“What is the average cost of website design for small business” is one of the most common questions I get asked.
The truth is, the answer depends on your specific needs and goals. As a small business owner, it’s important to know that website costs can vary significantly based on a few key factors. These include design complexity, the number of pages, custom features, e-commerce capabilities, and content creation.
The website you choose to build should align with both your budget and your business goals. Below, I’ll break down the key costs involved in creating a website, helping you understand what goes into building a site and how to make smart financial decisions when choosing the right solution for your business.
1. Domain Name
Your domain name is the address of your website on the internet (like yourbusiness.com or yourbusiness.com.au). Domain names are relatively inexpensive, typically costing between $20 and $40 per year. While the cost may seem small, choosing the right domain name is crucial — it’s the first impression people will have of your business online.
2. Web Hosting
Web hosting is where your website files are stored and accessed by visitors. The cost of web hosting can vary depending on the size and complexity of your website. If you have a small, informational website, basic hosting plans could range from $20 to $50 per month. For larger, e-commerce websites that require more server resources, costs can be higher.
As part of my services, I can recommend and help you set up hosting that best fits your site’s needs.
3. Website Design and Development
This is typically the largest part of your website budget. While you could opt for a DIY solution, many small business owners find that working with a professional is worth the investment in terms of time, quality, and results.
Here’s a general idea of how much different types of websites may cost:
•Basic brochure website: $1,500 to $5,000
•Small to medium e-commerce website: $5,000 to $10,000
•Custom websites or large-scale projects: upwards of $15,000
At Three Waters Digital, many of the sites I build are professional, template-based websites that are customisable to your brand’s needs. This approach helps keep costs lower while ensuring your site looks professional, functions smoothly, and is tailored to your business.
4. E-Commerce Functionality
If your business sells products or services online, you’ll need e-commerce functionality. The cost for this will depend on the complexity of your store, the number of products, and the type of payment gateways you want to integrate. Basic e-commerce features can often be included in more affordable plans, while more advanced customizations may drive up the price.
5. Content Creation
It’s important to factor in the cost of creating high-quality content for your website. This includes writing copy, taking photos, or producing videos. You can choose to create the content yourself, which may save costs but can take time, or Three Waters Digital can work with you to finish a polished website under one roof.
If you need assistance with content creation, I can help develop website copy that speaks to your audience, in addition to photography services to elevate the look of your site.
6. Ongoing Maintenance and Updates
A website isn’t something you build and then forget about. It requires ongoing maintenance to ensure it stays secure, runs smoothly, and remains up to date. Depending on the complexity of your site, you may handle some of this yourself, or you might want to budget for professional support. Costs for ongoing maintenance typically range from $50 to $200 per month.
At Three Waters Digital, I offer flexible options for ongoing support and updates, making sure your website remains current and performs optimally as your business grows.
Is It Worth the Investment?
The cost of building a website can vary widely depending on your needs, but it’s important to see it as an investment in your business. A professionally built website enhances your credibility, increases visibility, and ultimately helps drive sales.
At Three Waters Digital, I focus on providing cost-effective, high-quality website solutions that help small businesses succeed online. Whether you’re launching your first website or looking to update an existing one, I’ll work with you to create a website that aligns with your goals and budget.
Final Thoughts: What to Spend on a Website
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much a website should cost. The best approach is to evaluate your business needs, set a budget, and determine which features are essential for your website to achieve its goals. Ultimately, the investment you make in your website will pay off through increased customer engagement, improved credibility, and better visibility online.
If you’re ready to start building a website or want to discuss your options, I’m here to help guide you through the process and ensure your site is tailored to your business’s unique needs.
