Backlinko contributor Michael Ofei has published an article answering the question ‘SEO Pricing: How Much Does SEO Cost?’.

He says, “This is a complete guide to SEO pricing in 2026.

We surveyed over 300 SEO professionals with experience ranging from 1 to 10+ years.

Here are the highlights:

  • The average monthly cost for SEO is $1,000-$2,500
  • Hourly SEO services average $50-$100 per hour
  • Agencies charge approximately 30% more on average than freelancers
  • US-based SEO services cost 3-5x more than those from emerging markets

These numbers vary based on your business size, competition, and the provider’s experience.

I’ll explain this in detail, including how to think about your return on SEO costs.”

SEO Pricing: How Much Does SEO Cost?

Backlinko