How Much Does It Cost to Outsource Social Media Management?

“How much does it cost to outsource social media?” The answer depends less on the agency than on what exactly you outsource. Three posts a month on one channel is very different from a LinkedIn strategy in four languages with original design, video and monthly reporting. Once you know the price factors, you compare proposals on content rather than on the total.

In this article we explain what drives social media management cost, what a good package includes and how to compare agencies fairly.

Factors that drive the price

• Number of channels: LinkedIn only, or also Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube? Each channel has its own format and rhythm.
• Frequency: How many posts, stories and videos per week or month?
• Languages: One language or several? For companies selling across Europe, multilingual content makes a real difference.
• Type of content: Reusing existing visuals, or creating new designs, infographics, photography and video?
• Strategy and planning: Do you get a content strategy and calendar, or execution only?
• Community management: Does the agency respond to comments and messages?
• Advertising: Are paid campaigns set up and managed? Media spend is usually separate.
• Reporting: A short monthly update or an analysis with recommendations?

What a good package includes

• A content strategy linked to your business goals and audience
• A monthly content calendar you approve in advance
• Copy and design in your brand identity, in the languages you need
• Scheduling and publishing on the agreed channels
• One dedicated point of contact
• Monthly reporting: what worked, what didn’t and what changes next month

Outsourcing to an international team

Edda Creative invoices from Türkiye. For business clients in the Netherlands and the EU, VAT is reverse-charged: no VAT appears on the invoice and you account for it in your own return. For most VAT-registered businesses this is neutral overall; exempt sectors may be affected differently. This is not tax advice, so check with your accountant. Read more on Social Media Management & Marketing.

One example: for an Amsterdam-based automotive software company we handle the complete social media management in four languages, including content around European trade fairs.

How to compare agencies

• Compare on the same scope: channels, frequency, languages and type of content.
• Ask who creates the content: a dedicated team or changing freelancers?
• Ask for examples from your sector and how reporting works.
• Check who owns the accounts and the content produced.
• Check the notice period and what you keep if you stop.

More questions to ask are in Outsourcing Social Media: Questions to Ask When Choosing the Right Team.

Frequently asked questions about social media management cost

What does social media management cost per month?

It depends on the number of channels, frequency, languages and type of content, so compare proposals on the same scope rather than on the total.

Is the advertising budget included?

Usually not. Media spend on LinkedIn, Meta or Google is paid separately; the agency charges for setup and management.

Can I outsource LinkedIn only?

Yes. Many B2B companies start with LinkedIn and expand to other channels later.

How does VAT work if I outsource to Edda Creative?

We invoice from Türkiye, so VAT is reverse-charged for business clients in the Netherlands and the EU. Check the treatment with your accountant.

Curious what it would cost for your company? See social media management or request a proposal.