How Much Does a Website Cost in 2025? Real Prices & What to Expect 

Key highlights  

• Understand the factors that impact the overall cost, including domain registration, hosting, design and security.  
• Discover how Bluehost AI website builders offer built-in features to help you create a professional WordPress site.  
• Find out about the often-overlooked expenses like transaction fees, plugin updates and professional services that can affect your budget.  
• Learn valuable tips on how to minimize website development costs, such as using free tools and scaling your site as your business grows.  

Gain insights on choosing between shared, VPS and dedicated hosting plans based on your website’s long-term growth potential.  

Introduction  

So, you’re ready to build your own website in 2025, but how much does a website cost? Well, it can be surprisingly expensive if you don’t know where to look.   

Did you know that nearly 60% of small businesses fail to launch a website because they underestimate the website costs? Some websites can even cost upwards of $10,000 if you hire a pro to do everything from scratch.  

But the good news is, you don’t have to break the bank to get a website up and running. You can create a stunning website on a budget with the right tools and planning.   

In this blog, we’ll break down the real website costs behind building a website. We’ll also share some tips on how to maximize your investment and ensure that your website offers long-term value.   

Let’s dive right in!  

Website cost summary: A quick comparison  

One of the key considerations when determining how much does a website cost is understanding the type of website you choose to build. Whether a personal blog, business site, eCommerce store or nonprofit, various factors affect your budget and the tools you’ll need. 

Here is a detailed comparison table: 

Component	Personal site	Business website	eCommerce site	Nonprofit site
Estimated cost range	$50 – $500	$500 – $2,500	$1,000 – $10,000	$100 – $1,500
Initial setup costs	$10 – $100 (domain + hosting)	$50 – $500 (domain + setup)	$200 – $1,000 (platform + setup)	$50 – $300 (domain + hosting)
Ongoing website maintenance costs	$50 – $200/year (hosting, updates)	$200 – $1,000/year (hosting, updates)	$500 – $3,000/year (hosting, payments)	$100 – $500/year (hosting, security)
SEO/integrations	Basic SEO	Advanced SEO	Comprehensive SEO	Basic SEO, nonprofit tools
Security features	Basic SSL	SSL, 2FA	SSL, 2FA, payment security	SSL, donation security
Hidden costs	Minimal	Transaction fees, plugins	Transaction fees, gateway costs	Transaction fees, donation platform fees

 This comparison table breaks down the key costs and features of building a website for different purpose sites. Take into account not only the initial website costs but also the ongoing website maintenance and scalability options increase as your website grows.   

Let’s dive into the core elements that affect website cost in 2025, so you can better plan your budget as you move forward.  

What are the key factors that affect website cost?  

Website costs are influenced by several key factors, including domain, hosting, design, eCommerce tools and ongoing maintenance. Here are some crucial factors that contribute to how much does it cost to make a website:  

1. Domain name and registration  
2. Website builder or CMS platform  
3. Web hosting and server performance  
4. SSL certificate and website security  
5. Website design and user interface  
6. Ecommerce functionality and payment tools  
7. Plugins, apps and integrations  
8. Marketing and analytics features  
9. Professional services and support  
10. Ongoing maintenance and updates  

Let’s take a closer look at these essential elements, starting with the most fundamental.  

1. Domain name and registration  

Average cost: $10 – $20 per year for a standard domain  

Securing a domain name is one of the first and most important steps in building your website. Your domain is your digital address and it plays a key role in establishing your online presence.   

The cost of a domain name can vary depending on factors like the domain extension (.com, .org, .net) and the registrar you choose. On average, you can expect to pay around $10 to $20 per year for a standard .com domain.  

However, if you opt for a premium domain name, you could end up paying hundreds or even thousands of dollars.  

Bluehost simplifies simplifies the process by offering a free domain, free SSL, AI-powered website builder (WonderSuite) and one-click WordPress setup—all integrated to launch your website quickly and securely. This makes it easy to get started without extra website costs right off the bat. 

In addition, Bluehost free domain solution includes free SSL certificates for extra security for your own site from day one. Whether you’re wondering how much does a website cost or just getting started, Bluehost is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced users. 

2. Website builder or CMS platform  

Average cost: $2.95 – $50/month  

When building a website, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to use a website builder or a CMS platform. Both have their advantages. Your choice depends on your specific needs and level of technical expertise.  

CMS platforms like WordPress offer much greater flexibility and control over your website. With WordPress, you can choose from thousands of themes and plugins to add functionality.   

Popular website builders like Wix or Squarespace offer design tools, but they often come with limitations if you need more control. 

However, Bluehost AI Website builder, a part of WonderSuite, provides all the added benefits of being integrated directly with your hosting plan. It also offers enhanced features like search engine optimization, mobile responsiveness and customizable templates, all designed to help your website grow. 

3. Web hosting and server performance  

Average cost: $3 – $50/month  

For any website to be visible on the Internet, it needs to be hosted on a web server. Without it, your site won’t be accessible to website visitors. For beginners or small websites, shared hosting is a budget-friendly option. For businesses or larger websites, dedicated hosting is a better option.  

If you’re just getting started, Bluehost Shared hosting plan is a smart and affordable way to launch your site. With prices starting at just $2.95/month, It’s the perfect foundation for small businesses or any project where ease of use and value matter most. 

In short, choosing the right hosting plan is about balancing cost, performance and business growth potential.  

Bluehost provides a range of hosting options, from affordable shared hosting plans to powerful VPS and dedicated hosting services. All plans include 99.9% uptime, free SSL, 24/7 support and easy one-click WordPress installs for faster setup. 

4. SSL certificate and website security  

Average cost: $10 – $100/year  

An SSL certificate (Secure Sockets Layer) is one of the most essential features to ensure your website’s safety. This certificate encrypts the data exchanged between your website and its users. This makes it nearly impossible for hackers to intercept sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details.  

Also read: What Is an SSL Certificate, and How Much Does It Cost? 

The cost of SSL certificates can vary widely. Basic SSL certificates typically range from $10 to $100 per year, while more advanced functionality, such as Extended Validation (EV) certificates, can cost upwards of $200 per year. EV certificates display the verified company name in the web address bar, providing an extra layer of trust for your target audience.  

5. Website design and user interface  

Average cost: $20 – $10,000+  

A well-designed website not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also guides visitors to find what they need quickly and efficiently. An important aspect of web design is the user interface (UI) is how users interact with your site.   

A clean, intuitive UI ensures visitors can navigate your website with ease, which leads to better engagement and higher conversion rates.   

Custom web design costs typically start at around $1,000 and can go much higher based on complexity, number of pages and special features. However, investing in a unique and responsive website design is often worth it for businesses looking to create a standout online presence. 

At Bluehost, we offer professional web design services that cater to businesses of all sizes. Our WordPress experts ensure that your site looks great and functions seamlessly, with fast load times and user-friendly navigation.  

6. eCommerce functionality and payment tools  

Average cost: $29 – $300/month  

For businesses looking to sell products or services online, commerce functionality is a must. An online store requires the right tools to manage inventory, process payments securely and ensure a smooth shopping experience. These features are essential for converting visitors into paying customers.  

If you’re building a custom eCommerce site using platforms like Shopify or BigCommerce, the costs can rise significantly. Shopify’s basic plan starts at $29/month when billed annually. 

Also read: Best Shopify Alternatives for Your Online Store in 2025 

Bluehost WooCommerce hosting includes built-in product pages, secure payment tools (like Stripe/PayPal) and scalability for growing stores—ideal for launching an online store without extra development. With integrated options like PayPal, Stripe and credit card payments, we ensure a smooth and secure checkout process.  

For businesses looking to keep costs manageable while still offering a feature-rich ecommerce experience, Bluehost WooCommerce hosting provides a perfect balance of affordability and functionality.  

7. Plugins, apps and integrations  

Average cost: $0 – $300/year  

The cost of plugins can be different. Many plugins are free, while the premium versions with advanced features may cost anywhere from $30 to $300 annually. If you’re running an eCommerce site, these website maintenance costs can add up quickly, but they often offer powerful functionality.  

For example, integrating with tools like Google Analytics helps you track your existing site performance, while apps like Stripe and PayPal handle payment processing. You might also integrate with customer relationship management (CRM) software or marketing tools to manage customer interactions and drive sales.  

8. Marketing and analytics features  

Average cost: $0 – $500/month  

The cost of marketing tools can vary depending on the platform and the features you need. Basic tools like email marketing plugins and social media integrations may come at little to no cost.   

However, the advanced features such as automated marketing campaigns, personalized recommendations or customer segmentation can range from $10 to $500.  

Google Analytics is free and provides comprehensive data about your website’s traffic, including where visitors are coming from, what pages they view and how long they stay.   

9. Professional services and support  

Average cost: $50 – $500/hour  

Many businesses rely on these professional services to address technical challenges and make their websites stand out. The cost of professional services can vary depending on the level of expertise required.   

Basic services such as website setup, design tweaks and plugin installations may cost anywhere from $50 to $200 per hour if you hire a freelancer or agency. For more complex tasks like custom development, website redesigns or SEO optimization, the development costs can rise to $500 or more per hour.   

10. Ongoing maintenance and updates  

Average cost: $50 – $300/month  

Maintaining a website doesn’t stop after launch. Ongoing maintenance and updates are essential to keeping your site secure and up to date with the latest features.   

These website maintenance costs can typically range from $50 to $300 per month, depending on the complexity of the site and the services required. For businesses, adding fresh content, optimizing performance and monitoring analytics are important to maintain a healthy website.  

How much does it cost to build a website with a website builder?  

Website builders typically range from $3 to $159 per month, depending on platform, design flexibility and eCommerce capabilities.  

Let’s compare the pricing and features of some popular website builders to help you decide which one fits your needs:  

Platform	Pricing*	Design flexibility	eCommerce features	SEO tools	Additional features
Bluehost AI website builder	Starts at $3.00/month	High customization options, mobile-responsive templates	eCcommerce integration, product pages, secure checkout	Built-in SEO tools, automated SEO optimization	Free domain for 1 year, SSL certificate included, integrated hosting, easy drag-and-drop editor
Wix	Starts at $17/month	Moderate customization, wide range of templates	Basic ecommerce functionality, inventory tracking, payment gateways	SEO tools, customizable meta tags	App market for additional features, free plan available
Squarespace	Starts at $16/month	Beautiful templates, moderate customization	Ecommerce features, integrated payments, inventory tracking	Built-in SEO features, customizable meta descriptions	Premium templates, analytics tools, mobile optimization
Shopify	Starts at $29/month	High customization, themes available	Comprehensive ecommerce tools, abandoned cart recovery, payment gateways	SEO optimized, advanced SEO apps	Advanced reporting, marketing tools, multi-channel selling

*Depending on the plan 

Understanding the unique benefits of each tool will help you make an informed decision based on your needs, budget and the level of customization you want for your website.  

1. Bluehost website builder pricing and features  

The AI website builder, WonderSuite by Bluehost is an affordable platform designed to build a website without the need for technical expertise. Starting at just $3.00 per month, it provides an all-in-one solution that includes hosting, templates and built-in tools to get your site up and running quickly.  

Pricing:  

• Basic plan: 3.95/month. Ideal for simple websites, includes 10 websites, 10 GB SSD storage, free domain for 1st year and 24/7 support.  
• Choice Plus plan: $3.95/month. Ideal for multiple sites, includes 50 websites, 50 GB SSD storage, daily backups and Yoast SEO. 
• eCommerce Essentials plan: $6.95/month. Perfect for online stores, includes 100 websites, 100 GB NVMe storage and essential eCommerce tools.  

Key features:  

• WonderBlocks: Easily design your website by dragging and dropping customizable blocks with no coding skills required. 
• WonderThemes: Pick from a wide selection of stylish, mobile-responsive themes that automatically adjust to look great on any device. 
• WonderHelp: Get all the help you need with WonderHelp, from easy-to-follow guides to 24/7 support.  
• Integrated hosting: With WonderSuite, your hosting is included. That means less hassle for you, with everything you need in one place to get your site online. 
• SEO tools: Automatically optimize your site with built-in SEO tools, so you can rank higher on search engines without needing to be an SEO expert. 
• Security features: Enjoy peace of mind with automatic security updates, keeping your website safe from potential threats. 
• eCommerce ready: Easily set up an online store with WooCommerce that allows you to process payments securely and manage your products seamlessly.  

Overall, WonderSuite is an excellent option for anyone looking for a simple yet powerful solution to create a professional website. Whether you’re building a personal blog, a business site or an online store, WonderSuite makes it easier with affordable pricing.  

2. Wix website builder pricing and features  

Wix is another popular website builder known for its ease of use and flexibility. With a range of pricing plans, Wix is a good choice for those who want a simple solution to build a personal or small business website.   

While Wix offers various features and customization options, it does come with some limitations compared to other platforms.  

Pricing:  

• Free plan: Build a website with Wix branding and no custom domain.  
• Light plan: $17/month. It includes a custom domain for one year, 2 GB storage and light marketing tools.  
• Core plan: $29/month. It includes a custom domain for one year, 50 GB storage and a basic marketing suite.  
• Business plan: $36/month. It includes a custom domain for one year, 100 GB storage and the ability to accept payments.  
• Business elite plan: $159/month. It includes a custom domain for one year, unlimited storage, multi-cloud hosting and advanced eCommerce tools.  

Key features:  

• Drag-and-drop editor  
• Extensive template library  
• Basic ecommerce functionality  
• Mobile-optimized designs  
• 24/7 support  

3. Squarespace website builder pricing and features  

Squarespace is known for its sleek, professional templates and intuitive interface. It’s an excellent choice for individuals, creatives and businesses who want to create visually stunning websites with minimal effort. Let’s take a look at the pricing and key features of Squarespace’s plans.  

Pricing:  

• Basic: $16/month. Includes templates, 2 contributors and payment acceptance (2.9% + 30¢).  
• Business plan: $18/month. Includes unlimited pages, contributors and analytics.  
• Basic Commerce plan: $26/month. Includes ecommerce tools, inventory and discounts.  
• Advanced Commerce plan: $40/month. Includes abandoned cart recovery, advanced shipping and analytics.  

Key features:  

• Beautiful, customizable templates  
• Built-in eCommerce tools  
• SEO tools and social media integrations  
• Mobile-friendly design  
• Secure checkout and SSL certificate  

4. Shopify website builder pricing and features  

Shopify is one of the leading ecommerce platforms designed specifically for online stores. Known for its robust features and scalability, Shopify is ideal for businesses that want to sell products online.   

Pricing:  

• Basic: Starts at $29/month. It includes 10 inventory locations, global selling (3 markets) and POS Lite.  
• Grow: $79/month. It includes 88% shipping discount, 10 inventory locations, 5 additional staff accounts and POS Lite. 
• Advanced: $299/month. It includes 88% shipping discount, 10 inventory locations, 15 additional staff accounts and POS Lite.  
• Plus: $2,300/month. Designed for complex businesses with tailored features.  

Key features:  

• User-friendly drag-and-drop store builder  
• Wide range of customizable themes  
• Integrated payment gateways (Shopify Payments, PayPal and others)  
• Mobile-optimized store design  
• Marketing tools, including discounts and coupons  
• SEO features for better visibility  
• 24/7 customer support  
• App integrations for enhanced functionality  

Note: Pricing mentioned as up to date as of May 2025. For the latest pricing, visit the official website. 

How much does it cost to build a website with a professional developer?  

Hiring a professional web developer to build your website is a great option if you need custom design requirements that website builders can’t handle. However, the costs can vary widely depending on the complexity of the website and the level of customization required.   

Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect:  

1. Freelance developer pricing: What to expect  

Hiring a freelance developer can be a cost-effective option, especially for smaller or simpler websites. So, how much does a website cost with the help of freelance developers?  

Freelancers typically charge by the hour or project and their rates vary based on expertise, location and project scope.  

• Hourly rates: Freelance professional web designers charge $30 to $150 per hour, depending on skill and location.  
• Project-based pricing: Simple websites cost $1,000 to $5,000; complex sites can range from $5,000 to $20,000+.  

Freelancers are often a good choice for businesses on a budget or those needing specific functionalities but without the overhead costs of agencies.  

2. Web design agency pricing: What’s included  

Web design agencies offer a more comprehensive service, including design, web development, testing and ongoing support. They tend to be pricier than freelancers but offer a more complete package.  

• Basic website: Agency-built websites design costs $5,000 to $15,000, depending on pages and functionality.  
• Advanced website: Complex sites (eCommerce, custom apps) range from $15,000 to $50,000+.  

Agencies typically offer more structure, project management and ongoing support, making them a good choice for larger projects or businesses.  

3. Hidden costs of hiring a professional developer  

While hiring a professional developer offers a lot of benefits, there are also hidden costs that can add up throughout the project.  

• Additional revisions or design changes may incur extra charges.  
• Ongoing maintenance, updates and bug fixes are often billed hourly or as a monthly retainer.  
• Third-party integrations, like payment gateways or CRM tools, may involve setup or subscription fees.  
• Advanced SEO services and content creation are typically charged separately.  

How much does a website cost based on your business type? 

The cost to build a website can vary significantly depending on the type of business you are running. To understand clearly how much does a website costs, let’s break down what you can expect to pay based on your business type:  

1. Small business website  

For small businesses, having a professional and functional website is crucial for establishing an online presence and attracting customers. The cost will largely depend on the complexity of the website, the number of pages and the specific features required.  

• Website builder: $3 to $10/month for hosting, plus premium templates and plugins; total cost $50 to $500/year.  
• Professional services: Custom websites cost $1,000 to $5,000 for small business sites with essential features.  
• Annual maintenance costs: Maintenance, updates and hosting may add $100 to $500/year.  

Total estimated cost to build and maintain a small business website: $1,000 to $6,000. 

Also read: How to Build a Website for Your Small Business in 2025? 

2. eCommerce business  

Building an eCommerce site requires more advanced features, such as product pages, a shopping cart, secure payment gateways and inventory management. These sites also need strong security and scalability as your business grows.  

• Website builder with eCommerce: $10 to $30/month for hosting, plus additional costs for themes, apps and payment processing; total cost $200 to $1,500/year. 
• Professional services: Custom-built eCommerce sites cost $5,000 to $20,000+, depending on complexity and features.  
• Annual maintenance costs: Transaction fees (2.9% + $0.30 per transaction), inventory tools and marketing/SEO services may total $500 to $2,000/year.  

Total estimated cost to build and maintain an eCommerce business website: $5,700 to $23,500+. 

Also read: How to Create an eCommerce Business Plan 

3. Personal blog or content site  

Creating a personal blog or content site is usually the most affordable website option, as these sites tend to have fewer features and simpler layouts. However, it still requires a solid foundation for growth and engagement.  

• Using a website builder: You can get started for as low as $3 to $10/month for hosting and many blogging platforms like WordPress that also offer free themes.  
• Professional services: If you want a custom design, expect to pay between $500 and $3,000 for a blog with unique design elements, custom functionality and a CMS.  
• Annual maintenance costs: Depending on hosting, SEO tools and content updates, expect to pay $100 to $500 per year for ongoing maintenance.  

Total estimated cost to build and maintain a personal blog or content site: $650 to $3,620. 

Also read: How to Start a Blog in 5 Simple Steps 

4. Nonprofit or community website  

Nonprofit websites often have unique needs, including donation systems, event management and content about their mission. Fortunately, many nonprofit organizations can take advantage of discounts and grants for web development services.  

• Using a website builder: Many website builders offer nonprofit discounts. Web hosting costs typically range from $3 to $15/month. Additional costs for premium templates or donation plugins. Total cost could be around $100 to $1,000 per year.  
• Professional services: If you want a custom nonprofit website with donation integration, expect to pay between $2,000 to $10,000. 
• Annual maintenance costs: Nonprofit organizations may also need to budget for ongoing maintenance, SEO and event management tools, which can range from $300 to $1,000 per year.  

Total estimated cost to build and maintain a nonprofit or community website: $2,400 to $12,000.  

Nonprofits often receive discounted rates for web design services, so it’s important to inquire about these when planning your website.  

Also read: Top 15 WordPress Themes for Nonprofits in 2025 (Free & Paid) 

How to plan your website budget and reduce costs?  

Building a website requires careful planning, especially when budgeting for long-term costs like hosting, design and security. When figuring out how much does it cost to make a website, having the right budget strategy can help minimize costs. Here are some tips to help you plan your website budget and save money along the way:  

1. Use free tools and templates to start lean  

When starting a website, using free tools and templates is a great way to keep costs down. Many website builders offer free themes and basic tools that can help you build a solid foundation for your site without spending extra money. You can always upgrade later to premium themes or tools as your business needs grow.  

2. Choose an all-in-one platform to avoid hidden fees  

Opting for an all-in-one platform can help you avoid additional website costs that come with piecing together different services. All-in-one platforms include web hosting, design tools, security features and support in one package. This reduces the chance of hidden fees. The more streamlined your platform is, the fewer surprises you’ll encounter.  

3. Start with what you need, scale when you’re ready  

It’s easy to get carried away with all the extra features but starting with the essentials can help you stay within budget. Begin by focusing on the core features your business needs, like hosting, a domain and essential pages. Once your website is live and generating traffic, you can start adding more advanced features like eCommerce tools, email marketing and custom designs.   

4. Compare DIY, website builder and pro service options  

Another way to save money is by comparing different website-building options. If you have the technical skills, you might choose to DIY with WordPress, which is free.  

If you’re looking for ease and convenience, Bluehost or Wix offer affordable plans with included features, making them a good option. For more advanced sites, consider hiring a professional developer or agency, but keep in mind the higher costs involved.  

5. Don’t forget about long-term costs like maintenance  

While the initial cost of building your website is important, don’t forget about long-term costs. Maintenance is an ongoing expense that can include web hosting costs, plugin updates and content updates.  

Setting aside a portion of your budget for these recurring costs will help ensure your website remains functional and secure.   

Why is Bluehost the best choice for building your website?  

Bluehost is trusted by over 5 million WordPress users as the most reliable and affordable web hosting provider. This makes it the ideal choice for building your website. Bluehost offers a variety of features that make website creation easy and cost-effective. Here’s why:  

• Affordable pricing: Plans start at $2.95/month, including web hosting, a free domain and SSL certificates.  
• Easy to use: User-friendly control panel and AI website builder for quick setup, no coding required. 
• Free domain & SSL: Free domain for the first year and SSL for security.  
• SEO tool: Free Yoast SEO plugin to help optimize your site for search engines.  
• Scalability: Flexible plans and WooCommerce integration to grow with your business.  
• Email marketing: Creative Mail email marketing tools to engage customers.
• 24/7 support: Live chat, phone and email support anytime you need help.  

Bluehost is a top choice for building your website, offering a wide range of web hosting plans tailored to your needs.   

• Shared hosting: Ideal for small websites or businesses starting out, Shared hosting is the most affordable option. With the Basic plan, you can host up to 10 websites, 10 GB SSD storage and unmetered bandwidth. It’s perfect for businesses with moderate traffic looking to minimize costs while building a professional online presence. 
• VPS hosting: As your website grows and needs more resources, VPS hosting offers greater power and flexibility. The basic plan provides 2 CPU cores, 8 GB RAM and 1 TB HDD storage. It also includes advanced security features like SSL, Spam Experts mail filtering and SEO tools for added protection and optimization.
• Dedicated hosting: For large businesses or high-traffic websites, dedicated hosting provides a dedicated server, ensuring maximum performance. The basic plan includes 4 CPU cores, 8 GB RAM and 1 TB HDD storage, ideal for websites that require high security. This plan provides the performance and reliability needed for businesses handling large volumes of traffic and sensitive data. 

• Cloud hosting: Cloud hosting offers scalability and reliability for websites that experience traffic spikes. With 125 GB SSD storage, up to 10 websites and 100% uptime SLA, it’s ideal for businesses with up to 300K visits per month. This plan includes unlimited bandwidth and global edge caching, ensuring fast and reliable website performance even during high traffic periods. 

Final thoughts  

Choosing the right platform to build your website is a critical step toward achieving your business objectives. It’s important to factor in not just the initial costs but also ongoing expenses before your website’s financial commitment.  

The key is to plan ahead and invest in tools and services that will help your website grow. Bluehost offers a range of hosting options, from budget-friendly shared hosting to powerful dedicated servers.   

Get started today with Bluehost and build the website of your dreams.  

FAQ’s 

 

  

Maintenance costs range from $100 to $3,000/year, covering hosting, security updates and content changes. ” 

Hidden costs include plugin subscriptions, transaction fees, custom designs and ongoing maintenance.