Introduction
If you’re a small business owner, one of the first questions you’ll ask when getting online is simple — how much does a website actually cost?
The answer can vary a lot. You might see websites advertised for a few hundred pounds, while others run into the thousands. This can make it confusing to know what you actually need, and more importantly, what you should be paying.
The truth is, a website isn’t just about having something online — it’s about having something that works for your business. A well-built website should help you build trust, attract customers, and generate enquiries consistently.
In this guide, we’ll break down the real costs of a small business website, what you’re paying for, and how to choose the right option for your business.
The Typical Cost of a Small Business Website
1. Basic Websites (£300 – £500)
These are ideal for businesses just starting out or those who simply need an online presence.
You can expect:
- 1–3 pages
- Basic design
- Mobile-friendly layout
- Contact form
This type of website is perfect if you just need something clean and functional without too many extras.
2. Standard Business Websites (£500 – £1,000)
This is where most small businesses sit.
You get:
- 4–6 pages
- Custom design
- Better structure and layout
- Improved user experience
- Basic SEO setup
At this level, your website starts to become more than just a presence — it becomes a tool for generating enquiries.
3. Advanced Websites (£1,000+)
These are for businesses looking to grow or stand out more in their market.
You’ll typically get:
- Fully custom design
- More pages and features
- Lead-focused layouts
- Faster performance
- Ongoing support options
This is where your website becomes a real asset to your business.
What Affects the Price?
Several factors influence how much your website will cost:
Number of Pages
More pages = more design and build time.
Design Quality
A basic template will cost less than a fully custom design.
Features
Things like booking systems, advanced forms, or integrations increase cost.
Content
If you need help writing content, this can add to the price.
Cheap vs Value
It’s important not to focus only on the lowest price.
A very cheap website might:
- Look unprofessional
- Load slowly
- Not work properly on mobile
- Fail to generate enquiries
On the other hand, a well-built website:
- Builds trust instantly
- Makes your business look credible
- Helps convert visitors into customers
Don’t Forget Ongoing Costs
Even after your website is built, there are a few ongoing costs:
- Domain name (usually £10–£20/year)
- Hosting (around £5–£20/month)
- Maintenance (optional but recommended)
These are essential to keep your site running smoothly.
What Should You Choose?
For most small businesses, a £400–£700 website is the perfect starting point.
It gives you:
- A professional look
- Enough pages to explain your services
- A solid foundation to grow from
You can always upgrade later as your business expands.
Final Thoughts
Your website is often the first impression people have of your business. It doesn’t need to be overly complicated — but it does need to be done properly.
Investing in a clean, well-built website can make a huge difference in how your business is perceived and how many enquiries you receive.
Need Help With Your Website?
If you’re looking for a simple, professional website that actually works, Redhouse Media can help.