"How much does a website cost?" has no single answer, because two websites with the same number of pages can need very different amounts of work. This guide explains what actually drives the price, so you can compare quotes fairly.
1. Scope: pages, features and content
A five-page brochure site is a different project from a site with online booking, customer accounts and a blog. Each feature adds design, development and testing time. Start by listing what visitors must be able to do, not just how many pages you want.
2. Custom design versus templates
A template is faster and cheaper, but it looks like everyone else's site and can be hard to adapt. Custom design takes more time because it is shaped around your brand and customers. For many businesses, a custom design on key pages and simpler layouts elsewhere is a sensible balance.
3. Integrations
Payments, booking systems, CRMs, email tools and maps all need connecting and testing. Ask which third-party services are included and who pays for their subscriptions.
4. Content and photography
Someone has to write the text, source the images and translate if you need more than one language. If you will supply content, agree the deadline, because late content is the most common reason for delays.
5. Search visibility
A site built with clean structure, fast loading and proper metadata is easier to find. Technical SEO set up during the build costs far less than fixing it later.
6. Hosting, domain and ongoing care
Domains, hosting and maintenance are separate from the build. Ask what is included, what renews each year and who holds the accounts. You should own them.
How to get a quote you can compare
- Give every supplier the same written brief.
- Ask for deliverables, schedule and payment milestones in writing.
- Ask what is not included.
- Check who owns the code, design files and accounts at the end.
If you would like a written quote for your project, request a free concept and we will reply within one working day.