How Much Does It Cost to Build a Website for a Small Business?

Having a website is no longer optional for small businesses; it is essential. A well-designed website not only attracts potential customers but also enhances credibility, making it easier for businesses to establish trust and authority in their respective industries. But how much does it cost to build a website for a small business? 

Understanding the factors that influence website costs and choosing the right approach can help small business owners make informed decisions.

This article explores the key factors that impact website costs, provides a cost breakdown for different website-building options, and explains how FreeUp can connect businesses with skilled freelancers to achieve their website goals efficiently and affordably.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Website for a Small Business? Key Factors That Affect Website Costs

When determining the cost of a website, several key factors influence the final price. Below are some of the most significant aspects to consider:

Type of Website

The type of website a business needs is one of the most significant factors affecting cost. A basic informational website, consisting of a few pages such as Home, About Us, Services, and Contact, is relatively inexpensive. These websites primarily serve as digital brochures, providing essential information without complex functionality.

E-commerce websites, on the other hand, require additional features such as product pages, secure payment gateways, inventory management, and customer account functionalities. These added complexities drive up the cost, as they require more time and expertise to develop.

For businesses needing a unique and feature-rich platform, custom-built websites offer tailored solutions that go beyond standard e-commerce or informational websites. Such platforms may include membership sites, online communities, or specialized web applications that require extensive backend development, further increasing costs.

Design and Development

When it comes to web design and development, businesses have different options to choose from. DIY website builders such as Wix, Squarespace, and WordPress.com offer affordable and easy-to-use platforms that allow business owners to create their own websites without coding knowledge. While these platforms are cost-effective, they come with limitations in customization, making them less suitable for businesses seeking a unique and professional online presence.

Alternatively, businesses can hire professional web designers or developers to create a customized website. Professionals can work with template-based designs to keep costs low or develop fully custom websites tailored to a brand’s specific needs. While hiring a professional comes at a higher cost compared to DIY solutions, it offers better design, functionality, and scalability.

Features and Functionality

The features and functionality incorporated into a website play a significant role in determining its cost. Websites with basic pages and limited interactivity are more affordable, while those requiring advanced functionalities demand greater investment.

Some common features that impact website costs include the number of pages, contact forms, booking systems, and e-commerce capabilities. Businesses that require integration with third-party tools such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems, chatbots, and secure payment gateways also need to consider additional costs for these functionalities.

Ongoing Maintenance and Hosting

Building a website is not a one-time expense; ongoing maintenance and hosting costs are essential for keeping the site running smoothly. Domain registration typically costs between $10 to $20 per year, while web hosting services can range from $5 to $50 per month, depending on performance and security requirements.

Security updates, regular backups, and technical support are crucial to maintaining a website’s reliability and protecting it from cyber threats. Hiring a professional for ongoing support ensures that the website remains functional and up to date, preventing potential issues that could disrupt business operations.

Cost Breakdown: DIY vs. Hiring a Freelancer vs. Hiring an Agency

The cost of building a website varies significantly depending on whether you do it yourself, hire a freelancer, or work with an agency. Below is a breakdown of these options:

DIY Website Builders ($10–$50/month)

For small business owners looking for the most budget-friendly option, DIY website builders offer an accessible solution. Platforms like Wix and Squarespace provide ready-made templates and drag-and-drop tools, making it easy to create a website without coding skills. The monthly cost typically ranges from $10 to $50, depending on the chosen plan.

While DIY website builders offer affordability and ease of use, they come with limitations in customization and scalability. Additionally, business owners must invest their own time and effort to design, update, and maintain the site.

Hiring a Freelance Web Developer or Designer ($500–$5,000)

Hiring a freelance web developer or designer provides a more customized approach while remaining cost-effective compared to agencies. Freelancers offer expertise in creating websites tailored to specific business needs, improving design aesthetics and user experience.

The cost of hiring a freelancer varies based on the project’s scope, complexity, and the freelancer’s experience. Basic websites may start at around $500, while more complex projects can reach up to $5,000.

FreeUp connects small businesses with pre-vetted freelance web designers and developers, offering a range of pricing options to fit different budgets. By hiring through FreeUp, businesses can access experienced professionals without the high costs associated with web design agencies.

Hiring a Web Design Agency ($5,000–$30,000+)

For businesses that require a fully custom website with advanced features and a strategic approach, hiring a web design agency is an option. Agencies offer comprehensive services, including market research, branding, design, development, and ongoing support. However, this level of service comes at a high price, often ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 or more.

While agencies deliver high-quality, fully tailored solutions, the cost and longer development timelines make this option less feasible for small businesses with limited budgets.

Why Hiring a Freelancer Through FreeUp Is a Smart Choice

Hiring a freelancer through FreeUp offers a cost-effective alternative to agencies while ensuring high-quality results. By choosing a freelancer, businesses can achieve professional web design without paying premium agency prices.

FreeUp provides flexible pricing options, allowing business owners to pay for only what they need, whether it’s a one-time project or ongoing support. Additionally, FreeUp ensures that all freelancers are pre-vetted professionals, reducing the risks associated with hiring an inexperienced developer.

How to Get Started on FreeUp

Getting started with FreeUp is simple. Business owners should first define their website needs and budget, outlining the required features and functionalities. Once these details are clear, they can submit a request through FreeUp to be matched with top freelancers.

After receiving matches, business owners can review freelancer profiles, compare pricing, and choose the best fit for their project. Once a freelancer is hired, collaboration begins to bring the vision to life, ensuring the final website meets the business’s goals and expectations.

Find a Website Developer for Your Project 

So, how much does it cost to build a website for a small business? It depends.

The cost of building a website depends on various factors, including the type of website, design complexity, features, and ongoing maintenance. While DIY website builders offer affordability, they come with limitations in customization. Hiring a freelancer through FreeUp provides an excellent balance between affordability and professional quality, making it a smart choice for small businesses.

FreeUp offers a reliable platform to connect with skilled web designers and developers who can create high-quality websites tailored to business needs. Get started today and build a website that supports your business’s growth and success! Book a consultation to get started!