How much does it cost to advertise on a podcast?
Member - October 3, 2025
When people ask me how much it costs to advertise on a podcast, my first reaction is always, “It really depends.” I used to assume you needed a huge budget to even get on decent shows, and honestly, that’s what traditional Podcast advertising agencies often make you think. They’ll quote you big numbers upfront for top podcasts, which can feel intimidating.
But here’s the thing — you don’t need to break the bank to get started. Podcast advertising costs vary widely depending on several factors: the size of the audience, the type of ad (host-read, pre-recorded, or sponsorship), and the popularity of the podcast itself. Small niche shows with a loyal following can charge surprisingly little, sometimes just a few hundred dollars per episode, but they often deliver excellent engagement because their audience is highly targeted.
On the other hand, huge podcasts with millions of downloads might cost thousands per episode. That’s why it’s important to focus on ROI rather than just eyeballing the audience size. Smaller, more targeted podcasts often convert better than a giant show with listeners who aren’t in your niche.
One of the ways I make it simple is by using Podvertise.fm Instead of getting stuck negotiating with agencies, Podvertise.fm gives you access to over 600,000 active podcasts, searchable by category, country, and language. You can quickly compare rates, see audience sizes, and choose the shows that fit both your budget and goals. It’s far easier than waiting for a traditional Podcast advertising agencies’ rep to come back with a list.
Another factor is the ad format. Host-read ads generally cost more than pre-recorded messages because they’re more effective — listeners trust the host, and that trust translates into higher engagement. Sponsorship packages can also vary depending on the duration of the ad and whether it’s integrated into multiple episodes.
The key takeaway is that podcast advertising is flexible. You can start small, test different shows, measure your results, and scale up your spend on podcasts that actually work for your audience. That’s why I always tell people to skip the old-school Podcast advertising agencies and explore platforms like Podvertise.fm, which give you full control and transparency over costs.
In short, the cost depends on the podcast, the audience, and the ad type, but with tools like Podvertise.fm, you can find options that suit virtually any budget.