What is the SEO Salary in India and Internationally? – 2025 Updated

Updated on: Dec 26, 2024

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This article provides a comprehensive overview of the SEO salary in India, highlighting the fact that compensation varies based on factors such as experience, expertise, designation, and location. For instance, an SEO executive earns around ₹2.25 lakhs per annum, while an SEO manager can earn around ₹7 lakhs per annum. Additionally, metropolitan areas like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore tend to offer higher salaries due to increased demand and cost of living.

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Curious about how much you can earn as an SEO professional in India? You’re not alone!

The SEO salary in India is a hot topic for aspiring marketers and industry experts alike, and for good reason. As businesses go digital, SEO has become one of the most sought-after skills, driving demand for talented professionals who can boost online visibility.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about SEO salaries in India—what you can expect as a fresher, how experience impacts your earnings, and the top factors influencing pay..

 

But First, What is SEO?

SEO, or Search Engine Optimisation, is all about enhancing your website to rank higher in search engine results, thereby attracting more traffic.

In today’s digital world, securing top search engine rankings is crucial, as users primarily focus on the first page of results. Google’s algorithms are designed to quickly provide users with the most relevant and high-quality results.

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) aims to improve a website’s visibility and ranking within these search results, thereby increasing organic (non-paid) traffic

As an essential part of the rapidly expanding digital marketing industry, SEO has gained immense importance. Creating a website is just the beginning; the true test is ensuring it stands out and reaches your audience.

With more businesses transitioning online, the demand for SEO professionals is soaring globally and is expected to keep rising.

If you’re contemplating a career in SEO, be prepared for a dynamic and fast-evolving field that offers significant financial rewards and is among the most sought-after roles in digital marketing.

So, what are the key factors that can improve one’s SEO salary in India? 

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5 Factors that Will Determine Your SEO Salary

1) Work Experience

Experience is a significant factor in determining the SEO executive salary in India. More experience generally means a higher salary package because seasoned professionals bring valuable practical knowledge and proven skills.

They’ve tackled various SEO challenges, implemented successful strategies, and deeply understand search engine algorithms. Companies seek experienced SEOs because they add significant value by developing effective strategies, analysing data, managing complex projects, and troubleshooting SEO issues.

Essentially, experience reduces risk for employers, justifying a higher SEO salary in India for those with a proven track record.

2) Expertise

Your expertise in SEO and the depth of your knowledge are crucial factors in determining your SEO salary in India.

Even if you’re a fresher with no prior work experience, you can excel by proactively learning and staying updated with the latest technical know-how.

For consultants, continuous learning and adaptation are essential, as clients hire them for their SEO expertise.

Additionally, you’ll delve into the technical aspects of SEO, which are often the most challenging but crucial for securing a high SEO executive salary or even an SEO specialist salary.

3) Designation

Your job title also plays a significant role in determining your SEO salary in India. Industry standards dictate different pay scales for various designations.

For example, while an SEO Executive might earn a base salary of 2,25,000, an SEO Manager with more responsibilities and experience could command 7,00,000. Check out the next section to explore specific salary ranges for different SEO roles.

4) Geographical Location

Metro areas like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai typically offer a higher SEO salary in India due to the higher cost of living and greater demand for SEO talent.

So, if you’re looking to maximise your earnings, these cities could be your SEO goldmine!

Remember, even as a fresh graduate, the SEO field is ripe with growth opportunities. With experience and expertise, you can climb the SEO expert salary ladder and achieve your financial goals.

5) Education

A qualification in digital marketing or IT can greatly increase your starting salary.

Online digital marketing courses with placement are beneficial for SEO experts because they provide advanced strategies, updated techniques, and comprehensive training in digital marketing, thereby enhancing your skills and industry knowledge.

Whether you’re just starting or a seasoned pro, understanding SEO salaries in India is key to charting your career path.

From entry-level positions to high-paying executive roles, we’ll break down the numbers and explore what factors influence your earning potential.

 

SEO Salary in India 2025- Based on Designations

With the immense demand for digital marketing experts in India, we have seen a surge in demand for skilled SEO experts. From freshers to directors, the demand spans all designations.

According to Glassdoor, here are the average SEO salaries in India based on designation, including an SEO executive salary in India, SEO specialist salary in India, and SEO expert salary.

Job Title Average Salary (LPA)
SEO Executive ₹ 2,25,000
SEO Analyst ₹ 3,00,000
SEO Specialist ₹ 3,75,000
SEO Manager ₹ 7,00,000
SEO Director ₹ 15,00,000
SEO Consultant ₹ 3,12,000

 

1. SEO Fresher / Executive Salary in India

seo salary in india - Image of seo executive salary

Source: Glassdoor

An SEO executive is typically an entry-level role for those new to the field. These professionals often receive guidance and mentorship from experienced SEO Analysts to build their skills.

They are trained to learn about the tools and various techniques of SEO. The average SEO salary in India for an executive position is about INR 15,000/month – 25,000/month.

Of course, to get a job as an SEO executive, you must know the basics of the field. To do this, we highly recommend opting for one of the best digital marketing courses out there.

Here, IIDE’s certifications will serve as a testament to the knowledge that you have gained in the course. This will help you secure a job with a high-paying SEO salary in India.

These programmes are specially designed to teach you the ins and outs of digital marketing and go a long way in preparing you for a future in SEO.

Want to know how these courses work? Check out IIDE’s free digital marketing courses.

 

2. SEO Analyst Salary in India

seo salary in india - Image of seo analyst salary

Source: Glassdoor

 

An SEO analyst is responsible for handling all SEO-related tasks within an organisation. They analyse trends, identify trending keywords, create quality content, and optimise the website.

The typical SEO analyst salary in India is approximately INR 15,000 to 30,000 per month.

This figure can vary based on experience and specific job responsibilities, but it provides a general idea of the SEO salary in India per month. You can get started in this field by doing an online SEO course.

 

3. SEO Specialist Salary in India

seo salary in india - Seo specialist salary

Source: Glassdoor

An SEO specialist is responsible for strategising, ideating, and analysing SEO campaigns. The average SEO specialist salary in India is around INR 20,000 to 38,000 per month.

They work closely with the analyst and the SEO executive to get campaigns moving. This position plays a crucial part in the overall SEO job salary landscape and is integral to a successful SEO strategy.

Additionally, they can upskill in other areas by starting with a free fundamentals of digital marketing course and bag a higher SEO specialist salary.

 

4. SEO Manager Salary in India

seo salary in india - Image of seo manager salary

Source: Glassdoor

An SEO manager manages and supervises the team’s day-to-day workings. They oversee the daily tasks of the team by other teams, such as social media and the company’s management as well.

The average SEO salary in India for an SEO manager is INR 5L to 11L per month.

 

5. SEO Director Salary in India

seo salary in india - Image of seo director salary

Source: Glassdoor

SEO directors are usually the heads of the department. They set targets and goals for the entire team, keeping the company’s growth in mind. An SEO director also collaborates with other team members on inter-department projects.

The SEO salary in India for a director averages around INR 1,70,000 per month.

P.S. If you’re already skilled in SEO, a digital marketing course is a great way to boost your career. It expands your skillset, teaches integrated strategies, and increases your marketability, leading to better job opportunities and higher earning potential.

 

6. SEO Consultant Salary in India

seo salary in india - Image of seo consultant salary

Source: Glassdoor

An SEO consultant is a third-party expert who plans, implements, and executes all SEO campaigns for their clients from scratch. They might work independently or lead a team to manage client projects.

Acting as advisors, they provide all-encompassing SEO services and guidance. The SEO salary in India for a consultant varies based on expertise, past projects, client portfolio, and years of experience.

For instance, an SEO consultant with 1-4 years of experience can expect a monthly salary of about INR 12,000 to 35,000. This figure falls within the range of the SEO salary in India per month but can differ depending on the role and experience level.

Did you know? SEO isn’t the only way to make loads of money. If you want to know other ways to do the same check out our free top paying skills course.

 

SEO Salary in 2025 – Based on Indian Locations

The salary for SEO professionals varies depending on location and the cost of living in different geographical areas. Here’s a look at the SEO salaries in India based on location, according to Glassdoor’s recent data:

 

1. SEO Salary in Mumbai

SEO salary in india - Mumbai SEO executive salaries

Source: Glassdoor

 

SEO salary for freshers: The average starting package in Mumbai is about INR 13,000 to 25,000 per month.

 

2. SEO Salary in Delhi

seo salary in india - Image of SEO executive salaries in Delhi

Source: Glassdoor

The average SEO executive salary in Delhi is about INR 15,000 to 25,000 per month.

 

3. SEO Salary in Bangalore

seo salary in india - seo executive salaries in bangalore

Source: Glassdoor

The average SEO executive salary in Bangalore ranges from approximately INR 15,000 to 25,000 per month. However, this figure can vary based on factors like experience, skills, and the specific company.

If you’re considering a career in SEO and want to maximise your earning potential, enrolling in one of the leading digital marketing courses in Bangalore can give you a significant advantage.

These courses provide valuable training, industry-recognised certifications, and often placement assistance, setting you up for a successful career in this growing field.

 

4. SEO Salary in Ahmedabad

seo salary in india - seo executive salary in ahmedad

Source: Glassdoor

The average monthly SEO salary in India for freshers/executives in Ahmedabad ranges from INR 13,000 to 26,000. To maximise your earning potential in this field, consider enrolling in a comprehensive SEO or digital marketing course.

These programmes introduce you to the fundamentals of search engine optimisation and equip you with advanced strategies to enhance website visibility, drive traffic, and improve search rankings—skills highly valued by employers.

 

5. SEO Salary in Pune

seo salary in india - SEO executive salary in Pune

Source: Glassdoor

The average SEO salary in India per month for an executive or fresher in Pune is about INR 12,000 – INR 21,000

PS: Want to know how SEO works in the real world? Take a look at our digital marketing case studies, such as the marketing strategy of Dunkin Donuts, to see how top brands successfully engage their audiences.

 

SEO Salary – Based on International Locations

According to Glassdoor, here’s a recent update on SEO salaries in India.

1. SEO Salary in Dubai, UAE

seo salary in india - seo specialist salaries in dubai

Source: Glassdoor

There has been a rise in demand for SEO jobs in the UAE, especially in cities such as Dubai. The average pay package for a fresher is AED 4,000 – 8,000 per month.

Interested and want to learn the ins and outs of this field quickly? Short-term digital marketing courses are designed to help you gain the essential skills required to build a successful career without the additional stress of lengthy commitments. Check them out now!

 

2. SEO Salary in London, UK

seo salary in india - seo specialist salaries in London, UK

Source: Glassdoor

The UK offers a wealth of opportunities for SEO specialists, with competitive salaries even for those just starting out. If you’re a fresher, the average SEO salary ranges between £28,000 and £45,000 per year, reflecting the strong demand for skilled professionals in the field.

This salary range highlights the promising earning potential for newcomers looking to build a successful career in SEO.

P.S. Want to stand out in the digital marketing industry? Our free LinkedIn course will enhance your LinkedIn profile and expand your professional network.

You’ll learn how to create a compelling LinkedIn profile, optimise your personal brand, and connect with industry leaders—all essential for boosting your career in digital marketing!

 

3. SEO Salary in the USA

seo salary in india - SEO Specialist Salary in USA

Source: Glassdoor

The SEO executive salary in the USA is approximately $47,000 to $86,000 per year, reflecting strong career prospects in the field of SEO.

 

4. SEO Salary in Canada

seo salary in India - SEO Specialist Salaries in Canada

Source: Glassdoor

Canada is booming with a high demand for SEO professionals. The average base pay for SEO executives in Canada is about CA$ 45,000 to CA$ 66,000 per year.

Do you find this article insightful? Explore some digital marketing blogs for more tips and resources to boost your knowledge!

 

Why Choose SEO as a Career?

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is a critical aspect of digital marketing, focusing on improving a website’s ranking on search engines like Google.

As businesses continue to expand their online presence, the demand for SEO professionals has increased significantly, making it a promising career choice.

The scope of SEO as a profession is vast, and it offers numerous career opportunities with competitive salary prospects.

1. High Demand and Career Growth

With India’s booming digital economy, there has been an increasing demand for skilled SEO professionals. The role of SEO specialists is highly valued, and companies are constantly seeking experts who can enhance their digital presence.

This growing demand translates into more job openings and higher SEO salaries in India.

As the SEO salary for freshers in India starts from ₹2-4 lakhs annually, experienced professionals can earn significantly more. With continuous growth in the digital space, the demand for SEO professionals will keep rising, offering long-term career stability.

2. Competitive Salary Potential

As SEO continues to be one of the most in-demand skills in digital marketing, SEO professionals are compensated accordingly.

An SEO specialist’s salary in India varies depending on expertise and experience, but senior-level roles can fetch anywhere between ₹2.4 to ₹4.6 lakhs annually.

According to the industry trend, the SEO salary in India is highly competitive compared to other marketing roles.

3. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

SEO roles are not bound by a traditional office setup. Many SEO jobs allow for remote work or flexible hours, making it an attractive career option for those seeking work-life balance.

As a result, professionals in SEO have more control over their work schedules, contributing to higher job satisfaction. This flexibility makes SEO jobs appealing to a broad range of individuals.

4. Continuous Learning and Skill Development

SEO’s ever-changing nature, driven by frequent algorithm updates, requires continuous learning and makes it an intellectually stimulating career. Professionals can pursue further growth through digital marketing courses, even after an MBA, or by obtaining advanced SEO certifications.

5. Opportunities for Freelancing and Entrepreneurship

The high demand for SEO expertise creates numerous opportunities for freelancing and entrepreneurship. Businesses of all sizes require SEO services, making starting your own agency or freelancing a potentially lucrative career path.

This flexibility allows professionals to set their own rates, select their clients, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

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To Conclude

With the growing demand for SEO professionals in India, the future of SEO is very bright.

Freshers can expect an SEO salary in India of about INR 2.25 lakh per annum, while mid-level professionals earn between INR 3-7 lakh. Experienced professionals, depending on their previous work experience, company, and location, can make around INR 15-30 lakh per annum.

If you’re already an SEO professional and wish to upskill and expand your knowledge of digital marketing, our post-graduation in digital marketing programme is an ideal choice.

With assured placements, this course can help you climb up the ladder, refine your managerial skills, and enhance your digital marketing expertise.

One of the perks of learning digital marketing today is you can find a good digital marketing course regardless of where you live.

If you want us to cover the SEO salary in India for freshers in your location or provide specific details about job or specialist salaries in India, let us know in the comments below.

Now that we have explored the SEO salary in India per month and international statistics for various designations, including the SEO executive salary in India and SEO expert salary, here are some commonly asked questions you should read.

FAQs About SEO Salary in India

Q1. Does SEO have a promising future in India?

Yes, the scope of SEO in India is exceptionally bright and is expected to continue growing. As more businesses go online, the demand for SEO professionals will increase. You can find opportunities in various settings such as in-house roles, freelancing, or even running your own SEO business. The number of SEO job opportunities has been steadily rising, and this trend is likely to continue in the coming years.

Q2. Do SEO jobs pay well?

Indeed, SEO jobs offer attractive salaries. For entry-level roles, such as an SEO Executive, the salary typically ranges from INR 2-4 lakh per annum. As you gain experience, the pay rises. For more experienced roles, such as an SEO Specialist, the salary can range from INR 6-12 lakh per year, with opportunities to earn more depending on the company, expertise, and location.

Q3. What is the highest SEO salary in India?

The highest SEO salary for professionals with 5-10 years of experience can range from INR 15-30 lakh per annum or more. Senior roles such as SEO Managers or SEO Directors can earn even higher salaries depending on the size and nature of the company, as well as the individual’s skill set and expertise.

Q4. What is the SEO salary per hour in India?

The average SEO salary in India per hour varies by experience and role. For instance, freshers can expect to earn an average annual salary of INR 2.75 lakh. On an hourly basis, SEO professionals typically earn around INR 250 per hour. More experienced professionals can earn up to INR 11,00,000 annually, with the hourly wage potentially increasing with expertise.

Q5. Will SEO still be relevant in 5 years?

Yes, SEO will remain highly relevant in the next five years. As long as search engines are an integral part of the digital world, optimising websites and content for visibility will be crucial. The evolution of SEO techniques and tools will continue, ensuring that SEO remains a vital aspect of digital marketing strategies.

Q6. What factors influence the SEO salary in India?

The salary for SEO professionals in India depends on various factors such as experience, skill level, location, and the size of the company. Freshers can expect an SEO salary for freshers in the range of INR 2-4 lakh per annum. However, SEO professionals with advanced expertise in areas such as SEO analytics, content optimisation, and technical SEO can expect higher salaries.

Q7. Is there a difference in SEO salaries based on job roles?

Yes, there is a significant difference in salaries based on job roles. For example, an SEO Executive typically earns a starting salary of INR 2-4 lakh per annum, while an SEO Specialist can earn INR 6-12 lakh per year depending on experience. Senior roles such as SEO Managers or SEO Directors earn considerably higher salaries, which can range from INR 12 lakh to 30 lakh annually, depending on their experience and expertise in the field.

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Karan Shah

Founder and CEO at IIDE

He is a passionate public speaker and teacher for over 10 years. He has trained over 60,000+ students and 25+ corporates in Digital Marketing via online and offline channels. He is a Harvard alumnus specialising in E-commerce......[Read full bio]

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