The Three Real Options, and What Each One Costs
When people ask "how much does a website cost," they're usually comparing three very different paths without realizing it. Here's what each one actually involves:
Option 1 — Build It Yourself
You use a drag-and-drop builder and do the work yourself. Typical cost: $30–$100 per month, which usually includes hosting, security, and the design tool together. There's little to no upfront cost — you're paying for the platform monthly, not for someone's labor.
Option 2 — Hire a Freelancer
A freelancer builds the site for you using similar tools, then hands it over. Typical cost: $500–$3,000 upfront, depending on the number of pages and how custom the design is — plus hosting, which is usually separate and not included in their quote.
Option 3 — Hire an Agency
An agency provides custom design, copywriting, strategy, and a dedicated team. Typical cost: $3,000–$15,000 or more, often with an ongoing monthly retainer for updates and maintenance afterward.
If you're leaning DIY, CriticalWP bundles hosting, the design tools, and security into one $50/month plan — no separate bills to track. Get started →
What Most Quotes Leave Out
The number you're quoted is rarely the full cost. Before comparing prices, ask about each of these — they're the most common gaps:
- Hosting — where your site actually lives online. Freelancers and agencies often quote design only, with hosting billed separately and indefinitely
- Domain renewal — a small yearly cost ($10–$20) that's easy to forget and can take your site offline if missed
- Security and updates — software behind your site needs regular updates. Skipping this is how sites get hacked
- Future changes — what happens when you want to update your hours, add a photo, or change a price? Ask who does that and what it costs
- Support — if something breaks at 9pm on a Sunday, who do you call, and is that included?
Which Option Actually Makes Sense for You?
There's no universally "right" answer — it depends on two things: your budget, and what your time is worth doing instead.
- Choose DIY if your budget is tight, your needs are straightforward (a handful of pages, contact info, services), and you're comfortable spending a few hours building it yourself
- Choose a freelancer if you want it done for you but don't need a large team or ongoing strategy work
- Choose an agency if your site needs custom functionality, a larger budget is available, and you want an ongoing strategic partner, not just a builder
For most small businesses just getting a professional presence online for the first time, DIY with the right bundled platform covers everything needed — without the upfront cost of hiring someone else.
See exactly what's included in CriticalWP's $50/month plan — hosting, design tools, and security, all in one place.