If you’re pursuing a career in digital marketing, you’ll want to know what kind of salary you can earn. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate digital marketing salary guide.
Here, you’ll find all the latest digital marketing salary data based on years of experience, geographical location, and a range of job titles within the digital marketing field.
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- Digital marketing salary overview
- Digital marketing salary by experience
- Digital marketing salary by location
- Digital marketing salary for different job titles
- Key takeaways and further reading
- FAQ about the digital marketing salary
So, what kind of salary can you expect if you work in digital marketing? Let’s take a look.
1. The digital marketing salary overview
Salaries for digital marketing roles vary greatly depending on seniority, company size, industry, geographic location, and other factors.
However, if you look at average digital marketing salaries that take all these factors into account, you can still expect to earn a decent paycheck, no matter what level you’re at. Here is the experts’ take on the average digital marketing salary in the United States.
Digital marketing salary in the U.S.
- Indeed: $$63,648 USD base salary for digital marketers
- ZipRecruiter: $77,381 USD base salary for digital marketers
- Talent.com: $66,073 USD base salary for digital marketers
These numbers are for the United States as a whole. But the cost of living and concentration of talent in particular geographies also impact digital marketing salaries.
2. Digital marketing salary by experience
Digital marketers are in high demand, and their wages often reflect this. As with any job, several factors influence the amount you can expect to earn, regardless of how much experience you have. Company size, geographic location, and industry all determine your total take.
That said, we’ve compiled salary data for several roles, from entry-level to director, that you can use as benchmarks for what to expect.
Entry-level digital marketing salary
Digital marketing newbies are best qualified for roles like digital marketing specialists or digital marketing analysts. Here’s what the experts say these professionals will earn per year:
- Payscale: $54,563 USD base salary for a digital marketing specialist
- Zippia: $60,359 USD base salary for a digital marketing specialist
- CareerExplorer: $39,281 USD base salary for a digital marketing specialist
Entry-level digital marketing salary range based on all data: $39,281 to $60,359
Mid-level digital marketing salary
Once you have a few years of experience under your belt, you’ll be better positioned for mid-level marketing positions like a digital marketing manager. Here’s what you can expect to earn on average:
- Talent.com: $66,073 USD base salary for mid-level digital marketers
- Salary.com: $123,157 USD base salary for a digital marketing manager
- Glassdoor: $92,000 USD base salary for a digital marketing manager
- Payscale: $73,611 USD base salary for a digital marketing manager
Range: $66,073 to $123,157
Related reading: What are the best entry-level digital marketing jobs?
Senior-level digital marketing salary
If you’ve been in the field for several years but don’t yet qualify for director status, you’ll have the opportunity to snag a senior-level position. Depending on the company, a senior-level post may or may not include the word “senior” in the title, but your salary should reflect it!
- Glassdoor: $128,831 USD base salary for a senior digital marketing manager
- ZipRecruiter: $113,657 USD base salary for a senior digital marketing manager
- Zippia: $105,167 USD base salary for a senior digital marketing manager
Range: $113,657 to $128,831
Director of digital marketing salary
Congratulations! If you’ve worked steadily in the field of digital marketing for several years, you’ll be eligible to snag one of the top jobs in digital marketing: a director. Here’s what you can expect in terms of compensation:
- Glassdoor: $181,461 USD base salary for a director of digital marketing
- Salary.com: $187,132 USD base salary for a director of digital marketing
- ZipRecruiter: $123,711 USD base salary for a director of digital marketing
- Payscale: $110,626 USD base salary for a director of digital marketing
Range: $110,626 to $181,461
VP of digital marketing salary
If you’re in the running for VP of digital marketing roles, you’ve reached the acme of your career. Salaries for this C-Suite position are in the mid-to-top six figures, but they’re commensurate with your level of responsibility:
- Glassdoor: $260,277 USD base salary for a VP of digital marketing role
- ZipRecruiter: $193,637 USD base salary for a VP of digital marketing role
Want to make that jump to senior-level salary as quickly as possible? In this video, Careerfoundry Chief Marketing Officer Ed Wood uncovers the secrets to jumping from junior to senior in rapid time.
3. Digital marketing salary by location
Let’s look at a few different regions in the U.S. to see how location influences compensation. Salaries are taken from Glassdoor, Built in LA, Payscale, and Indeed.
Digital marketing salaries in Los Angeles, California
- Digital marketer: $97,631
- Digital marketing specialist: $69,728
- Digital marketing manager: $97,624
- Director of digital marketing: $163,629
Digital marketing salaries in New York City, New York
- Digital marketer: $101,867
- Digital marketing specialist: $71,712
- Digital marketing manager: $101,853
- Director of digital marketing: $209,467
Digital marketing salaries in Austin, Texas
- Digital marketer: $67,244
- Digital marketing specialist: $61,629
- Digital marketing manager: $92,881
- Director of digital marketing: $190,737
Though the numbers do vary, if you’re looking for a career in digital marketing, make sure that you do your research before discussing salaries. This way, you’ll be well-equipped to ask for compensation that’s commensurate with your experience and geographic location.
Perhaps you’re not limiting your job search to the United States. And why should you? Digital marketers are highly sought after all over the world. Here’s what you can expect to make in several different countries worldwide:
- United Kingdom (digital marketer): £28,027
- Singapore (digital marketer): $51,154 SGD
- Hong Kong (digital marketer): HK$404,744
- France (digital marketing manager): €51,750
- Russia (digital marketing manager): 1,755,204₽
- South Africa: R234,020
- Mexico: MX $1,00,000
4. Digital marketing salary for different job titles
Digital marketers utilize a range of marketing channels as part of their daily activities. But what if you’d like to specialize in one? Whether you work for an agency or have an in-house position, being highly skilled in one particular medium can be very fulfilling and lucrative. Here’s what channel-specific roles offer in terms of a salary:
- Social media manager: $57,126 (see our full social media manager salary guide)
- Content marketing manager: $87,037
- Email marketing manager: $97,538
- Paid search manager: $98,896
- SEO manager: $99,276
As with digital marketing salaries, individual compensation depends on many factors. But these numbers will at least give you an idea of what to expect if you decide to pursue a career in a specialized digital marketing category.
5. Key takeaways and further reading
If you’re looking for an in-demand job that offers a highly liveable range of salaries, digital marketing is a terrific career path. It’s an ever-changing role that requires both an analytical and creative mindset.
Interested in getting into digital marketing? Why not try out our free, 5-day short course. This course will cover the basics of digital marketing, so you can see if it’s the right field for you. Alternatively, speak directly with a digital marketing program advisor.
For more digital marketing career insights and salary guides, check out the following:
- What does a digital marketing manager actually do?
- What is the average digital marketing analyst salary?
- What is the average social media specialist salary?
6. FAQ about the digital marketing salary
1. How much can I make as a digital marketer?
The salary range for digital marketers can vary depending on factors such as experience, skill set, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start around $40,000 to $50,000 annually, while more experienced professionals or those in managerial roles can earn well into six figures.
Additionally, freelancers and consultants may charge hourly rates or project-based fees. It’s important to note that digital marketing encompasses various roles, such as SEO specialist, social media manager, content marketer, and more, each with its own salary potential.
2. Is digital marketing high paying?
Digital marketing can potentially be a high-paying field, especially as the demand for digital expertise grows. Companies recognize the value of effective online marketing strategies, and they are willing to invest in skilled professionals who can drive results.
However, it’s important to remember that salary levels can vary based on factors like experience, job title, industry, and location. While some digital marketers may earn lucrative salaries, it’s crucial to continuously improve your skills, gain experience, and stay updated with industry trends to maximize earning potential.
3. Is digital marketing a good career?
Yes, digital marketing can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice for many individuals. The field offers a range of opportunities to work in diverse industries, employ creative and analytical skills, and contribute to business growth. With the increasing importance of digital channels in today’s business landscape, the demand for skilled digital marketers continues to rise.
Additionally, digital marketing roles often provide flexibility regarding remote work or freelance opportunities. However, it’s important to stay adaptable and continually upskill to keep pace with the evolving digital marketing landscape.
4. What degree do you need for digital marketing?
There isn’t a specific degree requirement for digital marketing, as the field is more focused on skills and experience rather than formal education. However, having a bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, business, or a related field can be beneficial in terms of foundational knowledge. Many institutions also offer specialized digital marketing programs, bootcamps, or certifications that can enhance your skills and improve your career prospects.
Ultimately, employers often value practical experience, a strong portfolio, and a solid understanding of digital marketing strategies and tools. Continuous learning and staying up-to-date with industry trends are key in this dynamic field.