When it comes to pricing logo design in South Africa, most blogs will tell you it depends on:
- The designer’s experience
- The scope of work
- The client or business size
While these factors matter, there’s one crucial element that often gets overlooked, the economy. Many logo designers in South Africa charge below R1 000 not because they lack skill, but because market demand and affordability shape their pricing. After all, how can you charge R10 000+ for a logo if you can’t afford to invest R10 000+ in marketing your own services?
Here’s How South African Logo Designers Price Their Work and Why
The Case of Alfred and Sizwe, both have over 10 years of experience in logo design, but their approaches (and earnings) are vastly different.
Sizwe: The Strategic Designer
Sizwe realised early on that great design alone wasn’t enough to attract high-paying clients.
He invested in copywriting and digital marketing courses to improve his client acquisition skills.
Over time, he rebranded himself as a specialist in branding and marketing for healthcare practitioners.
Instead of just designing logos, he offers a full brand transformation, including:
- Brand strategy
- Visual identity development
- Marketing implementation
His clients see real business results, making his services more valuable.
His portfolio includes case studies and testimonials showcasing how his clients’ businesses have grown.
His pricing reflects his value, he doesn’t just sell a logo; he sells a business solution.
Alfred: The Traditional Designer
Alfred believes that the better his creative skills, the more clients he’ll attract.
He spends years refining his design abilities but neglects marketing and positioning.
He charges R600 per logo, so he gets plenty of clients.
But, he’s constantly working, undercharging, and struggling to grow his business.
His main challenge isn’t his portfolio or pricing, it’s that he doesn’t market himself effectively.
Unlike Sizwe, his approach is self-centered—focusing on his creative skills rather than delivering more value to his clients.
The Key Difference
Sizwe focuses on business results, while Alfred focuses on design skills.
Sizwe’s clients pay more because they get more than just a logo, they get a complete brand solution that helps them grow their business.
Another Perspective: Anna & Elsa
Not all designers price their work based on experience or skill, sometimes it’s about their personal goals.
Elsa: The Future Branding Agency Owner
Elsa is a freelance logo designer with a full-time job.
She wants to start her own branding agency, so she uses freelancing to build a portfolio of case studies.
She follows the same approach as her agency job, from strategy to visual identity.
She’s focused on long-term growth, not just quick money.
Anna: The Side Hustler
Anna is also a freelance logo designer, but her goal is different, she recently bought a car and needs to cover her R7 000 monthly installment.
She charges R700 per logo and often upsells a brand identity package for R1 400, helping her reach her goal quickly.
For Anna, pricing is about meeting her immediate financial needs, not business positioning.
What This Means for Logo Design Pricing
Different designers have different pricing strategies, depending on their skills, goals, and financial needs.
Affordable logo design pricing doesn’t always mean amateur work—some designers charge less due to their financial goals or market positioning.
The best way to choose a logo designer in South Africa?
Look at their work first, not just their price.
If you really like their work and your instinct tells you they going to deliver what you want hire them.
But if you feel they’re too pricey for the quality of their work, look elsewhere.
How to Get a Professional Logo Design in South Africa for a Reasonably Fair Price
When it comes to getting a logo for your business, you want to find the right balance between quality and price. The Logo Expert gives you that balance.
We’re transparent, you’ll know upfront if our prices are for you.
Click here to choose a logo design package and get started today.