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Entry SEO Pay
Posted by on August 27, 2025 at 8:10 pmRange was 45-60k for entry position.
I want to aim for 55+; however, is that reasonable for entry level?
Also, if they start at 50k, whats the estimate for a raise next year?
Would love insight and how to negotiate.
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1 Reply
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entry position range probably correct. 55+ you would have to be actually good at it showing actual previous work and understanding of technical and non-technical sides of SEO.
SEO is going through transition to AI SEO (marketing bullshit) – so lots of people are lost at what to do with it. I dont know how fair the market can be to newbies.
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The better you get at it the more valuable you become.
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Aiming for $55k+ is reasonable for an entry-level position within the $45-60k range, as it aligns with the higher end of the pay scale for roles like specialist, strategist, or analyst, which typically fall between $50-70k at agencies. SEO manager roles, by contrast, often command $85-120k.
For a starting salary of $50k, a raise next year would likely be around 3-5%, or $1,500-$2,500, based on standard agency practices, assuming good performance. However, raises can vary depending on the agency’s budget, your contributions, and market conditions.
Negotiation Tips:
• Research: Use platforms like Glassdoor or posts on X to confirm salary ranges for similar roles in your area.
• Highlight Value: Emphasize your skills, certifications, or unique contributions (e.g., SEO tools proficiency or data analysis) during negotiations.
• Be Flexible: If they can’t meet $55k, ask for non-salary benefits like extra vacation days, remote work options, or professional development stipends.
• Get It in Writing: Ensure any promises about future raises or bonuses are documented.Career Advice: Agencies are great for gaining broad experience quickly, but long-term growth can be limited. After 2-3 years, consider transitioning to an in-house SEO role at a larger company (e.g., $50M+ revenue or Fortune 1000). Agency roles often involve wearing multiple hats, which can make your experience seem less specialized to bigger firms, who may also question tenure due to agencies’ typical 2-year retention rates. To prepare, work on personal SEO projects to showcase specialized skills and build a portfolio that appeals to larger companies for better pay and career growth.
This response assumes you’re in an SEO-related agency role. If you have more details about your industry or location, I can refine the advice further. -
It depends on where you’re located, as well.
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Currency? Location?
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