How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Freelance Social Media Manager in Canada?

Social media management costs depend on several factors. The number of platforms significantly affects workload — managing Instagram alone costs far less than managing Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Twitter simultaneously. Content creation complexity matters: text-based posts cost less than graphic-heavy content or video production. Posting frequency drives cost proportionally — 3 posts per week is less expensive than daily posting across multiple platforms. Community management intensity varies: some brands need active engagement and DM responses, while others need minimal community interaction. The strategic component affects pricing — a manager who develops strategy, conducts competitor analysis, and provides growth recommendations charges more than one who simply schedules pre-approved content. Paid social media advertising management is typically a separate service with its own fee structure.

Social media management seniority affects both the quality of content and the strategic value delivered. Junior social media managers (1-3 years) can handle day-to-day posting, basic graphic creation using templates, and community engagement following established guidelines. Mid-level managers (3-6 years) bring strategic thinking — they develop content strategies, understand platform algorithms, create engaging content independently, and analyze performance to optimize results. Senior social media managers (7+ years) provide high-level strategy, have deep platform expertise, understand how social media fits into broader marketing funnels, and can manage paid campaigns alongside organic content. For basic posting and community management, junior talent works. For strategy and growth, invest in mid-level or senior expertise.

Start with fewer platforms and do them well rather than spreading thin across many. Focus on the 1-2 platforms where your target audience is most active. Budget for content creation tools (Canva Pro, scheduling tools) in addition to management fees. If you need video content, budget for it separately — video production is significantly more time-intensive. Set clear expectations about posting frequency, response times, and reporting cadence upfront. For new brands, invest more in strategy development at the start. Consider a 3-month minimum commitment — social media results take time to build. Budget for paid promotion alongside organic management: even a small paid budget amplifies organic efforts significantly.

Monthly retainers are the standard model for social media management, as the work is inherently ongoing. Most freelance social media managers offer tiered packages based on the number of platforms, posting frequency, and services included. A basic package might cover 3-4 posts per week on one platform, while a premium package includes daily posting across multiple platforms with community management and reporting. Fixed-price projects work well for one-time deliverables like strategy documents, content calendars, or campaign plans. Avoid hourly billing for ongoing social media management — it creates unpredictable costs. Some managers offer project-based pricing for specific campaigns or launches.