hour freelancer who delivers results will give you better ROI than a $50/hour one who spins their wheels.

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