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How Much Does Social Media Management Cost in 2025?

With the rise in digitalization, social media has become a stage where businesses can directly connect with their potential customers. According to analysis by Kepios, there are 5.24 billion social media users around the world as of January 2025. This consists of 63.9% of the total global population, and social media marketing can help your brand to engage and connect with the audience directly.

While social media marketing can be a useful addition to your digital marketing strategy, how much does social media management cost? As per the analysis, it costs around $500 – $5,000 per month on average. There are a multitude of factors that influence the costs, like the number of social media platforms you would want to manage, whether you will be working with a freelancer or an agency, and the deliverables included in the social media marketing service package.

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    What Affects the Cost of Social Media Management?

    A strategic social media marketing helps in driving brand awareness and engagement across different social media platforms for your target audience, generating leads, and cultivating customer relationships. So, there is no straightforward approach to determining the exact social media marketing pricing. However, some aspects can help you to estimate the social media management pricing:

    Bing Ads / Social Media Marketing

    Number of platforms

    The workload and the time required for the social media management project vary according to the number of platforms/channels you intend to include in the service you are signing up for. The average number of social media users uses 6.83 platforms on a monthly basis. So, as per the market research, the team finds out on which platforms your audience is more active, and accordingly the number of platforms is chosen. Since each platform will require a unique strategy, the social media agency pricing might differ.

    Email Marketing Optimization

    Content creation

    If you don’t appear in front of your audience regularly on social media platforms, you will end up being forgotten, both by the people who follow you and by the algorithm of the platform itself. The team of graphic designers, copywriters, and content writers work on creating originating, useful content for your audience that will distinguish you from your competitors. From industry-relevant know-how and quick tips to data and insights, local news, informative posts, polls, contests, and questions, the more diverse the content, the more the charges.

    Social Media Marketing Strategy

    Advertising and analytics

    Advertising is the major cost driver in social media marketing packages, but with smart advertising, businesses can save money. Like vague targeting, poor creatives, and a weak call-to-action directly translate to low engagement and high ad costs. However, running optimized ads can lower the cost-per-click (CPC) or cost-per-acquisition (CPA) costs. With comprehensive analytics reports and insights, the experts can analyze which tactics are working, which target audience group is more active, etc, and refine the strategy to drive more goal-oriented outcomes.

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    Engagement

    Engagement has a direct influence on social media marketing pricing, regardless of the nature of campaigns, like whether it is a paid one or organic. Better engagement means lower ad costs because the social media platforms reward high-performing posts. Like, Facebook might charge your business $0.30 per click instead of $1.00 if your post has strong relevance. Good engagement tells the algorithm that people like your post, so that it will reduce your dependency on ad spend to stay visible.

    Choose the Right Option For Social Media Marketing

    There are different approaches you can use to make social media marketing work, like as hiring freelancers, a social media marketing agency, and the classic DIY (do-it-yourself). However, which option is suitable for your business? Let’s understand them in more detail:

    Freelancers Budget-Friendly but Limited

    Freelancers: Budget-Friendly but Limited

    Hiring a freelancer means you have a go-to person for specific tasks, who usually specializes in their niche – be it design, copywriting or strategy. They can be nimble, more flexible and budget-friendly, perfect for brands who know exactly what they need. They are self-suited and avoid a hectic payroll process, making the administrative tasks easier as well.

    Pros

    1. Flexibility: Freelancers are typically more adaptable to your needs or changes in the trends.
    2. Specialized skills: You can find freelancers who are experts in specific areas of social media.
    3. Saves Time: Hiring freelancers will delegate the responsibility of the entire social media management as per your needs, freeing up your time.

    Cons

    1. Lack of expertise: A freelancer might excel in visuals but might lack in other areas like captioning and strategy planning.
    2. Limited resources: Individual content creators might have only access to personal resources, unlike an agency who have access to a whole team of people’s expertise.

    Social Media Agency: A Full-Service Option

    Social media management agencies have the expertise and knowledge to create and implement effective strategies to build your brand online. With their full-service orchestra, you will get a complete team of specialists who collaborate to create your brand’s symphony. From graphic designers to paid ad specialists, they stay updated with the latest trends and best practices, working in harmony to reach the right audience at the right time with the right message.

    Pros

    1. Scalability: Agencies can scale tier services up and down based on their needs.
    2. Specialized Services: Agencies have departments in different areas like content creation, analytics, and advertising.
    3. Omnichannel Presence: With agency, all of your digital channels will work in sync, providing a unified approach.
    4. Objectivity: Agency can provide an objective perspective on your social media presence, identifying areas for growth and optimization.

    Cons

    1. Cost: Full-service agencies come at a premium price, depending on the scope and complexity of your project.
    2. Less Flexibility: Agencies might have rigid processes, making it challenging to adapt quickly to changes.
    Social Media Agency - A Full-Service Option
    Cost-Effective but Time-Consuming

    DIY Social Media: Cost-Effective but Time-Consuming

    The do-it-yourself approach is all about diving into the social media pool with your own hands. Most of the famous success stories in social media happen when the individual manages their social media on their own. If you are a new entrepreneur, think of doing it yourself, as it seems easy. However, it is an expert-level job to get leads from any social network. You need to be aware of the latest trends and tactics that can maximize the chances of success, but you will have to devote time to learn and master social media marketing, which increases the burden on your shoulders.

    Pros

    1. Cost-effective: With DIY, you don’t have to deal with any external hiring or management costs.
    2. Full control: You will have direct control over your management, with no waiting time for approval or revisions.
    3. Personal touch: If you are managing your social media, you can convey your personal touch with ease.

    Cons

    1. Time-consuming: Managing social media can be time-intensive, especially when you don’t have any prior experience.
    2. Learning curve: Social media management requires time and effort to keep you with changing trends and algorithms.
    3. Inconsistent: Lack of a dedicated team and plan will lead to inconsistency in your potential.
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    Comparing Costs – Which One is Right for You?

    Are you at a crossroads trying to decide between agency vs freelancer or DIY for your social media management? Well, the choice isn’t always clear-cut. Each option offers unique benefits and could be a perfect solution based on your project’s scope, budget, and your level of involvement.

    Parameter Freelancer Agency DIY
    Best for Startups and small businesses Large and established businesses New entrepreneurs
    Pros They can deliver excellent results due to the focused approach. And businesses can control your content, returns, timing, and more. They have the team and experts to take care of each social network. Agency bridges the expertise gap, which is necessary for excellent campaign performance. You can create content that connects with your audience and aligns with your business. You can stay focused and accountable for your results.
    Cons Freelancers can quit anytime, and it will be a drastic outcome if you have invested a good time training them. The cost can be expensive, but worth it because of the experience and expertise they bring to the table. After some point, social media marketing will become draining. It will keep you away from focusing on the core process of the business.
    Cost $500 – $1000 $1500-$5000 $100-200 per month (may be $1000-1500 for professional training

    Want to know how much you should budget for Social Media Management in 2025?

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    What Sets Icecube Digital Apart?

    Most businesses allocate around 5% – 25% of their total marketing budget towards social media marketing. However, with Icecube Digital, you have the flexibility to maximize the chances of reaching more customers online and earning more digital revenue without stressing your budget.

    With Icecube Digital, you have the flexibility to maximize the chances of reaching more customers online and earning more digital revenue without stressing your budget. We have helped over 250 businesses of all sorts, from small businesses to enterprises, to improve their visibility and drive engagement rates. We are a customer-centric marketing agency, and we work with you to create an optimal strategy that fits perfectly with your budget. Our tailored services provide the flexibility to choose an engagement model that suits your team, giving you the confidence that your investment is in good hands.

    We offer a wide range of services in our social media marketing services, and every service can be tailored to your needs. Our team is proficient in using AI and Gen AI tools to brainstorm new ideas that will bring life to your social media profile and boost engagement. Also, we have expertise in tools that automate this process and focus more on collaboration from both teams.

    Here’s a list of services that we offer in our social media marketing packages:

    • Market and competitor analysis
    • Audience research and persona development
    • Content creation and creative designing
    • Social media management
    • Profile optimization
    • Campaigns creation and management
    • Reputation management
    • Maintaining brand voice and consistency
    • Platform-specific, like LinkedIn and Instagram, strategy creation
    • Comprehensive analytics reporting with ROI metrics on paid campaigns

    Conclusion

    If you have a business, a service, or a product to sell, social media marketing isn’t a choice, but rather a necessary tool in your digital marketing toolkit. Social media is always evolving. From new advertising regulations to algorithm updates, every change creates a ripple effect on your business. It is just one reason why reviewing the social media management pricing is so important – it should align with your invested time, effort and resources. Otherwise, what’s the point? Rest assured, with the right strategy and the right team, social media marketing can be a powerful tool for your business.

    Knowing your social media management charges in 2025 can help you plan better and align your resources accordingly. As compared to freelancers and DIY options, going with a social media marketing agency is a suitable option for all types of businesses. With years of experience and catering to companies in different industries, they have a clear understanding of what will work best for your business.

    For instance, Icecube Digital’s social media marketers use a 50-30-20 strategy for a balanced approach that leads to better results. It means that 50% of the content on your social media profile should be informative and engaging, 30% should be curated based on industry insights, and 20% should be promotional.

    Whether you have just begun your journey or want to improve your results, we can help you achieve your goals. Connect with our experts today, and our social media management charges will be tailored to fit your budget.

    Hear What Our Clients Have to Say!

    When we set out to rebuild all six of our websites into a WordPress with WooCommerce framework, we knew we would need a business partner that would be with us for the long haul. Ice Cube Digital has been there for us and continues to work with us every step of the way. From designing our sites to launching them, the process has been smooth and trouble free. Ice Cube Digital has always been available anytime we had questions, and issues are always resolved in a timely manner. We are especially happy with the SEO work they have performed, and our maintenance agreement with them that allows us to keep on top of our businesses, instead of worrying about keeping on top of monthly site and plugin upgrades. If you are looking for a complete and cost effect business partner, Ice Cube Digital is your team!

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    Social Media Management Pricing FAQs

    How much does social media management cost?

    Typically, prices range from $1,000 to $10,000 per month, depending on the scope and complexity of the services you require.

    What is the average price for social media management?

    The average price for social media management is $19,000/month, and here’s the breakdown of it:

    • Content creation (around $8,000; depends on the cost taken by the expert per post)
    • Social media advertising ($6,000/month)
    • Platform management ($5,000/month)

    Why is social media management so expensive?

    Social media management is expensive because every task in it requires specialized software, content editing, visual creation, reporting and analytics, tracking, and project management. Besides, the expertise is the thing that drives the overall cost, and it is necessary to help the business excel and build is own identity.

    How do social media managers set their prices?

    Social media managers base their pricing on factors like the number of platforms managed, the amount of content required, and the overall goals of the campaign. Agencies also consider the level of expertise, engagement strategies, and the analytics/reporting necessary to track success. Pricing is customized to your needs.

    Will social media management help my business grow?

    Yes! Social media management is crucial for building brand awareness, engaging with your audience, and driving sales. By consistently posting high-quality content, interacting with followers, and using targeted ads, we help your business grow by reaching the right people and turning them into loyal customers.

    How much does a freelance social media manager charge?

    Freelance social media managers typically charge between $500 and $ 1,000 per month, depending on their experience, the complexity of your needs, and the platforms involved. Some charge hourly, typically ranging from $25 to $150 per hour. Freelancers often offer a more flexible approach but may not provide the comprehensive services an agency does.

    What do social media marketing agencies charge per month?

    Social media marketing agencies charge anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000+ per month, depending on the services included. This covers everything from strategy development to content creation, community engagement, and analytics.

    Why do agencies charge more than freelancers for social media management?

    Agencies generally charge more because they offer a team of experts with diverse skills in strategy, design, analytics, and paid ads. You also benefit from their experience and more robust tools. Unlike freelancers, agencies can scale efforts to meet larger business goals, making their services more comprehensive.

    Who offers the best social media management services for small businesses?

    Icecube Digital offers tailored social media management services perfect for small businesses. From persona development to content creation and reporting, we can easily scale as per your needs. Our goal is to make social media work for you, no matter your industry or budget.

    Will hiring a freelancer save money on social media management?

    Hiring a freelancer may seem like a cost-effective option, but you might miss out on the full-service support and strategic insight that agencies offer. Freelancers tend to focus on the basics, while agencies provide more comprehensive services, which can save you time and effort in the long run.

    How much should a small business pay for social media management?

    Small businesses should spend around 5% – 25% of their digital marketing budget on social media marketing.

    What is the cost of social media management for eCommerce brands?

    For eCommerce brands, social media management can cost between $2,000 and $10,0000 per month. The pricing reflects the need for frequent content updates, engagement, and paid ad campaigns to drive traffic and sales.

    Why do big brands spend more on social media management?

    Big brands invest more in social media management because they require comprehensive campaigns, custom content, and in-depth performance analytics. Additionally, they often manage multiple platforms and require ongoing engagement with a larger audience.

    Where can startups find affordable social media management?

    Startups looking for affordable social media management can partner with agencies like Icecube Digital that offer scalable solutions. We specialize in helping startups create a strong social media presence without breaking the bank. Our flexible packages ensure you get the most value for your investment as you grow.

    Who needs professional social media management services?

    Businesses of all sizes benefit from professional social media management. Whether you’re a small business, an eCommerce brand, or a large corporation, having a dedicated expert handle your social media strategy, content, and engagement can lead to better results, time savings, and stronger connections with your audience.

    What’s the difference between hourly and monthly social media management fees?

    Hourly fees are typically used for short-term, ad-hoc tasks like consulting or a specific project, usually ranging from $25 to $150 per hour. Monthly fees are for ongoing social media management, covering everything from strategy and content creation to engagement and analytics. Monthly pricing offers more comprehensive support and long-term results.

    How does social media management pricing compare to in-house hiring?

    Hiring an in-house social media manager can cost more in terms of salary, benefits, and training. With social media management agencies, you gain access to a team of specialists for a more cost-effective solution. Agencies offer scalability, flexibility, and strategic expertise that in-house hires might not provide.

    Will a social media package include content creation and ads?

    Yes! Most social media management packages include both content creation and ad management. We craft custom posts and ads to suit your brand’s voice and goals. At Icecube Digital, we ensure that all aspects of your social media strategy, from organic posts to paid ads, work together to boost your success.

    Where can I find budget-friendly social media management plans?

    The Internet is the best place to start looking for budget-friendly social media management plans. Look for agencies that offer social media marketing packages that provide affordable solutions for small businesses or startups.

    Why do some social media managers charge per post while others charge per month?

    Charging per post allows flexibility for businesses that need sporadic or one-off content. On the other hand, monthly charges often cover a more comprehensive approach, including strategy, content creation, engagement, and analytics.

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