If you're a small business owner thinking about getting a new website, one of the first questions you're probably asking is: How much does a small business website cost?

The answer can vary dramatically.

You can find do-it-yourself website builders that advertise inexpensive monthly plans. You can hire a freelance web designer for a few hundred or a few thousand dollars. You can work with a traditional website design agency and spend several thousand dollars or more.

The important question isn't simply "How much does a website cost?"

It's:

"What am I actually getting for my money?"

A business website needs to do more than look attractive. It should help customers find your business, understand what you offer, contact you, and ultimately become paying customers.

What Does a Small Business Website Typically Cost?

The cost of a small business website generally depends on several factors:

• Number of pages
• Custom website design
• Website hosting
• Domain name
• Website functionality
• eCommerce requirements
• Content creation
• Search engine optimization
• Ongoing updates and maintenance
• Technical support

Some website companies charge a large upfront design fee and then add separate monthly hosting and maintenance charges.

Others use a monthly website package that combines website hosting, support, tools, and other services.

At IWantAWebsite, our approach is designed specifically for small businesses that want professional website design without the large upfront costs associated with traditional agencies. Current plans include standard business websites starting at $35 per month plus a one-time design and setup fee, with eCommerce options available at higher monthly rates.

Why Is Website Hosting Part of the Cost?

Website design and website hosting are two different things, although they work together.

Website design is the creation of your website—the pages, layout, images, navigation, branding, forms and functionality.

Website hosting is the service that keeps your website available online.

When someone types your domain name into a browser, their computer or phone needs to connect to a server where your website is stored.

That's why it's important to look at the total cost of owning a website, rather than simply comparing website design prices.

A $500 website may sound inexpensive until you discover that hosting, updates, security, support and other services cost hundreds of dollars additionally every year.

What Should a Small Business Website Include?

Before comparing prices, determine what your business actually needs.

A professional small business website should generally include:

• A mobile-friendly design
• A professional homepage
• About Us information
• Products or services
• Contact information
• Contact forms
• Clear calls to action
• Social media integration
• Google Analytics or similar reporting
• Search engine optimization
• Secure website hosting
• Easy content updates
• Reliable technical support

IWantAWebsite includes many of these capabilities as part of its small business website packages, including custom design, website pages, storage, social integrations, forms, calendars, analytics, mobile editing, support and SEO-related services.

Is a Cheap Website Worth It?

Sometimes.

If you're comfortable designing and maintaining everything yourself, a DIY website builder may be appropriate.

But your time has value.

If you're a plumber, contractor, realtor, restaurant owner, medical professional, retailer or other small business owner, your time is probably better spent running your business than learning how to configure website layouts, troubleshoot technical problems and maintain your website.

That's where professional website design can make sense.

A professional website should save you time while giving your business a better online presence.

Don't Forget the Cost of Not Having a Website

There is another cost that business owners sometimes overlook.

The cost of losing customers.

Today's customers frequently research a business online before calling, visiting or making a purchase.

If they search for your business and can't find a professional website—or find an outdated, difficult-to-use website—they may choose a competitor instead.

Your website is often the first impression a potential customer has of your business.

What Should You Look for in a Website Company?

When comparing website designers and website builders, don't look only at the initial price.

Ask:

-Is the website custom designed?

-Is hosting included?

-Who handles updates?

-Is technical support available?

-Is the website mobile friendly?

-Can I add pages later?

-Can I sell products online?

-Is SEO included?

-Can I use my own domain name?

-What happens if I need help?

At IWantAWebsite, the goal is to provide small businesses with website design, hosting and support in one straightforward service.

The Bottom Line

The cheapest website isn't necessarily the least expensive website.

The right website is one that provides a professional online presence, helps potential customers find you, makes it easy for them to contact you and gives you the tools and support necessary to grow.

For many small businesses, a professionally designed website with affordable ongoing hosting can be a much better investment than spending countless hours trying to build and maintain everything yourself.



Ready for a better small business website? IWantAWebsite can design, build, host and support your website from start to finish.