How Much Does a Billboard Cost in Toronto (in 2024)?

Generated image of Toronto in a vibrant pink sunset
 

Toronto stands as a dynamic hub for both local and international audiences, making it a high volume foot traffic city, and an ideal location for billboard and Out-of-Home (OOH) advertising.

With its unique blend of global city energy and small-town charm, Toronto offers a variety of prime locations for impactful advertising that reaches diverse consumers, trendsetters, and tourists.

Prime Locations for Billboard Advertising

Toronto, being Canada's largest city, offers extensive advertising opportunities across various high-traffic areas. From luxury shopping districts near Bloor Street to large digital screens in bustling shopping centers and electronic billboards in the heart of downtown or Younge Dundas Square, the city's advertising spots are as varied as its population. Strategically placed ads on the high traffic areas, like the 401 highway or at Toronto International Airport, the nation’s busiest travel hub, ensure widespread visibility.

Top Locations for Billboard Advertising in Toronto 

Toronto is a haven for billboard advertising. Each part of town has its own advantages for targeting certain demographics of Torontonians and visitors. Without further ado, here is 10 places in Toronto to consider for billboard advertising, and we can help secure placement for you:

 
 

Yonge-Dundas Square: Often referred to as Toronto’s version of Times Square, this busy intersection is the perfect place for a large-scale digital billboard.  More than 56 million people visit there every year, which makes it one of the busiest intersection in Canada.

 

The Financial District: The headquarters of many large banks, and lots of other businesses, this is probably the best place to hit for professionals and business travellers.

Entertainment District: This district features theatres, concert venues, and cinemas, so it is a good place to target cultural enthusiasts and young adults.

Queen West: home to many independent art houses, cool shops, and the Fashion Design Centre at George Brown College, this neighbourhood appeals to a hip, younger audience.

Kensington Market: Perfect for the culturally curious and bohemians.

Harbourfront: An area for leisure and culture in which people from all over the world come to visit when they want to relax and appreciate nature and all the outdoor activities, such as events that are available.

 

Bloor-Yorkville: Known for luxury shopping and high-end restaurants, advertising here targets affluent consumers.

The Distillery District: With its arts, culture, and history, the Distillery District attracts those looking for some unique, pedestrian-friendly urbanism.

Toronto Pearson International Airport: Canada’s busiest airport, with an overwhelming number of international travellers and business people.

The PATH Network: a series of shops in an underground pedestrian walkway connecting many of Toronto’s downtown buildings, which provides easy access to commuters.

Every one of these positions has an advantage from the point of view of the target audience and the objective of the advertising campaign. In order to make the most of your advertising in Toronto, you have to pick the best spot for promotion.

Toronto's Demographics: A Diverse Audience

The city’s metropolitan area is home to a variety of neighborhoods, a robust international business community, top universities, and a rich cultural scene. This diversity of Toronto is reflected in the community of enthusiastic consumers proud of their city and eager to engage with new offerings.

Costs and Pricing for OOH Advertising in Toronto

Billboard advertising costs in Toronto vary based on size, location, and type, with options tailored to different budgets and campaign goals:

  • Large and medium bulletin billboards: $800 to $5,000

  • Digital billboards (large and medium): $1,000 to $7,000

  • Street furniture advertising: $500 to $5,500

Investing in OOH advertising in Toronto not only enhances brand visibility but also secures premium locations throughout the city.

 
2 sided billboard in Toromto
 
 

Factors Affecting the Cost of Billboard Advertising in Toronto

There are a number of things that can impact the price of billboard advertisements in Toronto. One of the most important factors is location. Billboards in high-traffic areas, such as downtown or along major highways, will generally be more expensive because they have higher visibility and a greater reach.

Size is important as well. Bigger billboards and digital billboards (which can have moving images displayed and therefore more dynamic content) will generally cost more. How long the campaign is also has a bearing; longer ad placements usually result in a higher cost, but there are also discounts available for longer bookings.

The visibility of the billboard and traffic around the area will be factored in, with billboards with high visibility commanding a higher price because of their greater potential to be ‘seen’ by many. Lastly, demand can have a bearing on the price of ad spaces in sought-after areas as well as during peak times, such as holidays or major local events.

Other costs include lighting, which not only requires more energy but also maintenance and, therefore, money. The cost of the production and installation of the billboard will also vary depending on the materials used and the complexity of the design.

Finally, regulatory and permit fees are also a factor when considering billboard advertising in Toronto. Familiarizing themselves with these elements would help in devising effective billboard campaigns as well as in planning and allocating budgets.

 
 
 
 

Starting Your OOH Advertising Campaign in Toronto

Our services simplify the advertising process, providing customized planning, design, and management to give you control over your brand at every touchpoint. Learn how to advertise effectively in Toronto and take your brand to new heights.

 

Considerations Before Investing in Billboard Advertising in Toronto

Before you place a billboard advertising campaign in Toronto, it’s important to consider some of the key factors that can help you determine if your billboard campaign is a good investment. First, where you place the billboard is important. It should be placed somewhere that is busy, but also somewhere that your target demographic regularly visits. Is the site commercial, residential or industrial? This can make a big difference in the success of your campaign.

The duration and timing of your advertisement are also very important, especially for ads that are meant to be coordinated with certain events or seasons. Budget is also a crucial factor. The costs can vary significantly, depending on the size of the billboard, the type of billboard and the location of the billboard. Digital billboards, although more expensive, provide the added feature of allowing dynamic advertisements that can potentially be very important for certain marketing strategies

When designing the ad, the content and design should be enticing, but clear enough for viewers to grasp in a few seconds. On top of this, you must also take into account the legal and regulatory framework of billboard advertising in Toronto (e.g., restrictions on size, lighting, digital displays, etc)

Here are a few more points to keep in mind:

  • Competitor Analysis: Learning what competitors are doing is sometimes a good way to get a dose of reality about what works and what doesn't in advertising.

  • Return on Investment (ROI): How does billboard advertising fit into your overall marketing objectives, and how does it stack up against other advertising options?

  • Reputation of Supplier and Contractor: Working with suppliers and contractors who have a good reputation will increase the chances of success of your campaign.

Then, also, consider, the fixed costs related to this kind of advertising campaign, such as the maintenance and longevity of the billboard so you can be sure that your advertisement remains sharp and effective for the duration of the run. All things considered, this should be the blueprint for a successful and memorable billboard advertising strategy in Toronto.

Need More Information?

For additional details, or to launch your campaign, contact us at Good Kids to elevate your brand's visibility in Toronto with strategic billboard and OOH advertising today.

Why Choose Good Kids?

Tap into our 15 years of expertise to strategically place your message where it can't be ignored. Whether you’re eyeing the bustling Dundas Square or a hidden gem location, we’ve got options for every budget. Don’t just advertise—captivate. Let’s create a show-stopping experience for your audience. Book a consultation today and let’s make some noise together! 🚀 #ComePlayWithUs

 
 

TORONTO BILLBOARD: RAPID FIRE FAQS

  • The cost of a billboard in Toronto can vary widely depending on the location, size, and duration of the advertisement. On average, prices can range from $1,500 to over $30,000 per month.

  • The cost to put up a billboard in Toronto typically falls within the same range as renting one—ranging from $1,500 and $30,000 per month depending on the complexity of work.

  • Getting a billboard can be worth it if your marketing strategy targets a large audience in a specific geographic area. It's particularly effective for increasing brand awareness and reaching commuters or city dwellers in high-traffic areas.

Sources Used for this Article:

https://www.collierscanada.com/en-ca/research/research-insights-foot-traffic
https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/99b4-TOHealthCheck_2019Chapter1.pdf
https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/these-are-toronto-s-10-most-congested-intersections-1.6233701
https://www.ydsquare.ca/data

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