How Much Does a Website Cost in 2026?
If you're a small business owner looking to get a website built, you've probably asked yourself this question a dozen times. The truth is, website costs vary wildly depending on what you need.
Let's break it down so you know exactly what to expect.
The Quick Answer
For most small businesses, expect to pay:
- DIY Website Builders (Wix, Squarespace): $150-$500/year
- WordPress with a Theme: $500-$2,000 one-time + hosting
- Custom Agency Website: $3,000-$15,000+ one-time
What Affects Website Cost?
1. Number of Pages
A simple 5-page website (Home, About, Services, Contact, Blog) costs significantly less than a 50-page site with multiple service categories.
2. Custom Design vs Templates
Using a pre-built template saves money but limits uniqueness. Custom designs cost more but make your business stand out.
3. Functionality
Need online booking? E-commerce? Customer portals? Each feature adds development time and cost.
4. Content Creation
Many quotes don't include copywriting or photography. Budget extra if you need professional content created.
DIY Website Builders ($150-$500/year)
Best for: Solopreneurs, hobby businesses, or those on tight budgets.
Platforms like Wix, Squarespace, and Webflow let you drag-and-drop your way to a website. You'll pay monthly ($12-$50/month), which adds up over time.
Pros:
- Low upfront cost
- No technical skills needed
- Templates look decent
Cons:
- Limited customization
- You're locked into the platform
- Can look "template-y"
WordPress with Premium Theme ($500-$2,000)
Best for: Businesses that want more control without going fully custom.
WordPress powers 40% of the web. Pair it with a quality theme ($50-$200) and some plugins, and you have a solid foundation.
Costs breakdown:
- Theme: $50-$200
- Premium plugins: $100-$300
- Developer setup: $300-$1,500
- Hosting: $100-$300/year
Pros:
- Huge flexibility
- You own your site
- Massive plugin ecosystem
Cons:
- Requires some maintenance
- Security updates needed
- Can get complex
Custom Agency Website ($3,000-$15,000+)
Best for: Established businesses ready to invest in their online presence.
This is where you work with professionals (like us at MooseBase) to create something unique. Your site is designed specifically for your brand, your customers, and your goals.
What's included:
- Discovery and strategy session
- Custom design mockups
- Mobile-responsive development
- SEO foundation built-in
- Training on how to update content
Pros:
- Completely unique to your brand
- Built for conversion
- Professional quality
- Ongoing support available
Cons:
- Higher upfront investment
- Takes 4-8 weeks to complete
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Don't forget about:
- Domain registration: $12-$50/year
- Hosting: $100-$500/year
- SSL certificate: Often free, sometimes $100/year
- Ongoing maintenance: $50-$200/month
- Content updates: Varies by complexity
Which Option Is Right for You?
Choose DIY if: You're just starting out, have more time than money, and need something simple.
Choose WordPress if: You want flexibility, have some technical comfort, and plan to grow your site over time.
Choose an agency if: Your website is a core part of your business, you want to stand out from competitors, and you value professional results.
Ready to Talk Numbers?
Every business is different. The best way to know exactly what your website will cost is to have a conversation about your specific needs.
Book a free consultation and we'll give you an honest assessment - no pressure, no surprises.