Top Advertising Agencies in Chicago
Chicago’s creative scene runs from the storied “Madison Avenue-of-the-Midwest” on Michigan Avenue to the fast-growing startup blocks of Fulton Market. Whether you’re a Fortune 500 brand in the Loop or a SaaS newcomer in 1871, partnering with a Chicago advertising agency can amplify your reach across the city’s deep media, sports, and retail ecosystems.
Clutch makes the search simple: every profile here includes in-depth client reviews, service focus data, and verified work samples. Use our filters to narrow agencies by hourly rate, project budget, industry expertise, or neighborhood—then connect directly with teams that fit your goals.
Looking beyond Chicago? Explore the broader list of Top Advertising Companies, compare creative talent in nearby Milwaukee agencies, or view specialized Chicago healthcare advertising agencies for regulated markets.
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Featured
What are Featured Providers?
$1,000+$100 - $149 / hr250 - 999Serves Chicago, ILServices provided
See all 357 projectsSmartSites is a renowned advertising agency specializing in paid media and digital marketing strategies, consistently praised for its effectiveness in improving online visibility and lead generation. With a 100% positive feedback rate, clients commend their expertise, communication, and timely delivery. Notably, 80% of reviewers highlight their exceptional project management and responsiveness. This makes SmartSites a preferred choice for businesses seeking professional advertising services.
$1,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Serves Chicago, ILServices provided
See all 339 projectsJives Media is an advertising agency offering advertising services, with a focus on SEO, PPC, and paid marketing. The reviews indicate a generally positive sentiment, with approximately 86% of clients highlighting effective project management, timely deliverables, and improved campaign performance. A noteworthy 14% of reviews expressed dissatisfaction with communication and strategy alignment. The company is praised for its expertise and seamless integration with client teams.
$50,000+$150 - $199 / hr10 - 49Serves Chicago, ILServices provided
See all 16 projectsHotspex Media is an Advertising Agency specializing in digital and traditional media services, including Media Buying and Paid Marketing. The company has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with reviewers praising their project management and audience insights, as well as their ability to meet budgets and deadlines. Approximately 90% of reviewers highlight their expertise in delivering targeted and effective advertising campaigns.
$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Serves Chicago, ILServices provided
See all 21 projectsCorkboard Concepts is an advertising agency providing services in digital marketing, PPC advertising, and SEO. They have consistently received positive feedback, with 100% of reviewers praising their project management, customer service, and local presence. Clients value their personable approach and ability to generate website traffic and leads, despite being a relatively young company.
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$5,000+$150 - $199 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
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See all 30 projectsAccelerated Digital Media is an advertising agency specializing in paid media and marketing services. The company consistently receives positive feedback, with clients praising their exceptional project management, creative guidance, and effective campaign execution. Approximately 100% of reviewers commend their professionalism and timely delivery, highlighting their ability to reduce costs and drive substantial growth for clients.
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$1,000+$150 - $199 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 30 projectsYB Marketing is an advertising agency specializing in paid advertising, media buying, branding, and marketing strategy. Overall, 100% of the feedback is positive, highlighting their excellent communication, responsive project management, and strategic expertise. Approximately 80% of reviewers emphasize their ability to deliver on time and adapt to client needs, showcasing their professionalism and collaborative approach.
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$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
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See all 67 projectsComrade Digital Marketing Agency is a versatile advertising agency specializing in digital marketing services such as SEO, PPC, and brand recognition. Reviews indicate that they effectively deliver on objectives, with 100% of reviews highlighting their positive communication and responsiveness. However, some clients noted inconsistencies in service delivery timelines and a desire for more creativity in planning.
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$100,000+$200 - $300 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
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See all 4 projectsVSA Partners is an advertising agency specializing in branding, marketing, and promotional services. The agency is praised for its strategic capability and understanding of brand messaging, with 100% of reviewers noting their effective brand storytelling. However, some challenges in web design were reported. The agency's project management and alignment with company values are noted as strengths.
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$1,000+$50 - $99 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
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See all 62 projectsINSIDEA is a versatile marketing and advertising agency specializing in paid marketing, advertising services, and local SEO optimization. With a high satisfaction rate, nearly all reviewers commend their responsiveness, reliability, and tailored approach. The agency is praised for delivering on time and generating significant results, such as increased leads and improved online visibility, despite occasional language barriers.
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$25,000+$100 - $149 / hr1,000 - 9,999Chicago, IL
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See all 8 projectsPropelis is an advertising agency specializing in creating innovative and engaging advertising services, including high-end webinar productions. Reviews indicate a strong emphasis on creativity and effective project management, with positive feedback from 100% of reviewers highlighting their disciplined oversight and high-quality outputs within budget constraints. Opportunities for further interactivity could enhance their offerings.
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$25,000+$150 - $199 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
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See all 15 projectsSimple Truth is an advertising agency specializing in branding, marketing, and creative solutions. With a reputation for responsiveness and delivering quality results, 100% of reviewers commend their strategic and creative expertise. Their collaborative approach and effective project management are consistently praised, making them a trusted partner for diverse marketing needs.
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$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 5 projectsA Willing Participant, Inc. is an advertising agency specializing in creative strategies, branding, and direct marketing services. With 100% positive feedback, clients commend their expertise in direct marketing, strong project management, and ability to deliver consumer-friendly content swiftly and accurately. Their impactful branding solutions have been praised for enduring success and compliance, especially during startup phases.
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$10,000+$50 - $99 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
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See all 6 projectsFervor Seo LLC is an SEO agency known for delivering strategic marketing solutions, including lead generation, SEO, and content marketing. The company has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with clients praising their attentiveness, clear communication, and effective project management. Approximately 100% of reviewers appreciate their personalized service and timely delivery. Clients commend the agency's CEO for being accessible and hands-on, consistently exceeding expectations.
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$25,000+Undisclosed2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 9 projectsBandwidth Marketing Group is a creative advertising agency specializing in branding, media buying, and marketing services. Clients commend their innovative concepts and hands-on approach, with 100% of reviewers noting their impressive creativity and strategic execution. The agency is praised for its ability to deliver impactful promotions and campaigns, with multiple clients highlighting their strong project management skills and commitment to client success.
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$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Lombard, IL
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See all 6 projectsStevens & Tate Marketing is a well-regarded advertising agency specializing in advertising services, media buying, and marketing promotions. They have earned 100% positive feedback, with clients praising their professional project management, high-quality work, and effective communication. Both client reviews highlight their ability to deliver impactful ad campaigns and foster significant customer engagement.
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$5,000+$150 - $199 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 4 projectsPopskull is a dynamic advertising agency specializing in creative marketing and promotional campaigns, particularly in media buying and branding. Client feedback highlights their exceptional project management, resulting in a 39.2% view-through rate and 90.5% purchase consideration. Clients commend their organizational skills, timely communication, and ability to exceed expectations, with 100% positive reviews emphasizing their strategic and creative expertise.
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$75,000+$200 - $300 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 3 projectsPLAYBOOK STUDIO is a branding and communications agency, renowned for its expertise in brand strategy, identity, and execution. Clients consistently praise their project management, responsiveness, and ability to align diverse stakeholder opinions, with 100% of reviews highlighting their impressive leadership and intelligence. Their work frequently results in effective brand transformations that enhance reach and engagement.
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$5,000+$150 - $199 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 17 projectsKillian Branding is an advertising agency specializing in branding, marketing, and media promotions. With a track record of enhancing brand identity and advertising strategies, they are noted for increasing website click-through rates by 60% and delivering consistent messaging. All reviewers commend their project management and adaptability, with no significant areas for improvement mentioned.
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$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 7 projectsStrike 2 is a dynamic branding and digital marketing agency offering services such as brand identity development, web design, and digital marketing strategies. Across numerous reviews, clients commend their impressive creativity, effective project management, and strong client collaboration. Of the feedback provided, 100% highlight their innovative solutions and quick responsiveness, with many noting their ability to work within tight budgets and timeframes.
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$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
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See all 3 projectsHANGAR12 is a versatile advertising agency specializing in Marketing, Promotions, Media Buying, and Branding, providing customized Advertising Services for clients. Garnering nearly 100% positive reviews, clients consistently praise their strategic approach, adaptability to budget changes, and comprehensive support. Their creativity and ability to manage both large and small-scale projects effectively have been highlighted as key strengths across all feedback.
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$10,000+Undisclosed2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 6 projectsC2 Creative Studio is a design and branding firm specializing in creating engaging brand identities, websites, and marketing materials. Across their reviews, clients consistently praise their strategic insight, responsiveness, and ability to deliver high-quality, visually impactful work. Notably, 100% of reviewers highlight their impressive project management and seamless workflow integration, making them a trusted partner in achieving clients' branding and marketing objectives.
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UndisclosedUndisclosed10 - 49Chicago, IL
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See all 1 projectsThe Well Advertising is a digital marketing and web solutions company, known for their expertise in URL mapping, rebranding, and technical execution. They maintain high client satisfaction, with 100% of reviews highlighting their excellent project management and responsiveness. Clients appreciate their ability to deliver precise solutions and maintain SEO value.
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$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
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See all 15 projectsJumpSeat is an advertising agency specializing in marketing and promotions, with expertise in B2B advertising services. The company receives 100% positive feedback, with clients praising their excellent project management and collaborative approach. Reviewers unanimously highlight JumpSeat's ability to exceed expectations and effectively address complex marketing challenges.
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$5,000+$200 - $300 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 5 projectsMatchnode is an advertising agency specializing in digital marketing and paid media strategies. The company excels in converting online leads to brick-and-mortar customers, with 100% of reviews highlighting their effective Facebook advertising and email marketing campaigns. Clients commend their responsiveness and ability to understand unique business needs, noting positive outcomes such as increased customer traffic and improved ROI.
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$10,000+$150 - $199 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
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See all 2 projectsPivot Design is an advertising agency specializing in branding, digital marketing, and patient-level marketing, especially within the biotech and rare diseases sectors. The reviews indicate a high level of satisfaction with their creativity and agility, with approximately 100% of reviewers highlighting their cutting-edge content and effective communication strategies. Their collaborative, flat organizational structure fosters innovation and swift execution, though minor operational improvements are noted.
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$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 2 projectsCooperate Marketing is a company specializing in co-op management platform solutions and advertising claim processing. As evidenced by customer reviews, they consistently deliver seamless, user-friendly systems and maintain efficient workflows with 100% positive feedback on their accessibility and detailed attention to client needs. Notably, 90% of reviewers highlight their problem-solving abilities and effective communication.
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$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
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See all 2 projectsManifest is a content marketing agency known for its expertise in digital and print content strategy, particularly in the healthcare and association management sectors. Reviews highlight their exceptional project management and innovative approach, with a 100% satisfaction rate regarding their partnership and delivery. Clients appreciate their creativity, consistent results, and the ability to adapt to organizational needs.
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UndisclosedUndisclosed2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 1 projectsBRAND33 is a creative agency specializing in developing impactful campaigns and brand platforms for both B2B and B2C markets. Feedback highlights their strategic insight and creative excellence, with 100% of reviewers noting their impressive ability to engage target audiences effectively. Their project management and communication are highly praised, with no areas for improvement mentioned.
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$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
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Point B Communications is a marketing and advertising agency specializing in community exposure, website development, branding, and lead generation. Reviews highlight their exceptional project management, timely delivery, and dedication to client success. Impressively, they generated a 40% growth in occupancy for their client, with 100% of reviewers praising their commitment to project goals.
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$25,000+Undisclosed10 - 49Downers Grove, IL
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See all 3 projectsLever is a digital marketing firm specializing in SEO, PPC, and social media management. The company has garnered positive feedback for its professionalism, responsiveness, and strategic collaboration, with 100% of reviewers noting increased customer engagement and satisfaction. Clients appreciate their attention to detail and project management, though some desire greater creative input. Overall, Lever demonstrates consistent performance and a client-focused approach.
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$10,000+$150 - $199 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
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See all 14 projectsJV Studios is a professional advertising agency specializing in video and photography capture for brand marketers. Reviewers consistently praise their reliability and communication, with 100% noting the exceptional quality of their work. Clients highlight the agency's ability to create impactful visual brand experiences, making them a preferred partner for media capture projects.
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$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 5 projectsSparkfactor is an advertising agency specializing in marketing and advertising services, with a strong focus on implementing backend systems like HubSpot. Client reviews highlight their reliable project management, noting that assignments are completed on time and within budget. Approximately 100% of reviewers appreciate their steady improvement in organic search and social media presence, underscoring their effectiveness in enhancing client communications.
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$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
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See all 1 projectsDigital Destination is an Advertising Agency specializing in Paid Media and Advertising Services, managing paid search on platforms like Google, Yahoo, and Bing. Clients highlight an effective workflow and commend the professionalism of the team, with 100% of reviewers appreciating the people involved. No areas for improvement were noted, showcasing their strong performance in delivering advertising services.
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$10,000+Undisclosed2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 4 projectsPink Hippo Productions is a versatile video production company known for providing high-quality production management and equipment rental services. Their adaptability and proactive problem-solving skills are consistently praised, with 100% of reviewers noting their smooth communication and flexibility in meeting project needs. Clients appreciate their ability to deliver projects efficiently while maintaining a collaborative and congenial working atmosphere.
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$1,000+$50 - $99 / hr2 - 9Skokie, IL
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See all 1 projectsMA Team Marketing Agency is a marketing firm specializing in website development and design. They have received positive feedback, with clients noting effective communication and impressive website outcomes, such as increased online appointment bookings. Their approach is described as easy-going and friendly, and their services are considered affordable by their clients. 100% of reviewers express satisfaction with no areas for improvement mentioned.
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Undisclosed$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
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See all 3 projectsGot IT Digital is a versatile web development company specializing in WordPress development and e-commerce projects. The company has consistently received positive feedback, with clients praising their communication, responsiveness, and ability to understand and fulfill project requirements. Approximately 100% of reviewers highlight their reliability and skillful execution in meeting project deadlines and enhancing user experience.
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$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 1 projectsZora Digital is a web development and digital marketing company known for its professional and collaborative approach. A significant 100% of reviewers express satisfaction with the firm's ability to effectively understand and meet client needs. Clients highlight their impressive project management skills and professional communication, with no notable areas for improvement mentioned.
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$1,000+$150 - $199 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 1 projectsGainTap is an SEO agency that focuses on enhancing website performance through strategic search engine optimization and problem-solving. The reviews highlight the company's responsiveness, with 100% of reviewers praising their adaptability and personalized service. Clients appreciate GainTap's effective communication and problem-solving skills, with particular commendation for their ability to handle complex website issues and deliver tailored solutions.
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$1,000+$25 - $49 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
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See all 15 projectsAmerican Publishings is a publishing and web services company that specializes in comprehensive book publishing, marketing, and website enhancement solutions. They consistently receive positive feedback, with over 90% of reviewers highlighting their professionalism, timely delivery, and personalized approach. Clients praise their ability to handle all aspects of publishing and web management efficiently, resulting in successful book launches and improved online presence.
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$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
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See all 5 projectsTheydo is a versatile design and development agency specializing in creating websites, mobile apps, and brand strategies. Reviews indicate a high satisfaction rate, with 100% of clients praising their innovative designs and effective project management. Clients frequently highlight Theydo's quick turnaround times, quality-to-speed ratio, and strong communication, while also appreciating their ability to adapt and meet a wide range of project needs.
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$100,000+$150 - $199 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
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Crue - Fintech Marketing Agency is a Chicago, Illinois-based Digital Strategy company. They specialize in Digital Strategy and Pay Per Click and were founded in 2002.
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$100,000+$100 - $149 / hr50 - 249Franklin Park, IL
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The Custom Boxes, an Advertising company, was established in 2010. The team focuses on Advertising and Market Research.
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UndisclosedUndisclosed250 - 999Chicago, IL
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Located in Chicago, Illinois and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Cramer-Krasselt is a midsize Advertising company. The team provides Advertising and Media Planning & Buying.
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UndisclosedUndisclosed250 - 999Chicago, IL
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TMA (The Marketing Arm) is an Advertising company. The Dallas, Texas-based company was founded in 1993. Their services include Advertising and Branding.
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UndisclosedUndisclosed250 - 999Chicago, IL
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Energy BBDO is an Advertising company. Their midsize team is based in Chicago, Illinois and São Paulo, Brazil. Their services include Advertising and Branding.
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$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
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Mekanism is an Advertising company. They were established in 2003 and provide Advertising and Video Production.
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$1,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
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ChicagoSEO.Company is an Advertising company founded in 2007. Their services include Advertising and Branding.
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UndisclosedUndisclosed250 - 999Chicago, IL
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Launched in 1999, Fusion92 is a media planning & buying company. The midsize team focuses on Media Planning & Buying and Advertising.
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$1,000+$100 - $149 / hr50 - 249Westchester, IL
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Launched in 2017, Promactive is an Advertising company. Their team focuses on Advertising and Digital Strategy.
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$10,000+$150 - $199 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
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Someoddpilot is a Chicago, Illinois-based branding company. The team focuses on Branding and Advertising.
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UndisclosedUndisclosed10 - 49Chicago, IL
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MBuy is a media planning and buying agency. The team focuses on Media Planning & Buying and Advertising and is in Chicago, Illinois.
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$5,000+$50 - $99 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
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Upshot is an Advertising company. Located in Chicago, Illinois, the team offers Advertising and Branding.
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$5,000+$150 - $199 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
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Midsize Advertising company CBD Marketing, is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. The team provides Advertising and Content Marketing.
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$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
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RPM Advertising is an Advertising company. They offer Advertising and Branding and were founded in 1994. The company is in Chicago, Illinois.
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List of the Top 15 Chicago Advertising & Marketing Agencies
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$25,000+$100 - $149 / hr1,000 - 9,999Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
30.7/40.016/20 Reviews10/10 Clients & Experience4.7/10 Market PresenceService focus
20% Advertising20% Marketing60% Other -
$100,000+$200 - $300 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
32.3/40.016.4/20 Reviews10/10 Clients & Experience5.9/10 Market PresenceService focus
20% Advertising40% Marketing40% Other -
$5,000+$150 - $199 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
34.6/40.019/20 Reviews10/10 Clients & Experience5.6/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising50% Marketing40% Other -
$1,000+$150 - $199 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
31.5/40.016.8/20 Reviews10/10 Clients & Experience4.8/10 Market PresenceService focus
15% Advertising65% Marketing20% Other -
$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
32.4/40.017.4/20 Reviews9.6/10 Clients & Experience5.4/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising35% Marketing55% Other -
$25,000+$150 - $199 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
30.5/40.015.8/20 Reviews10/10 Clients & Experience4.8/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising55% Marketing35% Other -
$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
27.8/40.016.2/20 Reviews7.2/10 Clients & Experience4.4/10 Market PresenceService focus
25% Advertising70% Marketing5% Other -
$10,000+$50 - $99 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
24.8/40.016/20 Reviews5.4/10 Clients & Experience3.4/10 Market PresenceService focus
65% Advertising35% Marketing -
$25,000+Undisclosed2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
30.4/40.015.8/20 Reviews9.2/10 Clients & Experience5.5/10 Market PresenceService focus
20% Advertising45% Marketing35% Other -
$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Lombard, IL
Ability to deliver
29.1/40.015.6/20 Reviews7.9/10 Clients & Experience5.6/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising50% Marketing40% Other -
$1,000+$50 - $99 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
31.3/40.020/20 Reviews5.7/10 Clients & Experience5.6/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising40% Marketing50% Other -
$5,000+$150 - $199 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
26.6/40.016.2/20 Reviews6.5/10 Clients & Experience3.9/10 Market PresenceService focus
40% Advertising50% Marketing10% Other -
$75,000+$200 - $300 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
30/40.015.6/20 Reviews9.7/10 Clients & Experience4.7/10 Market PresenceService focus
15% Advertising55% Marketing30% Other -
$5,000+$150 - $199 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
28.9/40.015.6/20 Reviews8.2/10 Clients & Experience5/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising55% Marketing35% Other -
$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
24/40.016.2/20 Reviews4.2/10 Clients & Experience3.7/10 Market PresenceService focus
34% Advertising66% Marketing -
$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
27.2/40.016.2/20 Reviews6.1/10 Clients & Experience4.9/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising70% Marketing20% Other -
$10,000+Undisclosed2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
28.6/40.015.8/20 Reviews8.2/10 Clients & Experience4.6/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising60% Marketing30% Other -
UndisclosedUndisclosed10 - 49Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
23.5/40.016.2/20 Reviews2.8/10 Clients & Experience4.6/10 Market PresenceService focus
20% Advertising80% Marketing -
$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
25.7/40.017.2/20 Reviews4.4/10 Clients & Experience4.1/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising55% Marketing35% Other -
$5,000+$200 - $300 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
29.4/40.015.8/20 Reviews8/10 Clients & Experience5.6/10 Market PresenceService focus
30% Advertising30% Marketing40% Other -
$10,000+$150 - $199 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
28.4/40.016.2/20 Reviews8.1/10 Clients & Experience4.1/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising45% Marketing45% Other -
$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
24.8/40.016.2/20 Reviews5.2/10 Clients & Experience3.4/10 Market PresenceService focus
20% Advertising40% Marketing40% Other -
$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr50 - 249Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
21.5/40.015.6/20 Reviews0/10 Clients & Experience5.9/10 Market PresenceService focus
15% Advertising35% Marketing50% Other -
UndisclosedUndisclosed2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
20.1/40.016.2/20 Reviews0/10 Clients & Experience3.9/10 Market PresenceService focus
25% Advertising75% Marketing -
$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
20.8/40.016.8/20 Reviews0/10 Clients & Experience4/10 Market PresenceService focus
25% Advertising45% Marketing30% Other -
$25,000+Undisclosed10 - 49Downers Grove, IL
Ability to deliver
20.1/40.014.6/20 Reviews0/10 Clients & Experience5.5/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising60% Marketing30% Other -
$10,000+$150 - $199 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
30.5/40.016.8/20 Reviews10/10 Clients & Experience3.7/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising10% Marketing80% Other -
$10,000+$100 - $149 / hr2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
25.2/40.013/20 Reviews7.9/10 Clients & Experience4.4/10 Market PresenceService focus
15% Advertising20% Marketing65% Other -
$5,000+$100 - $149 / hr10 - 49Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
20.8/40.016.2/20 Reviews0.7/10 Clients & Experience3.9/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising50% Marketing40% Other -
$10,000+Undisclosed2 - 9Chicago, IL
Ability to deliver
28.3/40.016.2/20 Reviews8.4/10 Clients & Experience3.7/10 Market PresenceService focus
10% Advertising10% Marketing80% Other
Chicago Advertising Agency FAQs
Local expertise is invaluable. Chicago-based advertising agencies understand Midwestern consumer values, seasonal sports spikes, and the city’s diverse neighborhood cultures—from the foodie crowd in West Loop to finance professionals in LaSalle Street. They also maintain relationships with area influencers, production houses, and media reps, giving your campaigns faster placement and authentic reach. If you need quick on-site shoots or real-time collaboration, a nearby team beats a remote partner every time.
Rates vary thanks to key variables like campaign timeline, scope of services, and agency reputation. Based on Clutch pricing data, clients can expect:
- Monthly retainer for projects like standard integrated branding and media management: $8,000 – $25,000
- Project-based campaign common for one-offs like product launches or rebrands: $15,000 – $100,000+
- Hourly consulting for strategy sessions and creative direction: $150 – $300/hr
Compared to New York or L.A., many marketing agencies in Chicago offer competitive pricing while maintaining big-market talent. Before committing to any partnership, make sure to request and review the quote for your project to ensure financial viability.
Thanks to Chicago’s dynamic and diverse economy, many local agencies work across a broad spectrum of markets, mainly:
- Food and beverage (home of Kraft Heinz, McDonald’s HQ)
- Healthcare and life sciences anchored by Northwestern Medicine
- Finance, insurance, and fintech along LaSalle Street
- Manufacturing and logistics tied to O’Hare’s transport hub
- Sports and entertainment—from the Bulls to Lollapalooza
Many boutique firms also specialize in niches like B2B SaaS, nonprofit outreach, or multicultural marketing.
- Define your project’s objectives and needs—brand awareness, lead gen, or omnichannel campaigns.
- Review Clutch profiles for relevant case studies and verified client feedback.
- Check service lines: Are they primarily an “ad agency in Chicago” or a “digital marketing in agency Chicago”? How is their track record with web, SEO, and PPC?
- Compare team size, preferred tools, and cultural fit during discovery calls.
- Use Clutch filters for budget, industry, and “Works with: Small Business” to shortlist 3–5 contenders.
Pro tip: Ask about local vendor partnerships (studios, printers) that can streamline production. While it’s not a major essential, having established partnerships can be a plus.
- Guaranteed results without data or testing plans
- Vague pricing or hidden mark-ups on media buys
- Limited understanding of Chicago’s regional media landscape
- High staff turnover—constant account manager changes can stall momentum
- One-size-fits-all proposals that ignore your industry or audience
If you notice any of these signs, keep searching—Clutch hosts hundreds of vetted options.