If you’re considering hiring a professional web designer to build a website for your local service business in 2025, you’re likely wondering about the cost. The answer varies depending on the complexity of the website, the designer’s expertise, and whether you require ongoing hosting, maintenance, and updates. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a one-page website versus a multi-page website, along with the associated annual fees for upkeep.
Hint: Feel free to ask Google or ChatGPT this exact question (copy/paste the title of this post) and you’ll find very similar figures to what you’ll read below.
Option 1: One-Page Website
A one-page website is a simple, streamlined option for businesses that need a basic online presence.
Upfront Cost:
- Freelancers: $500–$2,000
- Agencies: $1,500–$5,000
Annual Hosting, Maintenance, and Updates:
- Freelancers: $250–$1,000
- Agencies: $500–$2,000
What’s Typically Included:
- Custom design or a tailored template
- Mobile-friendly and responsive layout
- Basic SEO optimization
- Contact form or booking functionality
- Hosting, security updates, and minor content changes throughout the year
Option 2: Multi-Page Website (Up to 5 Pages)
If your business needs more functionality and content, a multi-page website is the way to go. This is perfect for those wanting pages like Home, About, Services, Testimonials, and Contact.
Upfront Cost:
- Freelancers: $1,500–$5,000
- Agencies: $3,000–$10,000+
Annual Hosting, Maintenance, and Updates:
- Freelancers: $500–$1,500
- Agencies: $1,000–$3,500+
What’s Typically Included:
- Custom design or more advanced features
- Mobile-friendly and responsive layout
- Basic to advanced SEO optimization
- Additional functionalities like a blog or portfolio
- Hosting, regular updates, backups, and ongoing support
Factors Influencing Cost
Several factors can affect how much you pay for your website. Here are some key considerations:
- Customization: The more custom designs and features (e.g., booking systems, advanced SEO) you need, the higher the cost.
- Hosting & Security: Managed hosting services or premium security measures can add to the price.
- Content: If you require the designer to write or source content (e.g., text or images), this may increase the overall cost.
- Maintenance Frequency: Websites needing frequent updates or support will typically incur higher annual fees.
Pro Tips for Hiring a Web Designer
- Choose Bundled Services for Convenience: Working with a web designer who bundles design, hosting, and maintenance into one service package can save you time and hassle. Instead of juggling multiple providers, you’ll have a single point of contact for all your website needs. At DPI Worldwide, LLC, we specialize in offering comprehensive services to simplify your experience, so you can focus on running your business.
- Support a Small Businesses (Like Yours): Hiring a small business to design your website can bring a more personalized touch to your project. Smaller web design businesses, like DPI Worldwide, LLC, understand the challenges small businesses face and are often more flexible and budget-friendly compared to large agencies. By partnering with another small business, you’re supporting the small business community and likely saving money in the process.
- Get It in Writing: Before starting your project, ask for a detailed written estimate that clearly defines the scope, timeline, and costs. Once everything is agreed upon, finalize the details with a written contract to ensure transparency and protect both parties. This simple step helps avoid misunderstandings down the road.
- Clarify Payment Terms: Discuss payment terms upfront to ensure there are no surprises later. Ask whether the designer requires a deposit, milestone payments, or full payment upon completion, and confirm which payment methods are accepted. Knowing this in advance helps you budget and keeps the project on track.
By understanding these pricing tiers and options, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right web designer for your local service business. Whether you’re looking for a simple one-page site or a more comprehensive multi-page design, knowing what to expect will help you plan your budget effectively.
