Marketing Salaries for 2025: How Much Does a Digital Marketer Make?

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Digital marketing offers a diverse range of roles and responsibilities that play a crucial role in the success of modern businesses. From driving online visibility to engaging target audiences and maximizing conversions, digital marketers employ various strategies and techniques to achieve marketing objectives. As such, there is a growing demand for digital marketers in Canada, India, the United States, and more.

In line with this, digital marketing specialists can expect to earn an average of $62,811 per year (Indeed, n.d.), making it a good option for those who want a lucrative career. However, it is vital to note that a graduate’s level of traditional or online digital marketing degree, their job role, and where their work can impact the digital marketing salary.

Regardless, it is undeniable that the career outlook for digital marketers is promising. After all, businesses increasingly recognize the importance of online presence and effective marketing strategies. In line with this, our team of researchers gathered valuable and reliable information that will examine how much do digital marketers make and the factors that affect their income.

Digital Marketing Salary Table of Contents

Digital Marketing Salary and Career Outlook
Factors That Impact Digital Marketing Salary
Digital Marketing Salary for Different Job Roles
Employment Profile for Digital Marketers
What are the emerging trends in digital marketing that professionals should be aware of?
How can I choose the ideal degree program for digital marketing?
Is digital marketing a good career?
How can creative writing skills enhance digital marketing performance?
What role does online education play in digital marketing?
What educational paths can lead to a successful career in digital marketing?
What is the role of formal education and certifications in advancement?
How does the right online degree program accelerate digital marketing career growth?
Essential Skills and Qualifications for Digital Marketers
How can networking and mentorship advance digital marketing careers?
How does an advanced degree in communication enhance digital marketing strategies?
How can personal branding boost your digital marketing career?
How does creative visual content influence digital marketing outcomes?

Digital Marketing Salary and Career Outlook

With more than 65% of the world’s population having access to the Internet, it is not surprising that the demand for highly skilled digital marketers is growing. It is projected that employment opportunities for digital marketing professionals will increase by 20% between 2018 and 2028 (Zippia, n.d.). This is tantamount to more than 94,000 in-house and remote digital marketing jobs available in the United States.

This increasing demand for digital marketers can impact where these professionals can leverage their knowledge and skills the most. For instance, having a specialization or working in a particular industry allows them to seek a higher digital marketing salary.

Job Roles

Average Annual Salary

Number of Available Jobs

Chief Marketing Officer

$145,358

139,565

Search Engine Optimization Manager

$74,002

2,986

E-commerce Manager

$70,649

96,869

Pay-per-click Manager

$66,535

14,588

Content Manager

$66,085

108,058

Factors That Impact Digital Marketing Salary

The COVID-19 pandemic compelled many businesses to market and sell online. However, employers find it challenging to hire business and marketing education degree graduates with specialized skills.

Additionally, US companies need to hire digital marketing specialists to keep up with technological advancements. However, key factors like education level, work experience, location, industry, and role can impact marketer salary.

Education Level

A person’s education level can affect their digital marketing salary. To illustrate, someone with a master’s degree like a masters in organizational management or a doctorate degree like an online doctorate in human resources can earn around $7,000 more than a digital marketing specialist with a bachelor’s degree (Zippia, n.d.).

Although advanced education can lead to a higher salary, those with an associate in digital marketing degree can still land an entry-level job. Associate degree graduates can kickstart their digital marketing careers as market research assistants, social media coordinators, or email marketing specialists.

Earning digital marketing certifications can also help advance someone’s digital marketing career. Here are some of the certification courses that digital marketing specialists can complete to advance their careers:

Google Ads Certification
Google Analytics Individual Qualification
Hootsuite Social Media Marketing Certification
Hubspot Inbound Marketing Certification
Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate

Work Experience

Work experience is another crucial factor in determining digital marketing salary. Those with digital marketing entry-level jobs can earn $37,900 annually, while senior-level digital marketing specialists can earn up to $105,000 (Zippia, n.d.). That is because the latter often have expertise and a proven track record of success.

In relation to this, someone’s position within an organization can impact how much they earn. A marketing and sales coordinator earns $45,306 annually, while a director of digital marketing salary averages $112,413 yearly (Zippia, n.d.).

Location

The location of the job can also be critical in one’s digital marketing salary. After all, salaries can vary significantly based on the cost of living and demand for digital marketers in an area.

Digital marketing specialists open to relocating to boost their income should consider moving to California, New Jersey, or Washington. These are the three top-paying states for digital marketers. Working in these states allows them to earn $74,001, $73,367, or $72,424, respectively (Zippia, n.d.).

Industry and Role

The industry and specific digital marketing role can also impact someone’s salary. Those in the finance industry have an average annual salary of $74,504 (Zippia, n.d.). On the other hand, those in the professional service sector earn an average of $57,237 per year.

A specialized digital marketing role — like SEO manager, e-commerce manager, and PPC manager — also enables someone to command a higher digital marketing salary. Professionals in these roles are often needed because of their specific skills and expertise that can help entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

Digital Marketing Salary for Different Job Roles

For students wondering, “What can I do with a business administration degree?" they can choose to pursue a digital marketing career. This program encompasses several areas of specialization, like financial management, accounting, and marketing.

Regardless, starting a career as a digital marketer requires earning a degree in marketing or a related field. This program will allow students to participate in internships and projects with local companies. They can use their experience to acquire and develop skills that they can showcase by building a portfolio. Doing so enables them to land some of the highest-paying marketing jobs.

Job Roles

Average Annual Salary

Average Monthly Salary

Average Hourly Salary

Chief Marketing Officer

$145,358

$10,293

$62.31

Search Engine Optimization Manager

$74,002

$5,240

$31.80

E-commerce Manager

$70,649

$5,001

$23.22

Pay-per-click Manager

$66,535

$4,711

$28.49

Content Manager

$66,085

$4,678

$27.54

Employment Profile for Digital Marketers

As mentioned, digital marketing specialists earn an average of $62,811 annually (Indeed, n.d.). However, factors like experience level, education, and location can impact someone’s digital marketing salary. Knowing these factors can help someone advance their career and boost their income. Some may even reconsider shifting to another specialization, like how to become an auditor.

Digital Marketing Salary by Education Level

In many cases, an advanced degree can increase someone’s digital marketing salary. This explains why 76% of digital marketers hold a bachelor’s degree (Zippia, n.d.). Most of them major in business (21%), marketing (20%), and communication (14%).

It is common for companies to hire digital marketing specialists with a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field. However, those with an associate degree in digital marketing can also land a well-paying job in the field.

Digital Marketing Salary by Location

Another factor that can impact a digital marketing salary is location. The top-paying state for digital marketing specialists is California. Digital marketers who work in this state earn an average of $35.58 per hour (Zippia, n.d.). On the other hand, Kentucky is the lowest-paying state for digital marketers. Those who work in this state earn $20.38 per hour.

The great thing about working as a digital marketer is that people can choose to work in-house or remotely. However, this can impact how much they can earn. The average freelance digital marketing salary ranges from $15 $45 per hour and often does not come with benefits (Upwork, n.d.).

Digital Marketing Salary by Experience Level

One’s experience level also plays a role when it comes to salary. For instance, entry-level digital marketing specialists earn an average of $52,110 annually. On the other hand, digital marketers with at least 20 years of experience can make an average of $98,736 yearly (Salary.com. n.d.).

Digital Marketing Salary by Industry

Pursuing a digital marketing career allows someone to work in various industries. Hence, switching industries can also help them boost their digital marketing salary. That said, the top-paying industries for digital marketers are finance, technology, and manufacturing.

What are the emerging trends in digital marketing that professionals should be aware of?

As digital marketing evolves, staying informed on emerging trends can provide a competitive edge. Here are some current trends digital marketers should keep in mind:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: AI-powered tools are revolutionizing customer segmentation, personalization, and predictive analytics. Digital marketers using AI can target ads more effectively and deliver customized content, improving engagement rates.
Voice Search Optimization: With the rise of voice-activated devices like Alexa and Google Assistant, optimizing content for voice search is essential. Marketers should focus on conversational keywords and natural language to reach audiences using voice search.
Influencer Marketing in Niche Markets: While influencer marketing remains popular, brands are increasingly partnering with micro and nano influencers to target specific, highly engaged audiences at a lower cost than traditional influencer campaigns.
Video and Interactive Content: Short-form videos and interactive content, such as polls and quizzes, are gaining traction. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels are popular channels for engaging audiences, especially among younger demographics.
Privacy-Focused Marketing: With growing concerns around privacy, digital marketers must adapt to new data regulations like GDPR and CCPA. Transparency and responsible data use are essential for building consumer trust.

By staying updated on these trends, digital marketers can craft more effective strategies that align with changing consumer preferences and industry shifts.

How can I choose the ideal degree program for digital marketing?

Selecting the right educational program is paramount for those who aspire to excel in digital marketing. With the availability of diverse degree options, evaluating which program aligns with your career aspirations requires diligence. An excellent starting point for prospective marketers is exploring an online business marketing degree. These programs not only offer flexibility but also provide in-depth knowledge across essential topics like social media strategies, analytics, and digital advertising.

Beyond flexibility, selecting a program accredited by recognized educational bodies ensures the quality and relevance of the coursework. Many programs also offer students real-world project opportunities, where they can implement classroom strategies in tangible settings. This experiential learning becomes vital when building a competitive portfolio that can attract top employers.

Moreover, programs that emphasize cutting-edge industry trends such as artificial intelligence in marketing or user experience (UX) optimization can help marketers stay ahead of the curve. By choosing a program tailored to the evolving demands of the digital marketplace, aspiring professionals can establish a solid foundation for long-term career success.

Is digital marketing a good career?

Working as a digital marketer is an exciting and dynamic career path that offers numerous opportunities. Digital marketers play a pivotal role in helping businesses thrive in the digital landscape by developing and implementing effective marketing strategies. They utilize a range of digital channels, tools, and techniques to drive brand awareness, engage target audiences, and ultimately boost conversions and sales.

One of the enticing aspects of working as a digital marketer is the competitive salary. As businesses increasingly recognize the importance of effective online marketing, they are willing to invest in skilled professionals who can navigate the complexities of the digital realm.

Moreover, this career offers a pathway to success for people pursuing different business careers or even another educational degree, such as masters in hospitality online. After all, the digital marketer job description entails leveraging creativity, analytical skills, technological know-how, and other hard and soft skills in expanding a company’s market reach. Whether it is optimizing websites for search engines, running social media campaigns, or analyzing data to refine marketing strategies, digital marketers are at the forefront of shaping the online presence and success of businesses across various industries.

How can creative writing skills enhance digital marketing performance?

Integrating creative writing abilities into digital marketing strategies enables professionals to craft persuasive brand narratives and produce engaging content tailored for diverse audiences. Strong creative writing skills help in developing compelling ad copy, storytelling for social media, and content that resonates emotionally, ultimately driving higher user engagement and conversion rates. This approach can set you apart in an increasingly competitive digital landscape by merging analytical insights with artistic expression. For those interested in exploring advanced creative writing expertise, you might consider reading our article, What can you do with a masters in writing?

What role does online education play in digital marketing?

Online education plays a significant role in digital marketing, offering flexibility and accessibility to learners worldwide. With the rise of digital technologies, online courses and degree programs have become increasingly popular, providing students with the opportunity to acquire in-demand skills and knowledge in digital marketing. For those interested in specializing in social media marketing, pursuing a social media marketing degree online can be a viable option. Online education enables students to learn at their own pace, balance work and study commitments, and connect with peers and instructors from diverse backgrounds. As the digital marketing landscape continues to evolve, online education is poised to remain a crucial component of professional development and career advancement in this field.

What educational paths can lead to a successful career in digital marketing?

In today's competitive job market, pursuing an education tailored to digital marketing is essential for aspiring marketers. Various educational paths can equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in this dynamic field.

Bachelor's Degree Programs: Most digital marketers hold at least a bachelor's degree. Programs in marketing, business administration, or communications provide foundational knowledge in marketing principles, consumer behavior, and digital strategies. These degrees often include coursework in social media marketing, SEO, and data analytics, which are crucial for modern marketing roles.

Accelerated Degree Options: For those looking to enter the workforce quickly, an accelerated marketing degree online can be an excellent choice. These programs allow students to complete their degrees in a shorter time frame while gaining relevant skills that meet industry demands. Graduates from these programs often find themselves well-prepared for entry-level positions in digital marketing.

Master's Degrees and Specializations: Pursuing a master's degree in digital marketing or related fields can significantly enhance career prospects. Advanced degrees offer specialized knowledge that can lead to higher-paying roles such as Chief Marketing Officer or Digital Marketing Director. Additionally, many programs now focus on emerging trends like AI in marketing and data-driven decision-making.

Certifications: In addition to formal education, obtaining certifications from recognized platforms like Google, HubSpot, or Hootsuite can bolster a marketer's credentials. These certifications demonstrate expertise in specific areas such as SEO, content marketing, and social media management, making candidates more attractive to employers.

Continuous Learning: The digital marketing landscape is ever-evolving; thus, professionals must engage in continuous learning through workshops, webinars, and online courses. Staying updated on the latest tools and trends ensures that marketers remain competitive in their field.

What is the role of formal education and certifications in advancement?

Digital marketing is a field where practical experience and a strong portfolio often carry weight, but formal education and certifications can serve as significant differentiators in a competitive job market. Professionals who pursue an online business marketing degree not only gain mastery over foundational concepts but also sharpen their technical expertise through specialized coursework. Such programs prepare individuals to navigate emerging trends in digital marketing, from AI-driven analytics to programmatic advertising.

In addition to academic qualifications, industry-recognized certifications like Google Ads, Google Analytics, and HubSpot Inbound Marketing validate a digital marketer’s proficiency in key areas. These credentials can open doors to higher-paying roles and more strategic responsibilities. They also signal a commitment to continuous learning—an essential trait in a field that evolves as rapidly as digital marketing.

Earning these credentials as part of an educational journey underscores the importance of combining theoretical knowledge with practical training. Doing so can enable professionals to advance their careers and tap into opportunities across various industries.

How does the right online degree program accelerate digital marketing career growth?

In digital marketing, selecting an online degree program that aligns with current industry demands can bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application. Programs with a focus on real-world digital strategies, analytics, and platform-specific skills enable professionals to quickly adopt emerging techniques and meet evolving employer expectations. For professionals seeking to enhance their expertise with minimal downtime, exploring the fastest social media marketing degree online provides a strategic avenue for accelerated career advancement.

Essential Skills and Qualifications for Digital Marketers

To succeed in the competitive field of digital marketing, aspiring professionals need to develop a combination of technical expertise, creative thinking, and soft skills. Employers typically look for the following qualifications and abilities:

Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or a related field is a common starting point. For students interested in understanding specific program requirements, explore communication degree requirements to see how communication skills align with digital marketing roles.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics, HubSpot, and Hootsuite is essential. These platforms enable marketers to analyze campaign performance, manage social media, and optimize marketing strategies.
Content Creation Skills: The ability to craft engaging blogs, videos, and social media posts is crucial. Understanding audience behavior and tailoring content to meet their needs ensures high engagement rates.
SEO and SEM Knowledge: Search engine optimization (SEO) and search engine marketing (SEM) are cornerstones of digital marketing. Knowing how to optimize websites and run paid campaigns can significantly enhance a marketer’s value to employers.
Data Analysis: Data-driven decision-making is critical for refining marketing strategies. Proficiency in tools like Excel, Tableau, and Google Data Studio can set candidates apart.
Adaptability and Continuous Learning: Digital marketing evolves rapidly, so professionals must stay updated with industry trends and emerging technologies, such as AI-driven marketing and voice search optimization.

Building these skills and qualifications can pave the way for a rewarding digital marketing career, opening doors to diverse industries and high-paying roles.

How can networking and mentorship advance digital marketing careers?

In today’s competitive digital marketing landscape, cultivating a robust professional network and engaging in mentorship can significantly enhance career growth. Establishing connections through industry organizations, conferences, and online communities enables professionals to gain insights on emerging trends and refine strategic decision-making. Furthermore, mentorship from seasoned experts offers personalized guidance and fosters the development of key soft skills, complementing formal training and technical expertise. This dual approach not only bolsters credibility but also broadens opportunities in specialized fields such as the communications career sector.

How does an advanced degree in communication enhance digital marketing strategies?

Pursuing an online master’s in communicationcan refine a digital marketer’s ability to strategize persuasive campaigns and tailor content that resonates with diverse audiences. Integrating theoretical models of communication with practical digital tools helps professionals analyze consumer behavior patterns while adapting to rapid market changes. This focused education provides a competitive edge by fostering enhanced storytelling capabilities, data-driven decision making, and effective cross-channel messaging strategies that are crucial in elevating brand presence and engagement.

How can personal branding boost your digital marketing career?

Digital marketing professionals who build a strong personal brand stand out in a competitive market. Cultivating a consistent online presence through targeted content, thought leadership, and authentic storytelling can establish credibility and foster trust with potential employers and clients. Leveraging platforms such as LinkedIn, industry blogs, and social media enables marketers to showcase their expertise and unique insights, complementing their technical skills with a recognizable personal narrative. Investing in quality writing and communication skills—such as by exploring a cheap online creative writing degree—can further enhance one’s ability to create compelling content that resonates with diverse audiences and drives professional growth.

How does creative visual content influence digital marketing outcomes?

In today’s competitive digital landscape, leveraging creative visual content is paramount to capturing audience attention and driving engagement. High-quality visuals and strategic design not only bolster brand identity but also enhance message clarity, resulting in improved conversion rates. Digital marketers increasingly rely on platforms that emphasize visual storytelling to differentiate brands and communicate complex ideas succinctly. Expertise in design complements technical and strategic skills, enabling professionals to create cohesive campaigns that resonate with target audiences. For those aiming to expand their design acumen as part of their digital marketing toolkit, pursuing graphic design online degree programs can offer a significant advantage by integrating creative principles with contemporary digital strategies.

Kickstart Your Career in Digital Marketing

Digital marketing allows those with a degree in internet marketing to perform a range of roles and responsibilities, from SEO to social media marketing and data analysis. They can also leverage their knowledge and skills to work in various sectors like finance, manufacturing, and technology. Considering this job also offers competitive compensation that is above the federal minimum wage, it comes as no surprise that many professionals are looking to become part of this industry.

However, before you decide to pursue this career, it is good to know that there are various factors that may affect the digital marketing salary. This way, it is easier for aspiring digital marketers to evaluate their earning potential and figure out if pursuing it is a worthy endeavor.

Key Insights

Growing Demand: Digital marketing professionals are increasingly in demand, with a projected 20% job growth from 2018 to 2028, resulting in over 94,000 new job opportunities in the U.S.
Competitive Salaries: The average annual salary for digital marketers is $62,811, with significant variation based on job role, location, education, and experience.
Educational Impact: Higher education levels, such as master's or doctorate degrees, can increase salaries by around $7,000 compared to those with bachelor's degrees. Certifications in digital marketing also enhance earning potential.
Experience Matters: Entry-level digital marketers earn approximately $52,110 annually, while those with over 20 years of experience can earn up to $98,736 per year.
Location-Based Salaries: California, New Jersey, and Washington are the top-paying states for digital marketers, offering average salaries of $74,001, $73,367, and $72,424, respectively.
Industry Influence: Digital marketers in the finance industry earn the highest average salaries at $74,504, compared to $57,237 in the professional services sector.
Flexible Career Options: Digital marketers can choose to work in-house or freelance, with freelance digital marketers earning between $15 to $45 per hour.

FAQ

1. What is the average salary for a digital marketer in the United States?

The average salary for a digital marketer in the United States is $62,811 per year. However, this can vary based on factors such as job role, location, education, and experience.

2. How does education level impact a digital marketer's salary?

Education level significantly impacts a digital marketer's salary. Professionals with a master’s degree or higher can earn around $7,000 more annually than those with a bachelor’s degree. Certifications in digital marketing can also enhance earning potential.

3. Which states offer the highest salaries for digital marketers?

California, New Jersey, and Washington are the top-paying states for digital marketers, offering average annual salaries of $74,001, $73,367, and $72,424, respectively.

4. What are some high-paying job roles in digital marketing?

High-paying job roles in digital marketing include Chief Marketing Officer (average salary: $145,358), Search Engine Optimization Manager ($74,002), E-commerce Manager ($70,649), Pay-per-click Manager ($66,535), and Content Manager ($66,085).

5. How does work experience affect a digital marketer's salary?

Work experience greatly influences a digital marketer's salary. Entry-level professionals earn around $52,110 annually, while those with 20 or more years of experience can earn up to $98,736 per year.

6. Which industries pay the most for digital marketing professionals?

The finance, technology, and manufacturing industries offer the highest salaries for digital marketing professionals. Those in the finance industry earn an average of $74,504 annually.

7. Is a career in digital marketing a good choice?

Yes, a career in digital marketing is a good choice due to its growing demand, competitive salaries, and diverse job opportunities. Digital marketers play a crucial role in helping businesses thrive in the digital landscape.

8. Can digital marketers work remotely?

Yes, digital marketers can work remotely. However, the location can impact their earnings. Freelance digital marketers typically earn between $15 to $45 per hour and may not receive benefits.

9. What certifications can help advance a digital marketing career?

Certifications that can help advance a digital marketing career include Google Ads Certification, Google Analytics Individual Qualification, Hootsuite Social Media Marketing Certification, Hubspot Inbound Marketing Certification, and Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate.

10. What factors influence digital marketing salaries?

Several factors influence digital marketing salaries, including education level, work experience, job role, location, and industry. Understanding these factors can help professionals advance their careers and boost their income.

References: