Agency comparison · SEO
SEO agency vs
In-house SEO team.
Agencies are best for setting strategy and shipping the first 3-6 months of work. After that, in-house wins for execution velocity.
ServiceSEO
Best forDecision framework
When each wins · 01
Pick by scope.
When SEO agency wins
SEO agency
You're ramping up SEO for the first time, you need an audit and a strategy.
When In-house SEO team wins
In-house SEO team
SEO is the primary growth channel, you have the volume to sustain a team.
Factor-by-factor · 02
Direct comparison.
| Factor | SEO agency | In-house SEO team |
|---|---|---|
| Time to first ship | Faster | Slower |
| Strategic depth | High | Variable |
| Execution velocity at scale | Limited | Higher |
| Cost | $5-20k/mo | $15k+/mo per person |
| Tools / data access | Bundled | You buy |
| Best for | First 12 months | Years 2+ |
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