It's the first question almost anyone asks when they want a website: how much does it cost? The honest answer is that it depends, but that's not a useful answer. What you need is to understand what it depends on, so you don't end up comparing quotes that look similar on the surface but hide enormous differences.
In this guide we break down the real price ranges of the market in 2026, what they include and what they don't, and how to choose based on your business goals.
1. The variables that determine the price
The cost of a website depends not just on who builds it, but on a series of factors that add up:
- Project complexity: a 5-page brochure site is very different from an e-commerce store with hundreds of products.
- Custom design vs template: a design built from scratch requires more time and skill than adapting a preset theme.
- Content: who writes the copy, takes the photos, produces the videos? These costs are often separate from the site itself.
- Functionality: online bookings, private areas, CRM or management system integrations significantly increase the budget.
- SEO and performance: a site optimised for search engines and fast on mobile requires additional technical work.
2. DIY with online builders: €0-500 per year
Platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or Webflow let you build a site without writing code. The cost is mainly the monthly subscription (€15 to €50 per month) plus any premium templates.
This works for those starting from scratch with a minimal budget who need a basic online presence. The limitations become obvious when you want something distinctive: templates are recognisable, performance is standardised, scalability is limited. Anyone looking for a professional, differentiated presence will eventually hit these walls.
3. Freelancer: €500-3,000
An experienced freelancer can deliver a good-quality site in this range. The main advantages are direct communication, flexibility and often a more accessible price compared to a structured agency.
The risk is variability. Quality between freelancers can vary enormously, and the cheapest option doesn't always cover aspects like SEO optimisation, load speed, or security. Before choosing, always ask for a portfolio, references, and a detailed line-by-line quote.
4. Web agency: €3,000-15,000
A small or medium agency brings a team with diverse skills: designer, developer, copywriter, SEO specialist. The higher price is justified by a structured process, guaranteed results, and ongoing support.
In this range you'll find websites designed to convert, with a polished visual identity, performance optimised for Google's Core Web Vitals, and a content strategy built for search engines. It's the right investment for those who see a website as a business tool, not just an online brochure.
5. Why the lowest price often costs more
A poorly made €300 site can cost you much more over time. You have to redo it after a year because it doesn't convert. You lose traffic because it's slow and Google penalises it. The design doesn't inspire trust and clients go to the competition.
The cost of a website isn't just the number on the invoice: it's also the opportunity cost of every client you didn't acquire. Thinking in these terms completely changes the perspective on budget allocation.
Conclusion: a website is an investment, not an expense
There's no universally correct figure: there's the right price for your goals. A shop that wants to sell online has different needs from a professional looking for new clients, who in turn is different from a company wanting to strengthen their brand.
Before asking for a quote, define what you want to achieve with the site. More conversions, more visibility on Google, a more professional image? With clear objectives, comparing offers becomes much simpler. If you already have a site but it's not delivering results, read our article on why your website doesn't convert. If you're unsure whether you need a full site or just a landing page, we've written a guide on landing page vs website.
If you want to understand which solution suits you with no commitment, book a free call with our team. We'll help you understand what you actually need, even if you end up not working with us.
Written by Webble Studio
