The Real Cost of Building a Website in 2024
How much does it really cost to build a website in 2024? The answer depends on whether you go DIY, hire a web development agency, or use AI-powered web development. Here’s a transparent breakdown of website cost, web design pricing, and how AI is changing the economics.
Traditional Agency Pricing
Custom website development from a full-service web development company often runs $5,000–$50,000+ depending on scope. A simple business website might be $5k–$15k; e-commerce or SaaS websites can reach $20k–$50k+. You’re paying for web design, web development, SEO, and project management. Quality is high, but website cost is a real investment.
DIY and Template Costs
DIY options include website builders (Wix, Squarespace, WordPress.com) at $15–$50/month, or WordPress with hosting and themes for a few hundred dollars upfront. You save money but invest your own time and often end up with a generic look or limited SEO and performance. Template websites are affordable but rarely stand out or convert like custom web design.
How AI Is Changing Website Cost
AI web development and AI-powered website development cut the hours needed to build a site, so web development pricing can drop without sacrificing quality. You still get custom website design, responsive design, and SEO-friendly code—but at affordable web development price points. Fixed website packages from $1,500–$10k are increasingly common for landing pages, business sites, and small e-commerce.
Ongoing Costs: Hosting, Maintenance, SEO
Beyond the build, budget for website hosting ($10–$50/month for most sites), domain ($10–$15/year), and optional website maintenance and SEO services. A web development agency may offer website support and updates as a retainer or per-project.
What You Get for Your Money
Whether you choose agency web development, DIY, or AI website development, clarify what’s included: number of pages, revisions, SEO setup, contact forms, analytics, and training. Transparent pricing and clear scope prevent surprises and help you compare website development cost fairly.
Summary
The real cost of a website in 2024 ranges from DIY budgets to premium custom development. AI-powered web development is opening a middle path: professional web development at affordable web design prices. When evaluating web design cost and website development prices, consider timeline, quality, and ongoing needs—then choose the option that fits your goals and budget.
Robin Studios
We build AI-powered websites that launch in 48-72 hours.