How Much Does It Cost to Get on a Digital Billboard in the US?

Digital billboards have become a popular medium for advertising across the United States, offering high visibility and dynamic content that captures the attention of passersby. If you’re considering using a digital billboard to promote your business, understanding the costs involved is crucial. In this article, we break down the pricing structure, factors that influence cost, and what you can expect to pay for digital billboard advertising in the US.

What Are Digital Billboards?

Digital billboards use LED technology to display advertisements in real-time. Unlike traditional billboards, digital billboards can rotate multiple ads throughout the day and offer the flexibility to update content instantly. This makes them a highly effective tool for businesses looking to target specific audiences with timely, engaging messages.

Average Cost of Digital Billboard Advertising

The cost of getting on a digital billboard in the US varies widely depending on several factors, such as location, size of the billboard, traffic volume, and the duration of the ad campaign. Here’s a general breakdown of the costs involved:

Crypto Digital Billboard Service – a game-changer in marketing

1. Location

Location is the most significant factor affecting the price of digital billboard advertising. Billboards in high-traffic, prime locations, such as major highways, city centers, and popular tourist areas, typically cost more due to the larger audience they reach. On the other hand, billboards in rural or less populated areas are more affordable.

• High-Traffic Areas: Digital billboards in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago can range from $50,000 to $150,000 per month.
• Mid-Tier Locations: In cities with moderate traffic or less central areas, prices usually range from $25,000 to $50,000 per month.
• Low-Traffic Areas: In more rural or less visible locations, the cost could drop to between $5,000 to $15,000 per month.

2. Ad Slot and Frequency

The amount of time your ad is displayed on the digital billboard also affects the cost. Some billboards allow advertisers to purchase ad slots that rotate with others, meaning your ad might be displayed for a short period during each rotation. Other billboards offer exclusive ad space where your ad is the only one displayed.

• Rotating Ads: The cost of rotating ads tends to be more affordable because they are part of a rotation schedule that includes other advertisers. Prices for these ads typically range from $500 to $2,000 per week, depending on location and traffic.
• Exclusive Ads: For a more premium, exclusive display where your ad runs continuously or at prime times, prices range from $5,000 to $50,000 per month, depending on the location and the billboard’s audience reach.

3. Duration of the Campaign

The length of your ad campaign also plays a role in pricing. Advertisers who commit to longer campaigns may be able to negotiate discounted rates. For instance, booking a 3-month campaign could offer a more favorable price than a single month.

• Short-Term Campaigns (1-2 weeks): Costs may range from $1,500 to $15,000, depending on the location and ad type.
• Long-Term Campaigns (3-12 months): Long-term commitments can reduce the cost per month, with some advertisers paying as little as $2,000 to $10,000 per month.

4. Size and Placement of the Billboard

Larger billboards, such as those that are on high-rise buildings or positioned on highways, tend to cost more. Placement on specific streets or iconic locations with high foot or vehicle traffic will also increase the cost. Digital billboards on top of skyscrapers or in prime locations like Times Square in New York City will come with a premium price tag.

• Smaller Billboards: Smaller digital billboards located in suburban or less congested areas can cost between $1,000 and $5,000 per month.
• Large Billboards: Large digital billboards in major cities or high-visibility areas can cost $20,000 to $100,000 or more per month, depending on the market and ad placement.

Additional Costs to Consider

Besides the monthly or weekly rental fee for digital billboard space, there are other costs to consider, such as:

1. Creative and Design Costs

If you don’t have a ready-to-go ad design, you may need to hire a professional to create an engaging and visually appealing ad. The cost for designing a digital ad can range from $500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity and the designer’s experience.

2. Production and Setup Fees

In some cases, there may be additional costs to upload or set up your ad on the digital billboard. This could range from $50 to $500, depending on the billboard operator and how the ad is delivered.

3. Seasonal or Prime-Time Pricing

Digital billboards in high-demand areas or during peak advertising seasons (such as holidays or special events) tend to cost more. Advertising during high-traffic periods can add a premium to your campaign’s overall cost.

Key Factors That Affect Digital Billboard Pricing

To better understand what you’ll pay, it’s important to consider the following factors:

• Location and Foot Traffic: Prime urban locations with high foot traffic, such as busy city streets or highways, will significantly increase the cost of advertising.
• Size and Visibility: The larger and more visible the billboard, the higher the price.
• Ad Duration and Frequency: Longer campaigns or exclusive slots will generally cost more than shorter, shared slots.
• Time of Year: Certain times of the year, like the holiday season, may see a spike in demand and consequently higher prices.
• Target Audience: Digital billboards that are strategically placed to target specific demographics or businesses (such as retail, real estate, or entertainment) can command a premium.

How to Maximize the ROI of Digital Billboard Advertising

While digital billboards can be a significant investment, there are ways to maximize your return on investment (ROI). Consider these tips:

• Target Your Audience: Make sure your digital billboard ad is placed in a location where your target audience is likely to be. Research foot traffic patterns and location demographics.
• Use High-Impact Design: Ensure your digital billboard ad is visually striking and concise, with a clear call to action.
• Leverage Technology: Consider using dynamic advertising that changes based on weather, time of day, or traffic patterns. Some digital billboards can display content relevant to the current context, enhancing engagement.

Conclusion

The cost of getting on a digital billboard in the US varies widely based on location, ad duration, and the size of the display. In general, prices range from $15,000 to $100,000 per month, depending on your campaign’s specifics. By understanding the key factors that influence pricing and considering additional costs like creative design and seasonal pricing, you can better plan and budget for your digital billboard advertising. Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation, digital billboards offer an opportunity for high-impact visibility and measurable results.

Drive Traffic to Your Crypto Project with Our Digital Billboards (DOOH Advertising) Solutions. Find out more about our marketing service here.