One of the main reasons small businesses hesitate to go online is the cost of a website. While web design can be expensive, with research and clear needs, you can significantly reduce your website’s price.
In 2020 and beyond, no business—no matter how small—can afford to be offline. Here’s what affects how much a website costs and what to consider before buying one.
What’s included in a website?
A website is more than just a page—it’s an experience made up of several elements:
Website: The visible part, created by you or a web designer/agency.
Domain name: The address (like cuernosoft.com) that users type to find your site. The domain’s suffix (.com, .net, etc.) and availability can affect the price.
Hosting: The “home” for your website, making it accessible online. Hosting is often the biggest long-term cost, with monthly or annual fees.
What to do before buying a website
To know how much a website costs, consider these points before making a decision:
Hosting
Compare hosting plans and features. Some include a free domain for a year, others don’t. Hosting is usually the largest ongoing expense, so choose wisely based on your needs.
Compare web design companies
Research what different companies offer—tools, customization, and support—before committing. This helps you avoid surprises and get the best value.
Get inspired by other websites
Look at other sites for design ideas. Knowing what you want helps you or your designer give a more accurate quote.
Check digital marketing blogs
Stay updated on design trends to make your site modern and attractive to customers.
What features does your website need?
List the pages and features you need—like a store or online payments. This will help you decide if you can build it yourself or need a designer.
Hire a designer or DIY?
Building your own site is cheaper but requires more work. Hiring a designer costs more but saves time and effort. Also, consider ongoing maintenance costs.
How much does a website cost?
Website prices vary widely, from $75 to $10,000+, depending on complexity and who builds it:
Simple website: DIY with basic hosting and domain can cost around $30 for the first year, then $10–$15/month.
Semi-professional website: For e-commerce or booking features, hosting is $25–$50/month if you build it yourself.
Custom website: Hiring a designer starts at $100–$300 for simple sites, up to $2,000+ for complex projects.
