Small Business Website Cost: What You Really Pay in 2025

When you ask about small business website cost, the total price to build and launch a functional website for a local business or solo entrepreneur. Also known as web design pricing, it’s not just about picking a template—it’s about matching your goals to the right tools and skills. Too many people get quoted $5,000 for a site that could’ve been done for $800, or worse, pay $200 and end up with something that doesn’t work on phones. The truth? The cost depends on what you need, not what someone says you should buy.

Most small businesses in the UK don’t need custom code or fancy animations. They need a site that loads fast, looks clean on mobile, and helps customers find them. That’s where WordPress, a content management system powering over 43% of all websites. Also known as CMS website, it lets you update your own content without hiring a developer every time comes in. It’s not magic—it’s practical. You can get a solid site up in days using themes and plugins, often for under £500 including hosting and domain. But if you need custom features like booking systems, online payments, or inventory tracking, you’re looking at eCommerce platforms, systems built specifically for selling products online. Also known as online store builders, they handle payments, taxes, and shipping automatically like Shopify or WooCommerce. Those cost more—usually between £1,000 and £3,000—because they’re built for sales, not just info.

What makes the price jump isn’t just the tech—it’s the person behind it. A freelancer charging £30/hour will give you a different result than a studio charging £100/hour. One might use pre-made blocks; the other might write custom CSS. One might forget mobile optimization; the other tests it on five different devices. That’s why two websites with the same look can cost two different prices. The best value isn’t the cheapest—it’s the one that includes training, basic SEO setup, and support for at least 30 days after launch.

You don’t need a $10,000 website to start. You need a site that works, loads fast, and turns visitors into customers. The posts below break down exactly what you get at different price points, what hidden fees to watch for, and how to avoid being upsold on features you’ll never use. Whether you’re thinking about using a builder like Wix or going with a custom WordPress setup, you’ll find real examples, real costs, and real advice from people who’ve been there.