The Price of a Logo
How much is a logo?
I get this question all the time. My answer is almost always the same. I don’t do just a logo; I work with clients to create their brand!
What is the difference? A brand is your business on so many levels that often begins with the visual form. It also includes wording and research such as what do you stand for or even who is your target market? From your business card to your website, to social media and brick and mortar the way you speak to customers through your brand story and marketing is essential. You want those customers on repeat and the way you do that is through consistency and trust.
Now down to the nitty gritty, how much is this going to cost me? With prices from $25 to $10,000 how do you even know what you are getting. Hopefully, this little chat will help you understand that pricing is primarily based on two major things. Experience level of designer and the deliverables you will obtain once the work is complete.
What to Expect from Where
Brand design costs can vary widely to say the least. Understanding this range is key to budgeting effectively for exactly what you need.
Generally, you might see prices falling into these categories:
Premade Logos: If you’re on a tighter budget or need something quick, consider exploring online marketplaces that offer premade logos. These logos can range from $50 to $500, depending on the quality, uniqueness and deliverables. This is a great way to get a professional-looking design without breaking the bank. Look at Etsy to see what you can find or hire an art student in their first few years of college trying to gain experience. Try to stay away from logos made with Canva. Logos created in Canva can have sizing issues because graphics don’t translate well.
Online Design: There are many online outlets for graphic design, brand design and more. Sometimes these websites also offer both premade logos and working directly with a person. Services such as Fiverr have a person who will design a few variations of logo for a cheaper price, but buyer beware. You usually only obtain a .jpeg of the logo and since they are done relatively quickly you may not always get what you want. Pricing here can start at $50 and exceed into the $1,000 dollar mark.
Established Designers/Freelancers: If you’re working with an experienced designer, you might expect to pay anywhere from $95 to $150 per hour, depending on their experience and expertise. Many may offer brand packages ranging from $2,500 to $7,500 depending on deliverables and skill. There are many pluses to working one on one with a designer. This experience here is key. You are able to work with one person who will understand your business fully and truly design a logo that reflects who you are. While learning along the way, you will also obtain all the useful files needed to maintain your marketing yourself. That is worth it’s weight in gold.
Design Agencies: Agencies tend to charge more due to their team approach and the additional resources they offer. For a complete branding project, prices can range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more! This usually includes extensive research, multiple design concepts, and a full suite of brand assets. I always say large businesses who need all the things from print work, digital work, radio and tv ads, billboards, promotional items and more should hire an agency. They are fantastic at executing all the thing at once in a timely manner.
Why the Variability in Pricing?
Now that we’ve got some numbers down, let’s talk about why there’s such a wide range in pricing.
Experience and Skill Level: Just like any profession, experience matters! A seasoned designer with a proven track record can command higher fees because they bring expertise that often leads to better results.
Project Complexity: The scope of your project greatly affects cost. A simple logo design will obviously cost less than a full brand strategy that includes market research, typography selection, color palette creation, and social media assets.
Geographic Location: Designers based in larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living may charge more than those in smaller towns. However, remote work has made it easier to find talented designers from all over the globe, often at competitive rates.
Brand Strategy vs. Design Only: Some designers offer comprehensive branding services that include strategic elements—understanding your target audience, market positioning, and creating a brand narrative. This depth of service will naturally cost more than simply designing a logo.
Revisions and Iterations: The number of revisions included in your package can impact pricing. If you’re likely to need multiple changes, make sure to discuss this upfront, as additional revisions can add to the final bill.
What’s Included in the Price?
When you’re considering hiring a brand designer, it’s essential to know what you’re getting for your investment. Here are some key components that might be included:
Brand Strategy: Analyzing your target market, competitors, and positioning.
Logo Design: Creating a unique logo that reflects your brand identity.
Color Palette and Typography: Selecting a cohesive color scheme and font styles that resonate with your brand’s voice.
Brand Guidelines: Documentation on how to use your brand elements consistently across all platforms.
Additional Assets: Business cards, social media templates, packaging, and more.
Alternatives to Traditional Design Services
If the prices of custom branding feel overwhelming, don’t worry! Here are a few alternative solutions to consider:
Online Logo Makers: Websites like Canva and Looka offer user-friendly tools that let you design your logo at a fraction of the cost. These platforms often have templates to help you get started.
Freemium Design Tools: Tools like Hatchful or LogoMakr let you create basic logos for free, with the option to purchase high-res files.
Premade Logos: As mentioned earlier, sites like Creative Market or Etsy have designers selling unique premade logos. This can be a fantastic option if you find something that aligns with your vision!
Final Thoughts
Investing in brand design is an important step for any business, whether you’re just starting out or looking to refresh your existing identity. While the costs can vary, remember that a well-designed brand can pay off in the long run through increased recognition, customer loyalty, and ultimately and sales.
If you’re ready to take the plunge, don’t hesitate to reach out to a designer whose style you love. Discuss your vision, get quotes, and choose someone who resonates with your brand’s mission and values. And if you’re on a budget, explore those alternative options—there’s something out there for everyone!
Happy branding!
