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How Much Do TV Ads Cost?

The cost of TV ads varies widely depending on a number of factors, such as the time of day the ad will air, the specific network and program, the length of the ad, and the geographic location of the target audience.

Typically, the cost of a 30-second ad on a major national network during prime-time programming can range from $200,000 to $1 million or more. However, the cost can be significantly lower for local or regional markets and for less popular programs.

The costs also vary depending on the type of ad. A national ad will cost more than a local one. Likewise, a live ad will be more expensive than a pre-recorded one.

Additionally, many TV networks offer package deals or bulk ad buys that can offer a discounted rate. Working with a media buying agency can also help to negotiate lower rates and find the best deals for a given budget.

It is worth noting that the cost of a TV ad is not only the airtime, it also includes the production costs, creative, scripting, talent, post-production and airing costs, so the final price can be significantly higher.

Some approximate cost estimates for TV ads include:

Local TV stations: Can cost a few hundred to several thousand dollars for a 30-second ad, depending on the time slot and station.

National cable networks: Can cost tens of thousands to several hundred thousand dollars for a 30-second ad, depending on the time slot and network.

National broadcast networks: Can cost hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars for a 30-second ad, depending on the time slot and network. For example, during a high-profile event like the Super Bowl, a 30-second commercial can cost around $5 Million in average during 2021.

It's important to note that the cost of TV ads can also vary depending on the frequency of airing and time of the year, for example running an ad campaign during a prime time can be more expensive than running it during a non-prime time.

It's also worth mentioning that it is possible to negotiate rates with the TV station or network, so these estimates should be taken as a rough guide.

In summary, the cost of TV ads can range from a few thousand dollars for a local ad to millions of dollars for a national ad during prime-time programming. The exact cost will depend on a variety of factors such as the time of day, the specific network and program, the length of the ad, and the geographic location of the target audience.

Find out how Simulmedia’s unique TV+® platform for TV and streaming advertising provides unified access to premium linear and CTV inventory across all networks and publishers. Request a demo or email us at advertise@simulmedia.com.