Basic Website Cost: Real Numbers for a Simple Site

Thinking about a new site but scared by the price tag? You’re not alone. Most people assume a basic website will cost a fortune, but the truth is far simpler. Below you’ll see the real pieces that add up, so you can plan a budget that matches your needs.

What’s Included in a Basic Site?

A “basic” site usually means a few pages, a contact form, and a clean design that works on phones and desktops. The biggest cost drivers are:

• Domain name: Your address on the web. Expect $10‑$20 per year for a .co.uk or .com.
• Hosting: The space where your files live. Shared hosting starts at $3‑$8 per month; many UK providers offer a 1‑year deal for about £50 total.
• Content Management System (CMS): WordPress, Joomla, or a hosted builder like Wix. WordPress itself is free, but premium themes or plugins can add $30‑$100.
• Design & development: If you hire a freelancer, a simple template build can run $300‑$800. Agencies usually start around $1,200.
• Content creation: Writing copy, taking photos, or buying stock images. Budget $50‑$200 depending on how much you DIY.

Even with the lowest‑cost options, a fully functional basic site lands between £300 and £1,500 in the first year.

How to Keep Costs Low

Cutting price doesn’t mean skimping on quality. Try these practical moves:

• Pick a free theme: Many WordPress themes are free and mobile‑ready. Choose one with good reviews and you’ll avoid paying for a designer.
• Do the copy yourself: Write clear headlines and brief paragraphs. A little effort saves $100‑$200.
• Use free plugins: SEO, contact forms, and security have solid free options. Only upgrade if you need advanced features.
• Buy hosting annually: Most hosts give a 10‑15% discount for a 12‑month plan.
• Limit revisions: Set a clear scope with your developer and stick to it. Every extra page or layout tweak can add $50‑$100.

After you launch, remember that a website isn’t a set‑and‑forget asset. Expect a small monthly budget for updates, backups, and SSL certificates—usually $5‑$10.

Bottom line: a basic website can be built for under £500 if you handle the design and content yourself and choose budget‑friendly hosting. If you prefer a professional touch, plan for £1,200‑£1,800 for a polished, hassle‑free site.

Use this quick checklist to stay on track:

1. Domain – £10‑£20 per year.
2. Hosting – £50‑£80 per year.
3. Theme – Free or £30‑£100 one‑time.
4. Design build – £300‑£800 (DIY) or £1,200+ (agency).
5. Content – £0‑£200.
6. Maintenance – £5‑£10 per month.

Add the numbers up, and you’ll see exactly where your money goes. No mysterious fees, no surprise bills—just a clear picture of what a basic website really costs.