Local SEO Pricing Guide (2025): What a Local SEO Company Near Me Should Cost

Introduction

Local SEO pricing varies by market and scope. Hourly work suits audits and small fixes, projects work for migrations or site builds, and retainers are common for ongoing local optimization and content.

1. Pricing models: hourly, project, retainer

Expect a small-business local SEO retainer to start around $500–$1,500/month in many markets for basic GBP management, citation building, and content. More competitive markets or larger scopes can cost more.

2. Typical price ranges and what they include

Compare proposals by deliverables and expected outcomes, not just price. Ask for sample reporting, estimated timelines, and case studies showing measurable results.

3. How to compare proposals

Watch for red flags like guarantees of #1 rankings or vague deliverables. The best vendors tie work to KPIs like map-pack visibility, organic traffic, and leads rather than vanity metrics alone.

4. Red flags and value metrics

Conclusion: Use this guide to set realistic budget expectations and choose a local SEO partner that provides transparent deliverables and measurable business outcomes.