The Big Question: What Should You Expect to Pay?

If you’re running a small business in the UK and planning a new website, one of the first things on your mind is likely cost. The answer isn’t always simple, because pricing varies widely depending on what you need and who you hire. That said, this guide will give you a clear idea of what to expect in 2025, whether you're considering a simple brochure site or a more advanced custom build.

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DIY Website Builders: The Budget Option

One of the biggest factors influencing cost is the type of provider you choose. DIY website builders like Wix, Squarespace, or Shopify offer subscription-based plans that range from around £10 to £50 per month. They’re great for very small businesses or startups who need something live quickly and cheaply. However, these platforms often come with limitations in terms of design flexibility, performance, and scalability.

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Freelancers: A Custom Site Without the Agency Price

If you prefer to hire a professional, UK-based freelance web designers typically charge anywhere between £800 and £2,500 for a standard small business website. The exact price depends on the number of pages, the complexity of the design, and whether you're starting from scratch or refreshing an existing site. Freelancers are a great option if you want a balance between affordability and customisation, but it’s important to choose someone with a solid portfolio and good communication.

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Web Design Agencies: Full-Service, Higher Investment

For businesses looking for a more comprehensive service — including strategy, branding, SEO, and ongoing support — hiring a web design agency is the best route. Agency projects in the UK usually start at around £2,500 and can go upwards of £10,000 for a highly customised site. With agencies, you're paying for a team, often including designers, developers, copywriters, and marketers working together on your project.

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What Drives Website Costs Up (or Down)?

Beyond who builds your site, there are other cost factors to keep in mind. The number of pages affects pricing, as does the inclusion of extra features like booking systems, e-commerce functionality, animations, or custom integrations. A templated site is cheaper than a fully custom design, and adding services like copywriting, SEO optimisation, and brand strategy will increase the total cost but can significantly boost long-term results.

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Don’t Forget Ongoing Costs

It’s also important to consider ongoing costs. You’ll need to budget for a domain name (usually around £10–£20 per year), web hosting (typically £5–£25 per month), and possibly email hosting or monthly site maintenance. Some clients choose to handle this themselves, while others prefer their designer or agency to manage everything.

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A Realistic Budget for Small Businesses in 2025

So, what’s a realistic budget for a small business website in the UK right now? If you’re working with a freelancer on a five-page brochure site, expect to pay between £800 and £1,500. A small business site built by a mid-sized agency usually costs between £2,500 and £5,000. For more complex needs — such as e-commerce, booking systems, or custom-built features — prices range from £4,000 to £10,000+ depending on the scope.

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Final Thoughts: Your Website Is an Investment

When planning your budget, it’s worth keeping in mind that your website is more than just an online brochure. It’s your digital storefront, your sales tool, and often your first impression. Cutting corners can cost you more in the long run — through lost enquiries, poor performance, or the need to rebuild sooner than expected.

If you’re unsure where your project fits into all this, the best approach is to speak to a few professionals, share your goals and budget, and ask for a detailed proposal. A good designer or agency will help you find the right balance between cost, performance, and long-term value.

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Need Help?

If you’re planning a website and want honest advice on what’s possible within your budget, feel free to reach out. No hard sell — just real answers.