Uncover the Average Cost of TV Commercial Production in 2025
When businesses start looking into advertising, one of the first questions is: what is the average cost of a TV commercial production? In New England, prices can vary widely depending on length, talent, locations, and add-ons. Understanding each line item can help you budget effectively and avoid surprises.
30 Second vs. 60 Second Pricing
The length of your spot is the first cost driver. A 30 second commercial is the industry standard and often more budget friendly. Producing a 60 second ad requires more shooting time, more editing, and often higher media costs for airtime. In New England, a 30 second commercial might run anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on production values, while a 60 second spot could double that.
Creative vs. Production vs. Media Costs
Commercials aren’t just about shooting video. The budget breaks down into three buckets:
- Creative Development: Scriptwriting, storyboarding, and concept design. Costs range from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on complexity.
- Production: Camera, crew, lighting, sound, set design, and talent. This is usually the largest portion, anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000.
- Media Buy: Airtime costs are separate from production. A regional 30 second air slot can cost as little as $200 during off-peak hours, while prime time slots on major New England networks can hit thousands per airing.
Union vs. Non-Union Talent
Talent fees vary based on whether you use union or non-union actors. Union talent ensures professionalism and experience but comes with set rates and usage fees. A union actor may cost $500 to $1,000 per day plus residuals, while non-union talent may cost significantly less. However, using union talent can add credibility and polish to your commercial.
Permits and Location Fees
Filming a commercial in Boston, Providence, or Portland often requires permits, which can run from $100 to $1,000 depending on the city. Popular or exclusive locations may also charge usage fees ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Indoor studio rentals in New England typically cost $500 to $2,000 per day.
Post-Production Add-Ons
Editing is another critical cost driver. A basic edit may cost $1,500 to $3,000, but add-ons like motion graphics, animation, voiceovers, and licensed music can push post-production costs into the $10,000+ range. Color grading and sound design also elevate the finished product and influence pricing.
Cost Saver Tips
- Stay concise: Stick to a 30 second spot unless absolutely necessary.
- Use local talent: Non-union actors and regional crews can be more affordable.
- Leverage in-house assets: Logos, stock footage, or previously shot material can reduce production days.
- Plan ahead: Last minute changes drive up the average cost of TV commercial production.
- Bundle projects: Filming multiple commercials in the same session often reduces per spot costs.
The Bottom Line: Average Cost of TV Commercial Production
So what is the average cost of TV commercial production in New England? Most small to mid-sized businesses should budget between $7,500 and $25,000 for a 30 second spot, not including media buys. High end productions for regional or national campaigns can climb well above $100,000.
Working with an experienced TV commercial production company ensures your money is well spent. At LiFi Media Production, we break down every dollar into a clear line-item budget so you know exactly what you’re paying for: creative, production, and media. That transparency helps you plan smarter and get the most impact from your investment.
