How Much Does A Website Cost?
Often we’ll have a discussion with a prospective customer who would like to get a website built and after stating a one-liner about the type of website they’d like, one of the first questions that arise is, “How much will something like that cost?”
The answer isn’t straightforward, as various factors influence the final price. In this post, we’ll explore the costs associated with website development, including what web developers typically charge and the various elements that contribute to the overall expense.
Please note that the information presented will be from the perspective of you paying a freelancer or agency to develop the website for you and does not include free or low cost website builder platforms. Details about these would be covered in another blog post.
Understanding Website Development Costs
1. Type of Website
- Basic Informational Websites: Simple websites that provide information about a business or individual typically cost less than more complex sites. Expect to pay between £500 to £1,500.
- E-commerce Websites: If you plan to sell products online, the costs increase significantly due to the need for secure payment processing and additional functionalities. A basic e-commerce site might cost between £2,000 to £10,000, depending on features and size.
- Custom Web Applications: For unique functionality or advanced features, custom web applications can start from £5,000 and go up to £50,000 or more, depending on the complexity.
2. Design Complexity
The level of design complexity significantly impacts cost. A simple, template-based design might cost between £500 to £2,000, while a fully custom design can range from £2,000 to £10,000 or more, depending on the required functionalities and branding needs.
3. Functionality and Features
Additional features, such as content management systems (CMS), user registration, forums, or custom integrations, can increase costs. Depending on the complexity, these features can add anywhere from £500 to £5,000 to your overall budget.
4. Content Creation
Quality content is crucial for a successful website. Hiring a professional copywriter can cost between £100 to £300 per page, depending on the level of expertise and content requirements. Getting professional photography can also add to the cost. Some developers may include this as part of their service, or it may be something you can source elsewhere. However, remember that a website is all about the visuals, so it may come at a cost but getting the imagery correct can make a significant difference to the quality of website and thus affect the user experience.
5. Maintenance and Hosting
After launch, ongoing maintenance is essential. Some web developers may include a few months hosting into their development cost but once that period has ended, you would need to budget for maintenance and hosting. Hosting costs vary, with basic shared hosting starting at £5 to £20 per month, while managed hosting can be £30 to £150 per month.
Average Cost Breakdown
To give you a clearer idea of potential costs, here’s a general breakdown of what you might expect for different types of websites:
1. Basic Business Website
– Design and Development: £500 to £1,500
– Domain Registration: £10 to £20/year
– Hosting (annual): £60 to £240
– Total Estimated Cost: £570 to £1,760
2. E-commerce Website
– Design and Development: £2,000 to £10,000
– Domain Registration: £10 to £20/year
– Hosting (annual): £100 to £600
– Total Estimated Cost: £2,110 to £10,620
3. Custom Web Application
– Design and Development: £5,000 to £50,000
– Domain Registration: £10 to £20/year
– Hosting (annual): £100 to £600
– Total Estimated Cost: £5,110 to £50,620
Additional Considerations
1. Project Scope and Timelines:
Clearly defining your project scope can help manage costs. Developers often provide estimates based on specific features and timelines. Changes made mid-project can lead to additional costs.
2. Long-term Strategy:
Investing in quality development can save money in the long run. A well-built website is more likely to require fewer updates and repairs, providing better Return on Investment (ROI) over time.
3. Get Multiple Quotes:
Always seek multiple quotes from different developers to compare services and prices. This can help you gauge the market and find a solution that fits your budget.
Conclusion
The cost of website development can vary significantly based on the type of website, the developer’s experience, design complexity, and required functionalities. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from £500 to over £50,000, depending on your needs. It’s essential to define your project scope and budget early on and consult with professionals to get a clear understanding of potential costs. With careful planning and consideration, you can create a website that meets your goals and fits your budget.
Are you considering getting a new website or have one that needs updating? Feel free to contact us via any of the methods on our Contact Us page.