Social media management cost is driven by four things: how many platforms you use, how many posts and reels are made each month, whether design and video are included, and whether ads and community replies are part of the job. Compare packages by those deliverables, not by the headline price.
What does a social media manager actually do?
- Plans a monthly content calendar around your offers, seasons and events
- Writes captions and researches hashtags
- Designs graphics, carousels and story frames
- Scripts, shoots or edits reels and short videos
- Schedules and publishes posts
- Replies to comments and messages (if agreed)
- Reports on reach, engagement and enquiries
The main cost drivers
Number of platforms
Each platform has its own formats. Posting the same image everywhere is cheap; adapting properly for Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok takes more time.
Posts vs reels
Static posts are the lightest. Reels and videos take scripting, filming or sourcing footage, and editing, so they cost more per piece.
Design quality
Templates are quick. Custom graphics built on your brand identity cost more but look consistent.
Community management
Replying daily to comments and messages is ongoing work and should be priced separately or clearly included.
Paid ads
Running Meta ads is a separate skill. Ad spend is paid to the platform; management is paid to whoever runs the campaigns.
Setup vs ongoing management
Setup is a one-time job: creating or fixing profiles, bios, highlights, links and brand visuals. Our Social Media Setup covers this.
Ongoing management is the monthly content and publishing work. See Social Media Management.
What 8 vs 16 vs 20 posts a month gets you
Here is how social media is included in Linikus packages (full details):
| Package | Monthly price | Social media included |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | $250 | 8 social media posts, caption writing, hashtag research |
| Pro | $490 | 16 posts, 4 reels, story designs |
| Elite | $1,650 | 20 social posts, 8 reels, plus Meta Ads and LinkedIn marketing |
8 posts a month (about two a week) keeps a profile active and credible. 16 posts with reels gives steady reach growth. 20 posts with 8 reels and ads suits brands that treat social as a main sales channel.
Can you do it yourself with AI tools?
Yes, partly. AI tools can draft captions, suggest content ideas and resize designs. What they cannot do is know your customers, take real photos of your work, or keep a consistent plan when you are busy. Many owners do the basics themselves and outsource reels, design or strategy. The Marketing Starter Kit is built for that route.
Frequently asked questions
Which platforms should I start with?
The one or two where your customers already spend time. For most local and consumer businesses that is Instagram and Facebook; for B2B services it is often LinkedIn. Do two well before adding a third.
Do you reply to comments?
Community management can be included — agree in writing which messages are answered, how fast, and what gets passed to you.
Is ad spend included in the price?
Usually not. Ad budgets are paid to Meta or Google directly and set separately from the management fee.
Related: Digital Marketing Packages: What You Should Get at Each Price. Questions? Talk to us.