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 $149/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. If DIY is the direction you're headed, here's what to have ready before you start so the build itself goes fast.
See exactly what's included in CriticalWP's $149/month plan — hosting, design tools, and security, all in one place.