How Much Do Media Buyers Make in 2026?
A media buyer is a specialist in media advertising who purchases and places advertising formats on various platforms. Their task is to ensure maximum efficiency of advertising campaigns at optimal cost. The professionalism and performance of a media buyer largely determines the success of the advertiser.
Average Media Buyer Salary in 2026
According to analytical agencies, in 2026 the average salary of a media buyer in Russia will be in the range of 80,000 to 150,000 rubles per month. The specific income level will depend on several factors:
Experience and Qualifications
Beginning specialists with minimal work experience (up to 1 year) on average receive 80,000 - 100,000 rubles. Media buyers with an average level of qualification (1-3 years) earn 100,000 - 130,000 rubles. Experienced professionals (from 3 years) can expect 120,000 - 150,000 rubles per month.
Industry and Specialization
The salary of a media buyer in large advertising agencies working with FMCG, e-commerce and financial markets is usually higher than in small local agencies. Also, specialists working with targeted advertising on social networks, mobile apps and video advertising are paid higher.
Region and Company Size
Media buyers working in large million-plus cities (Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg) on average receive 20-30% more than their colleagues in the regions. At the same time, specialists in international holdings and large media holdings traditionally earn more than in regional companies.
Actual Vacancies and Salaries
Let's consider a few current vacancies for media buyers in 2026:
- We are launching a mini-app for arbitrageurs and marketers (salary not specified)
- We are launching a mini-app for arbitrageurs and marketers (salary not specified)
- Middle/Senior Media Buyer (FB | iGaming) (salary not specified)
- MEDIA BUYER GAMBLING UAC | IN-APP Moloco ($800-800)
- Team Lead UAC (Gambling | Remote) (salary not specified)
As we can see, the level of pay varies greatly depending on the required qualifications, experience and specialization. Middle and senior level candidates usually receive from 120,000 to 150,000 rubles per month. In some high-income niches like gambling, rates can reach 200,000 rubles for top specialists.
Conclusion
So, the average media buyer salary in 2026 will be in the range of 80,000 - 150,000 rubles per month. The income amount will be determined by the level of qualifications, industry specialization, region of work and company size. The best paid are experienced specialists in large advertising agencies and media holdings working in high-margin markets like gambling.