How Much Do Billboards Cost?

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Billboards tower all around us, and they seem so impressive and powerful. Such power and exclusivity must mean they’re completely out of budget, right?

Nope!Billboards and other outdoor ads are surprisingly affordable and not reserved for luxury brands and megacorporations.

Anyone can run billboards and other outdoor ads without breaking the piggy bank (seriously, anyone). Though many are not high-priced, some can definitely leave that piggy bank demolished and empty.

Many factors go into the price of out-of-home (OOH) advertising, so let’s break it down plainly by answering all the right questions.

1

What?

The OOH format and its size make up a big chunk of the final price. Bigger billboards cost more than smaller ones, but that’s not the only factor. You’ll decide between formats like:

Static billboards

Traditional; often a lower price point, but larger sizes cost more.

Digital billboards

Rotating ads that cost a little more, as they’re high-tech, brighter, and more eye-catching.

Mobile billboards

LED trucks; often lower cost, depending on size and location.

Wallscapes

Wall ads; often lower cost, depending on size and location.

Whichever OOH medium you choose, the results can be extraordinary, especially in high-visibility areas.

2

Where?

Location is everything, and it largely determines the cost of running a billboard: urban, suburban, or rural areas, and highways versus local roadways.

Urban areas and highways see massive daily viewership—hundreds of thousands of travelers every day—so they come with a higher price tag for billboards. Suburban and rural locations see fewer daily viewers and are more affordable.

Keep this concept in mind, as it applies to many aspects of advertising: more potential viewers equals higher prices.
3

When?

Consider your campaign’s goals and how long it will run. Short-term billboards cost less than long-term ones, so factor that into your game plan.

Timing matters on a seasonal scale, too. Demand fluctuates, and billboards run during holiday months cost more than those in less eventful seasons, as brands fight to maximize visibility. Knowing this ensures you won’t be surprised by costs.

4

Why (Haven’t You Reserved Your Billboard Yet?)

Billboards seem expensive and reserved for the ultra-rich, but that’s simply not the case. Of course, huge 3D digital screens in New York City, London, Tokyo, and Seoul cost a fortune, but most campaigns don’t need that kind of power.

Basic static and digital billboards near highways or in medium to large cities will do the trick for most campaigns. They see tons of travelers daily, and over a long-term campaign, your ad becomes one with its environment and easily recognized.

Take the Leap

You won’t regret it. Find a billboard that fits your budget and goals and get your brand seen.

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