Website pricing is one of the most searched questions for good reason: the range is enormous. A simple brochure site can cost a few hundred dollars if you use a template and do the work yourself, while a custom web application can run well into six figures. What matters is matching scope to outcomes—not buying the most expensive option by default.
The main cost buckets
Most projects fall into five buckets: strategy and content, design, front-end development, back-end or integrations, and launch plus hosting. Small businesses often underestimate content and photography; those line items affect timeline as much as code.
- Domain: typically $10–$20 per year for a standard .com.
- Hosting: shared hosting can be $5–$30/month; managed WordPress or cloud setups scale up from there.
- Design and build: template sites are cheaper; custom UX and components cost more because they are built for your brand and conversion goals.
- Maintenance: security updates, backups, and small fixes are ongoing—plan for them annually.
How to get an accurate quote
Bring a one-page brief: who the site is for, what actions visitors should take, must-have pages, and any systems you need to connect (CRM, booking, payments). Vague requests produce vague estimates; specificity keeps both sides honest.
If you are comparing agencies, ask what is included in “launch”: performance tuning, basic SEO setup, analytics, training, and warranty period. Those details separate a finished product from a handoff that creates extra bills later.