Cost guide · 2026
Small business websites range from completely free to $20,000+ for an agency build. Here's an honest breakdown of every tier — and how most small businesses can get a professional site for under $250 in year one.
Quick answer
Most small businesses spend $0–$500 in year one on a website — $0 for a free AI build, $200–$300 with a custom domain, and $500+ if you add advanced features. Custom freelance builds run $1,500–$5,000.
From cheapest to most expensive — what you get, who it's for, and the realistic total.
$0 – $216/year
Most small businesses — services, freelancers, local
$200 – $600/year
Businesses wanting more design control
$1,500 – $5,000 one-time + hosting
Established businesses wanting brand investment
$5,000 – $20,000+ one-time + retainer
Larger businesses, premium positioning
These line items aren't always quoted up front but they add up fast.
$12–$20/year, plus $5–$10/year for WHOIS privacy. Easy to forget but essential for credibility.
Google Workspace $6/user/mo or Microsoft 365 similar. yourname@yourbusiness.com is worth the small expense.
Stock photos look like stock. Real photos of you, your space, and your work boost trust meaningfully — even iPhone shots in natural light.
Hosted builders include this; WordPress and self-hosted sites need updates, backups, and security. Budget $20–$80/mo or your own time.
The cheapest option, done well
Adviita generates a complete small business website from your description in seconds. Free forever — upgrade to ~$18/mo when you want a custom domain.
Build my small business site free →No credit card required
Yes. Customers Google your business name before reaching out — even those who found you on Instagram. A website is the trust signal that converts research into contact.
Free AI builders give you a complete, live website at $0 (with their branding in your URL). Upgrade to ~$18/mo when you want a custom domain. Total first-year cost: about $216.
Only if brand differentiation drives your business. For most small services (plumbers, cleaners, tutors), AI-built sites convert just as well at a fraction of the cost.
AI builders: 10–30 minutes. Hosted builders: 10–40 hours. Freelancers: 2–6 weeks. Agencies: 6–16 weeks.
Doing your homework?
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