Each day, approximately 360,000 pedestrians venture into the heart of Times Square. At just about every hour of the day (and night) and every day of the year, the iconic NYC destination is full of movement. It’s no wonder why brands all over the world are curious about how much a billboard in Times Square costs.
No matter what your company offers, there’s a place for you among the dozens of available boards. From 9,300 square foot digital boards to “smaller” static placements, you’ll have no shortage of options to choose from. Just make sure you book well in advance!
We have first-hand experience launching Times Square billboard campaigns and want to share some insights into costs and other factors. When you’re ready to advertise in NYC, give us a call.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Times Square billboard cost factors
- Times Square advertising costs
- How do I launch an NYC campaign?
- Real-world example: vegan cheese in Times Square
Times Square Billboard Cost Factors
The factors that influence the cost of a Times Square board are similar to those that dictate costs everywhere else. There are a couple elements that differentiate Times Square from other areas. Here’s what to consider:
Location within Times Square
Times Square isn’t a homogeneous space; rather, it’s a vibrant tapestry of different advertising opportunities. Billboards located in high-traffic areas with optimal visibility command premium prices. Factors such as proximity to landmark attractions, pedestrian footfall, and vehicular traffic flow heavily influence the cost.
Size and Type of Billboard
Times Square offers a diverse array of billboard options, ranging from towering LED screens to traditional static displays. Naturally, larger and more technologically advanced billboards come with higher price tags. The size of the billboard and its format, whether digital or static, significantly impact the overall cost.
Campaign Duration
The duration for a billboard campaign plays a role in pricing. Generally, longer-term commitments secure more favorable rates compared to short-term rentals. Advertisers looking to make a lasting impression often opt for extended contracts, which can result in better deals.
Time of Day and Seasonal Variations
Times Square experiences ebbs and flows in foot traffic and visibility throughout the day and across different seasons. Prime advertising slots during peak hours, such as evenings and weekends, command higher rates. Additionally, events and holidays may influence pricing, with demand spiking during peak tourist seasons.
Demand and Competition
Times Square is a highly sought-after advertising space, attracting both national and international brands vying for consumer attention. As such, demand-driven fluctuations in pricing are common, especially during high-profile events, product launches, or cultural moments.
Production and Installation Costs
Beyond the rental fee, advertisers must account for additional expenses related to producing and installing the ad creative. Factors such as the complexity of the design, technology integration, and logistical challenges can impact overall costs.
Times Square Advertising Costs
Now that you have a better sense of what factors play into the cost of a billboard in Times Square, let’s get into some numbers. Keep in mind that prices rise and fall on a regular basis so the numbers below may be accurate today, but outdated tomorrow.
Note that the following prices may not reflect additional fees and are for educational purposes. Get in touch with us to learn more about NYC billboard pricing and our available inventory.
This static bulletin (framed in yellow for emphasis) measures 26′ x 24′. For a four-week period, this bulletin costs around $11,000. It’s illuminated by upward-facing spotlights at the base of the board so you can ensure that it’s visible all day and night.
This vertically-oriented digital board located in the heart of Times Square measures 55′ x 31′. It offers advertisers an 8 second spot and circulates through 8 different advertisers. It has great visibility from the Broadway Pedestrian Plaza providing the opportunity for people to connect for extended periods of time. It costs around $27,000 per four-week period.
This centrally located bulletin measures 30′ x 25′. As with almost all static bulletins in Times Square, it’s illuminated by spotlights from below, meaning that it’s visible 24/7. This board will cost around $25,000 per four-week period.
Bonus! NYC is known for its robust public transit system. That gives advertisers even more opportunities to reach diverse audiences. Alluvit Media also offers subway placements like the one below.
This is one example of an NYC subway digital advertisement. For around $37,000 per 4 week period, advertisers can occupy a 15 second spot amidst a 180 second loop. This specific placement allows for full motion video across 44 total screens, arranged in scapes of 11 in a high-traffic corridor.
How Do I Launch an NYC Billboard Campaign?
Whether you decide to launch a billboard campaign in Times Square or anywhere else in NYC, we’ve got you covered. It’s easy to kick off the process with Alluvit Media by filling out a brief online form. Here’s what the general process will look like:
- Use the form to share a bit more about your campaign like the purpose, desired start date, and estimated budget.
- Get connected with a dedicated media coordinator who will help you throughout your campaign
- Receive a custom, interactive proposal with ad placements in your target area
- Choose the option(s) that is best-suited for your goals
- Prepare your ad creative or solicit the help of an Alluvit Media graphic designer at no additional cost
- Await launch day!
Real-World Example: Vegan Cheese in Times Square
As mentioned, we’ve helped numerous brands launch campaigns in NYC. Recently, we partnered with the vegan cheese brand Armored Fresh to launch a mouth-watering campaign in the heart of Times Square. Check it out below:
