How Much Does Building a Website Cost?
Picture this: your dream website is live, attracting visitors and growing your brand. But before you get there, one big question looms - how much will it cost to build? Let’s break it down step by step.
There are a few key pieces of the puzzle that determine how much you’ll end up spending before you hit that “publish”. Let’s break it down together so you’re not caught off guard:
Key factors affecting website costs
1. Domain name – Your website’s identity
Think of this as your website’s home address. It’s what people type in to find you. Most domain names cost around €10 - €20 per year, but if you’re eyeing something niche like a .tech or .ai domain, it could set you back hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Many popular domain registrars and website builders, like Squarespace, GoDaddy, or Wix, offer stellar registration deals. They often give out free domains for the first year or charge as little as €1, which sounds phenomenal... until it’s time to renew.
Renewal prices often jump significantly, catching many people by surprise. For instance, a domain registered for €0.99 might renew for €15 - €20 per year - or more. Choosing a provider with transparent, affordable renewal pricing can save you from headaches later.
Want to know who offers the best deals on domain renewals? Our comprehensive guide, "Who Offers the Cheapest Domain Renewals?", compares the top 10 providers, to help you make an informed decision.
Spoiler: We’re proud to say our renewal prices remain among the most competitive in the market.
2. Web hosting – where your website lives
When it comes to hosting, the options can feel like a buffet - lots of choices, and it’s hard to know what’s worth putting on your plate. Shared hosting is affordable, simple, and perfect for small websites with low traffic.
If your site starts picking up steam, you might need the VPS or dedicated hosting offering more power, speed, and space - but also a higher bill.
Here's a quick comparison of some popular hosting providers and their plans:
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For those building a WordPress site, WordPress hosting is another great option. Tailored specifically for WordPress users, it often includes features like pre-installed WordPress, faster loading times, and enhanced security. It typically ranges from €5 to €20 per month, making it a practical choice for users who want a hassle-free, optimized hosting experience.
3. Website builder or CMS – Your toolkit
You can choose between a website builder or a content management system (CMS) to build a website. Website builders like Wix, Squarespace, or SitePad make it easy to design websites without any technical skills.
Did you know all EuroDNS hosting plans with the Plesk control panel include SitePad website builder? With its drag-and-drop interface, you can create a polished website without breaking a sweat.
On the other hand, CMS platforms like WordPress offer greater flexibility and customization options. While WordPress may involve a steeper learning curve, it's a favorite among bloggers, small businesses, and even large enterprises.
Which option is best for you? It all depends on your technical skills and the level of control you want over your website.
4. Templates and themes: Your website’s look
Thankfully, website builders and CMS platforms like WordPress offer a wide range of templates and themes to help you get a polished design without needing professional help.
Here’s a breakdown on the costs and who can benefit from these:
5. Security: Peace of mind for you and visitors
Every website needs an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate - it keeps data safe and shows visitors they can trust you.
A basic SSL is often included for free with hosting plans. At EuroDNS, we’ve got you covered with a free SSL certificate included with every domain registration.
Want to know which SSL certificate is best for your needs? Check this guide.
For businesses handling sensitive data, advanced SSL certificates offering extended validation (EV) cost around €50–€150/year.
For websites handling eCommerce, customer data, or experiencing higher traffic, advanced web security solutions are essential. Tools like firewalls and malware scanning add an extra layer of protection.
Our Web Security Suite, starting at €3.81/month, offers tools like malware scanning and DDoS protection to keep your site safe and secure.
Additional costs to consider
Marketing and SEO tools
- SEO plugins for WordPress (e.g., Yoast SEO or Rank Math) are free or cost up to $120/year.
- Advanced tools like SEMrush or Ahrefs cost $99–$399/month.
Email marketing tools
- Platforms like Mailchimp or ConvertKit range from $15–$100/month based on subscriber count.
Analytics and monitoring tools
- Google Analytics is free, but premium alternatives like Hotjar or Crazy Egg cost $50–$500/month.
Tips to reduce costs
Let’s face it, building a website can get pricey fast, but there are some clever ways to keep costs in check without cutting corners.
- Opt for free or shared hosting when starting small.
- Use free templates and plugins initially, upgrading only as your needs grow.
- Bundle hosting and domain purchases for discounts.
- Regularly review subscriptions to avoid paying for unused tools or features.
Planning your website budget
Building a website can cost anywhere from under €100 for a simple DIY project to over €20,000 for a professionally crafted, feature-rich site. The key is knowing what you need and prioritising wisely to strike the right balance between cost and functionality. Whether you're starting small or dreaming big, there’s a budget-friendly path for every vision.
FAQs
1. What’s the cheapest way to host a website if I don’t get much traffic?
Shared hosting is your best bet. It’s affordable and works perfectly for small websites with low traffic. Our hosting plans start at just €1.99/month.
Check out our plans to find the one that fits your needs!
2. How do I know if I need premium themes or templates? Can’t I just use free ones?
Free templates are great for starting out, but premium ones offer more customization and professional designs. If your site needs to stand out, upgrading might be worth it.
3. How much does it cost to run an eCommerce website every month?
For eCommerce, you’ll need hosting, SSL, and possibly premium plugins or tools for payments and shipping. Monthly costs typically start around €20 and can go up based on your requirements.
4. Do I need to pay for a website builder and hosting separately?
Not always. Some hosting plans, like those with SitePad and Plesk, include a website builder, so you don’t have to pay extra. It’s a cost-effective way to get started.
5. What’s the cost of building a website with WordPress in 2025?
WordPress websites can cost as little as €50–€200 annually if you use free themes and shared hosting. For advanced plugins or custom designs, costs can climb to €1,000 or more.
6. What’s included in website maintenance fees, and how much should I budget?
Maintenance fees typically cover hosting, domain renewals, security updates, and backups. Costs range from €50–€300/year for DIY upkeep or €500–€1,000/year with professional services.
