Rates for Google Ads Virtual Assistant: Freelancers vs. Agencies

In today’s competitive digital landscape, businesses large and small recognize the power of Google Ads to attract qualified leads, increase website traffic, and drive conversions. However, creating and managing effective campaigns takes skill, time, and strategic expertise. This is where a Google Ads Virtual Assistant (VA) comes in—a remote professional specializing in managing your paid ads to maximize ROI.

When outsourcing this service, you’ll find two primary options: hiring a freelancer or working with a digital marketing agency. One of the most important considerations in choosing between the two is cost. So, what exactly are the rates for Google Ads Virtual Assistants, and how do they differ between freelancers and agencies?

This guide breaks down pricing structures, service inclusions, and the advantages and disadvantages of each to help you make an informed decision.

Hourly Rate Breakdown for Google Ads VAs: Freelancers vs. Agencies

Hourly rates are a common pricing model, especially for businesses that need occasional support or are testing the waters before committing to a larger contract. The rates for Google Ads services on an hourly basis vary significantly between freelancers and agencies due to differences in expertise, overhead, and deliverables.

Freelancers

Freelancers are often more flexible in terms of pricing. Entry-level Google Ads VAs might charge $15–$25 per hour, especially if they are based in regions with a lower cost of living or are newer to the industry. More experienced freelancers, particularly those with Google Ads certifications and proven case studies, tend to charge $30–$50 per hour. Specialists in complex ad types—such as Performance Max or Shopping campaigns—can command up to $75+ per hour.

Because freelancers typically work independently, their overhead costs are lower, allowing them to offer competitive pricing. However, the quality of work may vary, so reviewing portfolios and testimonials is essential.

Agencies

Agencies usually have set hourly rates ranging from $75 to $200 or more, depending on the agency’s reputation, team size, and services offered. Agencies often employ a team of experts—each focused on different areas such as keyword research, copywriting, bidding strategies, and analytics. This team-based approach means you’re not just paying for one VA but for a collective skill set.

While agency rates are higher, they also bring consistency, reliability, and access to advanced tools that freelancers may not use.

Project-Based Google Ads Pricing: What to Expect from Freelancers vs. Agencies

If you have a specific, one-time task—like setting up a Google Ads campaign or auditing an existing one—project-based pricing may be more appropriate.

Freelancers

Freelancers typically charge $100 to $1,000+ per project depending on complexity. For instance:

• A basic campaign setup (including keyword research, writing 2–3 ad variations, and basic targeting) might cost $150–$300.

• A complete multi-campaign setup (with A/B testing, advanced keyword segmentation, and conversion tracking setup) can cost $500–$1,000+.

Freelancers often provide personalized packages, which is beneficial if your campaign needs are specific or niche. Because they’re working solo, you’re more likely to receive individualized attention and creative solutions.

Agencies

Agencies generally offer less flexibility in project pricing, but they tend to include more comprehensive services. Expect to pay $500 to $5,000 per project, depending on the scope. For example:

• A full campaign launch with competitor research, ad copywriting, custom landing page design, and integrated analytics might be quoted at $2,000–$3,500.

• A detailed campaign audit, complete with a strategy document and competitor benchmarking, may range from $1,000 to $2,000.

While more expensive, agencies are ideal for businesses that want a “done-for-you” solution with minimal supervision required.

Monthly Retainer Rates for Google Ads: Freelancers vs. Agencies

For businesses looking for long-term support and ongoing optimization, a monthly retainer is the preferred pricing structure. It ensures your Google Ads campaigns receive continuous monitoring, testing, and improvements—crucial for sustained success.

Freelancers

Monthly retainers with freelancers usually range from $300 to $2,000 per month, depending on the workload and the VA’s experience. For example:

• A basic plan might include weekly optimizations, bid adjustments, and monthly reporting for $300–$700/month.

• A premium plan with custom landing page suggestions, competitor monitoring, and conversion rate analysis may cost $1,000–$2,000/month.

Freelancers are often more willing to tailor their monthly services based on your budget. This is especially advantageous for small business owners or startups with limited resources.

Agencies

Agencies usually start their monthly retainers at $1,000 and can go upwards of $10,000/month. The most common pricing structure is a flat monthly fee or a percentage of your ad spend (commonly 10–20%). These retainers often include:

• Campaign strategy and management

• Copywriting and creative

• A/B testing and optimization

• Analytics and performance dashboards

• Monthly or weekly meetings

Agencies are better suited for businesses with higher ad spend or more aggressive growth goals. They also tend to handle large, multi-channel campaigns (e.g., Google Ads + YouTube Ads + Display Network).

Pros and Cons of Hiring Freelancers vs. Agencies for Google Ads Services

Choosing between a freelancer and an agency depends on your business size, budget, and goals. Here’s a comparative overview:

Pros of Hiring Freelancers

• Lower and more flexible pricing options

• Personalized, one-on-one service and direct communication

• Faster turnaround times and quicker revisions

• Specialized expertise in niche industries or ad types

• Easier to negotiate project scope and deliverables

Cons of Hiring Freelancers

• Limited capacity for managing large or multiple campaigns

• Potential inconsistency in quality and communication

• No backup support if the freelancer is unavailable

• May lack access to premium tools and reporting software

• Less formal structure and project management

Pros of Hiring Agencies

• Access to a team of experts across different ad disciplines

• Structured project management systems and reporting

• Scalable solutions for growing or complex ad campaigns

• Use of advanced analytics and optimization tools

• Reliable support and consistent service delivery

Cons of Hiring Agencies

• Higher costs and less flexible pricing

• Less direct communication (usually via account managers)

• May require longer contracts or minimum ad spend

• More rigid service packages with limited customization

• Slower response time compared to freelancers

Conclusion

When considering the rates for Google Ads Virtual Assistants, the decision between hiring a freelancer or an agency ultimately comes down to your goals, budget, and preferred working style. Freelancers offer affordability, agility, and personalization, while agencies bring structured processes, scalability, and cross-functional expertise.

At SmartVA, we aim to bridge the gap by offering the flexibility of a freelancer with the reliability of an agency. Our virtual assistants are trained across multiple domains—including Google Ads, web development, SEO, graphic design, administrative support, content writing, video editing, and much more.

With SmartVA, you get cost-effective, high-quality assistance tailored to your specific business needs—no matter the size or scope of your projects. Let us help you focus on what you do best while we handle the rest. Book a call now!

Frequently Related Questions:

Why do Google Ads rates vary so much between freelancers and agencies?

The difference in rates for Google Ads stems from operational models. Freelancers work independently and can afford to charge less. Agencies have overhead costs like employee salaries, software subscriptions, and marketing—contributing to higher pricing. Additionally, agencies often provide a broader range of services and analytics tools that justify their rates.

Can I negotiate rates for Google Ads Services?

Yes. With freelancers, rates are often more negotiable, especially if you're committing to a long-term project or bundling services. Agencies may have less flexibility in their pricing due to fixed costs, but some are open to custom packages or adjusting deliverables to meet your budget.

Which is more cost-effective for startups: a Google Ads freelancer or an agency?

For startups, hiring a Google Ads freelancer is typically more cost-effective. Freelancers offer lower rates, flexible hours, and tailored packages that align with smaller budgets. As your business grows, transitioning to an agency for more comprehensive services may be the logical next step.

Ready to find the perfect Google Ads VA for your business?
Contact SmartVA today and discover how our flexible, results-driven virtual assistant services can help you save time, lower costs, and improve your marketing ROI.