How Much Does It Cost to Design a WordPress Website?
If you’re thinking about getting a WordPress website for your business, one of the first things you probably want to know is how much it’s going to cost.
And I understand why. As a business owner, you want to know what you’re getting into before spending your money.
The answer, there isn’t one fixed price for a WordPress website.
Whether you start off with a one page website or a 5+ page with more features, it all depends on what your business needs.
Today, I’ll share what I charge for WordPress website design, how I estimate the cost of a project, what other expenses you should consider, and a few tips I’ve learned from working with business owners over the years.
How Much Does It Cost to Design a WordPress Website?
For my own website design services, prices start at $300 for a one-page WordPress website. The final cost depends on what you need your website to do, how many pages you want, and whether you need additional features.
My Micro Business Starter package also includes managed website hosting and maintenance for $55 BZD per month, separate from the $300 setup fee.
For my larger website packages, the starting prices cover the website build. Domain registration and hosting are separate expenses.
You can also purchase your own hosting if you prefer.
You can view my WordPress website design packages and current starting prices.
How I Calculate the Cost of a WordPress Website?
Before I give a website design quote, I usually ask four questions.
1. Do You Have a Domain Name?
If you don’t have a domain name, I can guide you through the process or purchase one on your behalf. The domain registration cost is quoted separately and this is a yearly cost.
2. Do You Have a Website Hosting Account?
Your website needs hosting to be available online. This is where the website files lives on the internet. Some clients prefer to pay their own hosting, while others prefer that I handle it for them.
3. How Many Pages Do You Want?
A one-page website is different from a website with five or ten pages.
The more pages you need, the more time goes into planning, designing, and building the website.
4. What’s the Main Goal of Your Website?
Do you want customers to request quotes? View your services? Book a tour?
Once I have these details, I can give you a better estimate of what your WordPress website will cost.
I don’t believe in recommending a larger website just because it costs more. I prefer to understand what the business actually needs first.
Helping the Business Beyond the Website
Something I’ve learned from working with clients is that website design is only one part of building a strong online presence. I once worked with a tour guide who wanted to revamp their website and give it a more modern look. I completed the redesign they requested, but while working on the website, I noticed a few areas that could be improved.
The business needed to improve its social media presence.
I recommended posting more consistently on Facebook and Instagram and shared a few content ideas they could use.
I also helped them create and set up their Google Business Profile. Once it was ready, I provided their Google review link and recommended asking customers to leave reviews after each tour. They decided not to move forward with the recommendations at the time.
I still completed the website redesign they requested and helped them establish their Google Business Profile.
What About WordPress Hosting Costs?
One mistake I have noticed is that business owners sometimes focus too much on the discounted hosting price. You might see a hosting company offering a really good deal for the first year. And there’s nothing wrong with taking advantage of a discount.
But then comes renewal time and then what? I’ve seen business owners surprised by how much they need to pay when renewal reminder comes in their inbox.
I recommend looking at the regular renewal price, not just the introductory offer.
Before purchasing a hosting plan, check:
What’s the renewal cost?
Is the advertised price based on a one-year or multi-year payment?
Does it include backups?
Does it include SSL security?
Does it have enough storage for your website?
You should also be careful about choosing a hosting provider simply because it’s the cheapest.
Some low-cost plans have limits that may become a problem as your website grows.
Two hosting options I recommend considering are Hostinger and Elementor Hosting.
But whichever provider you choose, take time to compare the features and renewal costs.
What About WordPress Website Maintenance?
Once your website goes live, it still needs attention. WordPress websites receive frequent updates, and sometimes an update can may break the website.
If you’re comfortable managing these things, you can learn how to maintain your own website. There are plenty of tutorials available, however, if you don’t have time or don’t feel comfortable handling the technical side, you can hire someone to manage it for you.
Besides building WordPress websites, I also offer managed website hosting and maintenance.
Can You Build a WordPress Website on a Small Budget?
Yes, you can, I recommend starting with a simple website. My Micro Business Starter website package gives you a professional one-page WordPress website without having to pay for a larger build right away
What If I Want to Manage my Own Website?
I recommend researching WordPress hosting options such as Elementor Hosting.
You can also use a WordPress testing environment such as TasteWP to become familiar with the platform. Learn how to update your content, manage your pages, and keep your website up to date.
And when you’re ready to delegate the work or expand your website, you can hire someone to help.
Is It Better to Build Your Own WordPress Website or Hire Someone?
It depends on your time, budget, and how comfortable you are with technology.
WordPress gives you the option to build and manage your own website; but there’s a learning curve. If you have the time and enjoy learning a new skill, then building your own website might be a good option.
However, if you’re too busy and you keep putting this off, it might make more sense to hire someone.
So, How Much Should You Budget for a WordPress Website?
Start with what your business actually needs. If you’re a new MSME business and only need a professional online presence, a simple one-page WordPress website may be enough.
If you have several services, you may need a larger website. Don’t forget to budget for your domain, hosting, and ongoing maintenance.
At J&J Virtual Marketing, I do my best to work with my clients’ budgets and explain what’s included without making things complicated.
I don’t believe in tying clients down. If you want to manage your website on your own, I can provide guidance so you can learn how to do it.
And if you decide later that you’d rather have someone handle the technical side, that option is available too.
At the end of the day, the goal isn’t to have the biggest or most expensive WordPress website. It’s to have one that works for your business and your customers.
If you’re considering a WordPress website and aren’t sure which option fits your budget, you can view my website design packages or contact me to discuss what your business needs.
