Introduction
If you’re a business owner or marketer wondering whether it’s still worth running Google Ads in 2025, you’re not alone. With numerous changes in the digital marketing world, including new privacy laws, the rise of AI tools, and shifting user behavior, it’s fair to ask: Is Google Ads still a smart investment?
Let’s break it down in simple terms, look at what the data shows, and help you decide if Google Ads is still right for your business this year.
Google Ads: Still a Powerhouse
Google Ads remains one of the most widely used digital advertising platforms globally. In 2024, Google made over $237 billion from ad revenue, and most of that came from Google Search and YouTube ads (Source: Statista). That’s a strong sign that businesses are still
seeing value in it.
People still use Google to search for everything—products, services, reviews, and more. Every second, there are around 100,000 searches on Google. That’s a lot of potential customers looking for answers—and businesses willing to pay to appear in front of them.
Google Ads: Still a Powerhouse
That said, the cost of Google Ads has gone up. The average cost-per-click (CPC) in many industries increased by about 10–15% in 2024, according to various marketing reports. For example, keywords in legal, finance, and insurance are still some of the most expensive.
But here’s the trade-off: Google has also improved its ad tools. In 2025, Google is pushing Performance Max campaigns, which use AI to optimize your ads across Search, YouTube, Gmail, Maps, and more—all from one place.
Privacy, Cookies, and Tracking: What’s Changing?
One of the biggest shake-ups in digital ads is the phase-out of third-party cookies. Google Chrome, the world’s most-used browser, is set to fully stop supporting these cookies by the end of 2025.
This means advertisers won’t be able to track users across websites the same way as before. But Google has been preparing for this. They’re pushing new solutions like the Privacy Sandbox, which focuses on showing relevant ads without tracking individual users.
So, while tracking might get a bit trickier, it doesn’t mean Google Ads won’t work. It just means we’ll need to adapt to the new rules.
Is It Still Worth the Spend?
That depends on your business, your goals, and how well you manage your ads.
Google Ads works best when:
If you just “set it and forget it,” you might waste money. But if you monitor your campaigns, even once a week, you can stay on top of your budget and results.
What About Alternatives Like TikTok or SEO?
Great question. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and even Pinterest are gaining ad dollars, especially for brands targeting younger people or focused on visual content.
And let’s not forget SEO—getting found on Google without paying for ads. It’s still super valuable, especially for long-term results. But SEO takes time, and it’s not as predictable as paid ads.
Google Ads gives you more instant visibility. SEO and organic strategies are better for long-term traffic. Ideally, you want both.
Who Should Still Run Google Ads in 2025?
Here’s who can still benefit:
Tips to Win with Google Ads in 2025
If you decide to go ahead, here are a few things to keep in mind:
So, Should You Still Run Google Ads?
Yes, but with strategy.
Google Ads is not dead in 2025. It’s evolving. The platform still drives billions of clicks and conversions. The key is adapting to the new tools, higher costs, and changing privacy rules.
If you have a clear goal and a little budget to test, Google Ads is still a great way to grow. But if you’re just starting out or unsure, it’s smart to start small, learn the basics, and improve as you go.
And remember, don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Use Google Ads as part of a broader marketing mix that includes content, SEO, social media, and good old-fashioned customer service.
If you’re ready to start or improve your Google Ads strategy in 2025, Leading Digitals can help. Our expert team specializes in creating high-performing ad campaigns that drive real results: more clicks, more leads, and more sales. Whether you’re a small business testing the waters or a growing brand looking to scale, we offer affordable, data-driven solutions tailored to your goals. Let us handle the tech and strategy, so you can focus on what you do best—running your business. Visit www.leadingdigitals.com to get started with a free consultation today.
