How Much is A 30-Second Commercial? Cost Explained

March 17, 2025

14 minutes

Lorenzo Nicolini

CEO at Moonb

Creating a commercial video can feel overwhelming. There are so many choices to make, and it can be hard to know where to start. One of the biggest challenges many people face is figuring out the budget. How much is a 30-second commercial? The answer can vary widely, depending on what type of commercial you’re creating, where you will run it, and how big of a production you want to make. Before diving into costs, it’s essential to understand how to make a commercial video—from scripting and storyboarding to filming and editing. This blog will cover all the factors determining the cost of a 30-second commercial and provide a ballpark figure to help you start planning your budget.
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As you will see, the answer to how much a 30-second commercial costs can change based on many factors. For instance, the price might be different for a local TV commercial versus a digital ad that runs on social media. The more you know about these differences, the better equipped you will be to plan your budget and create a commercial that meets your business goals.

How Much is A 30-Second Commercial? Cost Explained

making a video - How Much is a 30-second Commercial

If you’re thinking about producing a 30-second commercial, you’re probably wondering: How much will this cost? The answer isn’t straightforward because several factors influence the final price.

On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the production quality, talent, location, and special effects involved.

Live-Action Commercial Costs

Production location is a significant cost factor for live-action commercials. In the U.S., a high-quality 30-second live-action ad typically costs $55,000. But did you know you can produce the same commercial in Argentina for as little as $25,000, less than half the cost?

Other factors that can drive up the price of a live-action commercial include:

Hiring well-known actors or influencers
Using elaborate set designs or props, shooting at multiple locations
Incorporating special effects or CGI

Animated Commercial Costs

If you’re considering an animated ad, costs vary based on style and complexity. A simple motion graphics ad can cost between $10,000 and $30,000, while a high-end, 3D-animated commercial can easily exceed $50,000 to $100,000.

Some companies, like Moonb, offer subscription-based models that help brands create premium animated ads at competitive prices. Trusted by global brands like Nestlé, Toyota, and Microsoft, they deliver studio-quality animation at a fraction of the cost of larger production houses.

Airtime and Distribution Costs

Remember that production isn’t the only expense—once your commercial is ready, you must pay for airtime. A local TV spot might cost a few thousand dollars, while national ads, especially during prime time or significant events like the Super Bowl, can cost millions.

How Does Moonb Help With Commercial Video Production?

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Moonb blends creativity with efficiency to eliminate the headaches that come with traditional commercial video production. Instead of operating as just another video agency, we become a strategic partner to your business, making video production a streamlined and results-driven experience.

We integrate directly into your workflow and ensure clear communication and project transparency every step using:

Trello
Slack
MS Teams

With weekly strategy calls and a contract-free, full-service model, we make video production agile, flexible, and tailored to your needs. Unlike working with freelancers or managing an in-house team, our subscription-based model provides consistency, scalability, and access to a team of experts dedicated to your brand’s success.

Compelling Narratives Drive Engagement

At the heart of our process is a deep commitment to storytelling. We don’t just produce videos, we craft compelling narratives that captivate audiences and drive engagement. Our team immerses itself in your product or service, ensuring that every commercial we create resonates with your target market.

From concept development to final execution, we focus on creating high-impact content that looks great and delivers measurable results for your business.

Factors Affecting The Cost Of A 30-Second Commercial

dollar bills - How Much is a 30-second Commercial

Production Time and Complexity: The Longer It Takes, The More It Costs

The longer it takes to film and edit a commercial, the higher the production costs. Multiple factors contribute to the time required to complete production, including the number of locations, weather conditions, and the complexity of the shoot.

Outdoor shoots can be unpredictable due to weather delays, while indoor shoots may require elaborate set designs and lighting setups that add to the timeline and budget.

Commercial Length and Footage Requirements: More Footage Equals More Costs

While a 30-second ad is a standard length, the footage required to create a compelling commercial impacts costs. A more extended commercial, such as a 60-second ad, requires additional shooting and editing time. Using more still images instead of live-action footage can reduce costs, but high-quality visuals remain essential for engagement.

Shots, Locations, and Travel Costs: Location, Location, Location

Each additional shot and filming location increases the budget. Moving between multiple locations extends production time and incurs extra expenses such as travel, lodging, and equipment rentals. If filming requires securing permits for public spaces or renting a studio, those fees also contribute to the overall costs.

Crew Size and Expertise: The More, The Merrier

A commercial shoot typically requires the following:

Director
Producer
Director of Photography (DP)
Camera operators
Production assistants

More complex shoots might necessitate additional personnel, such as:

Lighting technicians
Sound engineers
Makeup artists
Wardrobe stylists

The crew’s experience level also plays a role, hiring industry veterans commands a higher budget but ensures professional results.

Special Effects and Animation: It’s Not Just for Kids

Incorporating CGI, green screen effects, or intricate animation sequences can significantly increase costs. While animation eliminates location and talent expenses, high-quality motion graphics require specialized expertise, making them an investment-heavy choice. Advanced special effects, such as explosions or CGI environments, demand a larger budget for post-production work.

Licensing and Rights Fees: Playing by the Rules

Licensing fees must be factored in if a commercial includes copyrighted elements, such as:

Music
Stock footage
Celebrity endorsements
Branded content

Costs vary based on factors like the popularity of the content, the duration of use, and whether the commercial will air.

Locally
Nationally
Internationally

Airtime Costs and Advertising Placement: Where the Real Money Goes

Once the commercial is produced, buying airtime is a significant expense.

Airtime pricing depends on several factors:

Time of day: Prime-time slots (evenings) are more expensive than late-night or midday slots.
Seasonal demand: Rates rise during high-demand periods like the holidays or significant events such as the Super Bowl, where a 30-second ad in 2025 cost $8 million.
Target audience and reach: Local ads are more affordable than national campaigns, but digital streaming and social media placements also provide cost-effective alternatives.
Programming: The programming surrounding the commercial’s airtime slot can impact costs, with popular or high-rated shows typically commanding higher rates than less popular programming.

MSOs advertise their ads within half-hour over the top for new audiences. Advertisers may choose to broadcast their videos with specific programming genres or themes that resonate with their target viewers to maximize effectiveness and return on investment.

Marketing and Distribution: The Party Doesn’t Stop Once You Go Live

Beyond airing the ad on TV and maximizing visibility, businesses must allocate budgets for:

Online distribution
Social media promotions
Influencer partnerships
Paid advertising

Digital distribution, including placements on platforms like YouTube or streaming services, often requires separate budgeting but allows for more precise audience targeting.

Agency Fees and Creative Services: You Get What You Pay For

Hiring a creative agency or video production company can streamline the process and ensure high-quality results. Agencies charge fees based on their:

Reputation
Experience
The scope of the project

While working with an established agency can guarantee professional execution, businesses on a tighter budget may opt for in-house production or freelance videographers.

How Moonb’s Seamless Integration and Flexible Subscription Model Transform Corporate Video Production

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Moonb is a video marketing agency that offers corporate video services. We provide seamless project management integration via:

Trello
Slack
MS Teams

Moonb stands out as a superior alternative to traditional:

Video agencies
Freelancers
In-house production teams

Our flexible, subscription-based model, combined with our expertise in creating compelling video content, positions us as the ideal partner for companies looking to elevate their marketing and educational initiatives through the power of video. Start a 3-day free trial with our corporate video services to take your content to the next level.

5 Best Tips To Reduce The Cost Of A 30-Second Commercial

man with a camera - How Much is a 30-second Commercial

1. Plan Thoroughly: The Key to Saving Money on a 30-Second Commercial

One of the most significant cost drivers in commercial production is poor planning. A lack of direction can lead to last-minute changes, extra shooting days, and wasted resources—all of which add up quickly.

By mapping out everything in advance, from script to shot list, you can prevent unexpected delays and ensure the entire team is aligned.

2. Use In-House or Local Talent: Cut Costs, Not Quality

Hiring professional actors, influencers, or voiceover artists can be expensive. Instead, consider using employees, local talent, or even customers to bring authenticity to your ad while reducing costs.

If you need professionals, hiring local talent instead of flying in actors can help you cut travel and accommodation expenses.

3. Limit Locations: Keep Your 30-Second Commercial Shoot Simple

Every additional location means:

More time
Logistics
Expenses for permits, travel, and setup

Constricting your shoot to one or two locations or using a studio with customizable backgrounds can make production much more cost-effective.

A green screen or animated background can also help avoid expensive on-location filming if your concept allows.

4. Simplify the Concept: How to Save Money on Your Commercial

A high-impact commercial doesn’t have to be complex. Elaborate sets, special effects, and CGI can drive up costs significantly, so focusing on a clear, compelling message with minimal extras can help you save money while still being effective. Some of the most memorable commercials rely on strong storytelling rather than expensive production techniques.

5. Work with an Agency That Offers Competitive Pricing: How to Save Money on Your 30-Second Commercial

Choosing the right agency can make a significant difference in cost. Instead of going with big-name studios that charge premium rates, look for smaller agencies or production houses that offer high-quality work at competitive prices.

Some agencies also provide bundled services, including scriptwriting, editing, and post-production, which can save you money in the long run.

Start a 3-day Free Trial to Take Your Content to the Next Level with Our Educational Video Production Service

moonb - How Much is a 30-second Commercial

The average cost of a 30-second commercial can fluctuate significantly based on various factors. According to recent estimates, the price of a 30-second commercial is around $125,000. This number can vary based on the commercial's intended use and several other factors.

For example, a 30-second commercial intended for broadcast television will cost significantly more than a digital ad that runs on social media. Similarly, a commercial that airs during the Super Bowl will cost much more than a local ad that runs during a lesser-known program.

How Much Does it Cost to Make a 30-Second Commercial?

Breaking down the cost of a 30-second commercial reveals details about what you are paying for. While you may be able to produce a simple video on your own for a couple of hundred dollars, most businesses will want their commercial to look professional. This requires hiring a videographer or an experienced production company.

The average cost of making a 30-second commercial with a professional production company is around $15,000. This includes pre-production, production, and post-production costs. Of course, this number can vary based on the specifics of your project, including:

The scope
Location
Any special requirements you may have

How to Get the Most Out of Your Commercial Budget

If you're concerned about the cost of a 30-second commercial, several strategies exist to maximize your budget without compromising quality. Start by evaluating your operations for cost-saving opportunities, which could free up additional funds for your commercial.

Another approach is to streamline your existing processes and workflows, reducing the time and resources needed for production. Also, consider producing a series of commercials instead of a single video. A cohesive set of videos with a shared theme or storyline can improve your return on investment and allow you to stagger releases, spreading out costs over time.

Partnering with a professional video production company offering flexible pricing or subscription-based packages can ensure you get the most value from your commercial and make it easier to fit within your budget.

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Have Questions?

How successful is video marketing?

Video marketing is absolutely one of the best investments you can make for your brand! It captures attention like no other medium, keeping your audience engaged and eager to learn more. Plus, it often delivers a fantastic return on investment (ROI), making it a smart choice for any business. In a world where social media is dominated by video content, using it effectively can help you connect with your audience in a memorable and impactful way. Don't miss out on this powerful tool to elevate your marketing strategy!

How much do marketing videos typically cost?

Marketing videos can be very expensive, especially with traditional agencies, where costs can reach $20,000 to $40,000 per minute. With moonb, we offer a flat monthly cost that provides you access to a dedicated team focused on delivering high-quality videos quickly and efficiently, making the process more budget-friendly while still maintaining exceptional standards.

Is there a limit to revisions during the process?

There are no limits to revisions during the process. We want to make sure you’re completely satisfied with the final product, so we’ll work with you until it meets your expectations.

How long does the marketing video production process take?

The marketing video production process can vary widely depending on the brief. For short-form packages, it might take just a few days, while more complex advanced animations could require a few weeks to ensure quality and attention to detail.

How long should my marketing video be?

For most marketing videos, aim for a length of 30 to 90 seconds. This duration is typically enough to engage viewers while conveying your key message effectively. However, depending on the content and platform, some videos can be longer, so consider your audience's attention span and the context of your message.

Can you handle the entire process?

Of course! We smoothly manage your project from the initial idea to the final publication. We take care of writing, visuals, animation, voiceover, editing, sound, branding, and more. You can participate as much as you like or let us handle everything. We'll make sure your content is perfect for any platform that supports videos.

What does the onboarding process look like?

Once you subscribe, you will receive an email within a few minutes containing two essential links. The first link directs you to our production platform where you can access all your videos and request reviews. The second link takes you to your customer portal to manage your subscription. Your dedicated video team will contact you immediately to schedule a first call, during which we'll gather all the necessary information to get started. We'll then create a content strategy plan and begin working on your productions. We will develop a content calendar with precise deliverables and a review process. You can be as involved as you wish or leave it entirely in our hands.

Are there any refunds if I don't like the service?

If your dedicated team has started work on your designs or videos before you decide to cancel, you won't be eligible for a refund.

Will I have the working files? What about ownership of the work?

Absolutely, you'll receive the working files, and you'll own all the intellectual property created.

Who will be my point of contact?

As soon as you sign up, you'll be assigned a dedicated video team, supervised by a Creative Director who will be your main point of contact. You will be onboarded to our production platform, where you can oversee the entire process and manage each video production.

Do you sign non-disclosure agreements?

Absolutely, your privacy matters to us. We can offer you our standard Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), or you are welcome to provide your own.

How hard is it to cancel a subscription?

Not hard at all, we keep things simple: no documentation or extensive process is involved and you can cancel at any point in time. Just log in to your Moonb account and you can cancel with just a few clicks. Need a hand with this? No worries. You can request assistance via email or directly to your dedicated team.

How Much is A 30-Second Commercial? Cost Explained