How It Works
Three simple steps to get accurate calculations
1
Enter SEO Investment
Input monthly SEO cost and expected time to rank.
2
Set Lead Expectations
Define expected leads once ranked and close rate.
3
Compare to Paid Ads
Enter your current or expected paid ads CPL.
4
Review ROI Comparison
See breakeven month, lifetime ROI, and which is better.
Loading Local SEO ROI vs Paid Ads Calculator...
Frequently Asked Questions
Is local SEO worth the investment?
Usually yes for long-term. SEO has upfront cost but CPL decreases over time. Paid ads: consistent CPL forever. If you plan to be in business 2+ years, SEO often wins. Example: $750/mo for 24 months = $18K, generating $60K+ in leads.
How long does local SEO take to work?
Typical: 4-8 months for page 1 rankings in moderate competition. Low competition: 2-4 months. High competition (lawyers, HVAC): 8-12+ months. Google Business Profile optimization can show results in 2-3 months.
What's a good SEO cost for local businesses?
Range: $500-2,500/month for local SEO. Under $500 is usually ineffective. $750-1,500 is the sweet spot for most local service businesses. Over $2,000 for competitive industries or multi-location.
How do I calculate SEO CPL over time?
SEO CPL = Total SEO spend ÷ Total leads generated. Year 1 CPL is high (paying to rank). Year 2-3 CPL drops significantly. Over 3 years, SEO CPL often falls to $20-50 vs $60-150 for paid ads.
When should I use paid ads vs SEO?
Use both. Paid ads: Immediate leads, testing markets, seasonal pushes. SEO: Long-term lead flow, brand building, reducing paid ad dependency. Start with ads for cash flow, invest in SEO for future.
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Results are estimates for informational purposes only. Consult professionals for important decisions.