Creating a website can cost anywhere from a few dozen to several thousand euros. Why such a gap? Because every project is unique, and the final cost depends on many factors: your needs, the complexity of the site, the provider, and the selected options. In this article, I offer a simple and transparent breakdown of what you’re really paying for when you have a professional website created.
1. Essential costs
Even the most basic website comes with fixed expenses:
Domain name: around €10 to €20/year to reserve your web address (e.g., yoursite.com)
Hosting: €40 to €100/year to store your site on a secure server, accessible 24/7
SSL certificate: often included with hosting, it ensures secure (https) browsing
These are essential, even if you build the website yourself.
2. Website creation costs
This is where prices vary the most. Here are the main options:
DIY website builders: low monthly fees (€10–€30), easy to use but limited in customization. Best for very simple or temporary projects.
Web agencies: typically between €1,500 and €5,000 for a brochure-style website. You’re paying for a full team and a turnkey service.
Freelance web developer: €600 to €2,000 depending on the site’s complexity, included features (SEO, blog, forms, etc.), and level of customization.
Working with a freelancer gives you a tailored, professional, and scalable solution — often with better value for money.
3. Additional features and options
Your budget may evolve based on specific needs such as:
Booking or payment system integration
Multilingual setup
Regular maintenance and updates
Content creation (text, photos, videos)
Advanced search engine optimization (SEO)
Not everything is necessary from the start — define your priorities carefully.
4. Watch out for hidden costs
Some platforms or providers may charge hidden fees: forced advertising, page limits, paid support, or locked-in subscription models. Always check not just the price, but what’s actually included.
5. An investment, not an expense
A well-designed website isn’t a cost — it’s an investment. It increases your visibility, saves you time (via contact forms, key info, etc.), and helps attract new clients. With the right strategy, your site can pay for itself in just a few months.
Conclusion
The cost of a website depends on your goals — but it should always be clear, fair, and aligned with your business. As a freelance web developer, I offer transparent, scalable solutions tailored to small businesses and professionals. The key isn’t spending as little as possible, but building a reliable, effective website that lasts.