"What will this cost?" is the first question most business owners ask, and the honest answer is that it depends on what you need. This guide explains how pricing works, what changes it, and how to compare quotes fairly.
The two parts of your budget#
Every digital marketing budget has two separate parts:
- The agency or freelancer fee for strategy, setup, content, campaign management and reporting.
- Media or ad spend, paid to platforms such as Google and Meta. This is what actually buys clicks and impressions.
When you compare quotes, make sure you compare the same thing. A low fee that includes ad spend may leave very little money for the ads themselves.
Indicative monthly ranges#
The ranges below are typical of what businesses in the Dehradun market are quoted for a single service. They are a starting point for budgeting, not a price list; your quote depends on scope.
| Service | Typical monthly fee | What drives the price |
|---|---|---|
| Local SEO and Google Business Profile | ₹15,000 – ₹45,000 | Number of locations, content and link building |
| Social media management | ₹12,000 – ₹40,000 | Posts per month, reels and video production |
| Google Ads management | ₹10,000 – ₹35,000 | Ad spend, number of campaigns, landing pages |
| Meta (Facebook and Instagram) Ads | ₹10,000 – ₹35,000 | Creative volume, audiences, testing |
What changes the price#
Scope and number of channels#
Each additional channel adds setup, content and reporting work. Two channels managed properly usually outperform five managed thinly.
Content volume#
Video and reels take far more time than static posts. A plan with eight reels a month will cost more than one with twelve image posts.
Tracking and reporting#
Proper conversion tracking, call tracking and a live dashboard take time to set up, but they are what let you see which rupee brought which enquiry.
How to compare agency quotes#
- Ask for a written list of monthly deliverables.
- Confirm that the ad accounts, website and analytics are in your name.
- Ask how results are reported and how often you will meet.
- Check the notice period and what you keep if you leave.
The right question is not "what is the cheapest option?" but "what will it cost to get one new customer?"
Our recommendation#
Start with the channel closest to buying intent, which for most local businesses is Google Search and Google Business Profile. Measure cost per enquiry for 60 to 90 days, then add channels that can beat it.
