How Much Does It Typically Cost to Build and Maintain a Small Business Website?

The cost of a small business website varies depending on whether you use a DIY builder or hire a professional. Understanding the real costs involved will help you budget appropriately and make the right decision for your business.

Using a website builder (like Wix, Squarespace, or basic Shopify), expect roughly $10–$40 per month for the platform, hosting, and basic features, plus $10–$20 per year for a custom domain. If you hire a designer or agency, a simple brochure-style site might cost $500–$5,000 upfront, with ongoing hosting, maintenance, and updates typically $50–$200 per month. E-commerce sites cost more because they involve product catalogs, payment processing, and more complex design. Always budget for ongoing updates, security, and occasional redesigns every few years as your brand evolves.

DIY Website Builder Costs

Using a website builder like Wix, Squarespace, or basic Shopify is the most affordable way to get started. Here's what you can expect to pay:

Monthly Platform Fees

Expect roughly $10–$40 per month for the platform subscription, which includes hosting, basic features, security, and customer support. This varies based on the plan you choose and the features you need.

• Basic plans: $10-15/month (suitable for simple brochure sites)
• Business plans: $20-40/month (includes custom domains, marketing tools, e-commerce features)
• E-commerce plans: $30-80/month (transaction fees, inventory management, payment processing)

Domain Name Costs

Plus $10–$20 per year for a custom domain name (like www.yourbusiness.com). Some platforms include the first year free with annual subscriptions.

Premium Features & Add-ons

Additional costs may include premium themes ($30-100 one-time), premium apps or plugins ($5-30/month each), and email hosting through Google Workspace or similar ($6-12/month per user).

Professional Web Design Costs

If you hire a designer or agency, a simple brochure-style site might cost $500–$5,000 upfront. This range varies significantly based on the designer's experience, the complexity of your site, and the number of pages.

What Affects the Price?

• Number of pages: More pages = higher cost
• Custom design vs template: Fully custom designs cost more than template-based sites
• Features needed: Contact forms, galleries, booking systems, and e-commerce add to complexity
• Content creation: Professional copywriting and photography increase costs but improve results
• Timeline: Rush projects often carry premium pricing

Ongoing Maintenance Costs

With ongoing hosting, maintenance, security updates, and occasional content updates, expect to budget $50–$200 per month for a professionally managed website.

• Hosting (managed): $20-100/month
• Maintenance & updates: $50-150/month
• Security monitoring: $10-30/month
• Content updates (as needed): $50-100/hour

E-commerce Website Costs

E-commerce sites cost more because they involve product catalogs, payment processing, inventory management, shipping integrations, and more complex design requirements. Expect:

• DIY builders: $30-80/month plus transaction fees (2-3% per sale)
• Professional design: $2,000-10,000+ upfront
• Ongoing costs: $100-300/month for hosting, maintenance, and support

Hidden Costs to Budget For

Always budget for ongoing updates, security, and occasional redesigns every few years as your brand evolves. Technology changes, design trends shift, and your business will grow—your website should evolve with it.

• SSL certificates: Often free, but premium options exist ($10-100/year)
• Stock photos: Premium images cost $10-50 each or subscriptions $29-99/month
• Marketing tools: Email marketing, SEO tools, and analytics ($20-200/month)
• Redesigns: Plan for a refresh every 2-3 years ($500-5,000 depending on approach)

Which Option is Right for You?

For most local service businesses just starting out, a DIY website builder offers an affordable entry point. However, hiring a professional often delivers better long-term value through improved design, SEO, and conversion rates that generate more leads and revenue.

At Hillview Group, we specialize in affordable professional websites for local trade businesses, bridging the gap between expensive agencies and DIY builders that take up your valuable time.