Website Design Cost 2025: What Small Business Owners Actually Pay

August 3, 2025

Website Design Cost 2025: What Small Business Owners Actually Pay

Need to figure out website design costs for your small business in 2025? You're definitely not alone. A professional website is a vital investment in your business's future. Understanding the actual costs will help you create a realistic budget.

Australian businesses pay between $6,000 and $25,000+ for professional websites . These prices change substantially based on what you need. A basic static business website costs $3,000 to $5,000 . Business websites with strategic features run from $5,000 to $10,000 . E-commerce websites typically cost between $6,000 and $15,000 , while complex versions can reach $25,000 . Custom enterprise solutions start at $30,000 .

This piece breaks down the factors that affect website development costs and gives you a clear picture of what small business owners really pay in 2025. You'll learn practical strategies to maximize your website investment, whatever your budget looks like.

What small business websites actually cost in 2025

Small business website costs in 2025 vary widely based on complexity, features, and who builds them. Here's a clear breakdown of what you might pay for different types of websites.

Cost range for basic websites

A basic website works like a digital business card to show your key information without complex features. Small businesses that need a simple online presence can expect to pay between AUD 2,293 and AUD 7,645 for a basic business website ^[1]. You'll get:

Pre-built templates with your brand colors and logo
Simple pages (Home, About, Services, Contact)
Mobile-friendly design and SEO setup

You can cut down costs to AUD 0 - AUD 1,529 ^[2] with DIY platforms like Wix or Squarespace, but you'll pay monthly fees. A professional will need 30-40 hours to build a simple business website, which costs AUD 4,587 - AUD 10,703 ^[3].

Freelancers offer the most economical professional option, charging AUD 3,058 - AUD 7,645 ^[3] for a basic 5-page website.

Cost range for strategic websites

Strategic business websites do more than just show information - they turn visitors into customers through smart design and features.

A strategic business website with custom design elements costs AUD 7,645 - AUD 22,935 ^[1]. This investment gets you:

Custom design that matches your brand
Advanced tools to capture leads
Better SEO and faster loading times
Room to grow as your business expands

The planning phase takes 10-20 hours, which adds AUD 1,529 - AUD 6,116 to the total cost ^[3]. These websites work great for businesses that want to boost sales through digital marketing ^[4].

Cost range for ecommerce websites

Adding online selling features makes website development more expensive because of the extra complexity. Small business owners in 2025 will pay between AUD 12,232 - AUD 45,870 for a detailed e-commerce website ^[1].

Your final price depends on:

How many products you sell
Which payment systems you use
How you manage inventory
What customer account features you need

A simple online store needs 50-125 hours of development time, costing AUD 7,645 - AUD 38,225 ^[3]. Retailers typically pay AUD 3,058 - AUD 30,580 ^[2].

Platforms like Shopify and BigCommerce offer cheaper starting options with monthly payments. Your monthly costs include:

Domain name: AUD 15 - AUD 46 yearly
Web hosting: Comes with most platforms
SSL certificate: AUD 0 - AUD 306 yearly
Payment processing: 1% - 3% plus fixed fees per sale ^[5]

Cost range for custom websites

Custom and enterprise websites cost the most. These specially built solutions range from AUD 45,870 - AUD 152,899+ ^[1] and suit businesses that need specific features.

Custom systems like booking tools, customer portals, and membership sites start at AUD 45,870 ^[3]. Enterprise websites come with:

Advanced web tools and CRM systems
Reliable hosting setup
Custom design that grows with you
Extra security features

Adding AI tools, chatbots, or recommendation systems can cost an extra AUD 1,529 - AUD 15,290 ^[2].

These custom projects take longer to build, often needing more than 200 hours of professional development time ^[3].

What goes into the cost of a website

Small business owners need to know what makes up website design costs to make smart budget decisions. A professional website comes together in several phases, and each one adds to the final cost. Let's get into what it takes to create a website and how different elements affect your budget.

Planning and strategy

The foundation of any successful website starts with proper planning. This original phase makes up 10-15% of your total project cost ^[6] and helps avoid expensive changes later. Web designers will work with you to understand your business goals, target audience, and what technical features you need.

You should expect to spend between AUD 764 and AUD 3,058 ^[1] on planning. This covers your meetings, research, site structure, and mapping out the user's experience. Some design firms will charge AUD 100 to AUD 300 ^[3] per hour for the first meetings, while others include this in the total project price.

Design and user experience

The design phase turns your plans into visual blueprints that will shape how well your website converts visitors. Much of your budget goes into this stage, with costs between AUD 1,529 and AUD 7,645 ^[1].

You'll need to choose between template or custom design. Template designs cost about AUD 3,058 to AUD 4,587 ^[6], while custom designs need a bigger investment—usually AUD 7,645 to AUD 22,935 ^[6] for small business websites.

UX design prices range from AUD 1,500 to AUD 5,000 ^[3], based on how complex your website needs to be. This investment gives you an accessible and user-friendly site that keeps visitors interested.

Development and coding

Developers turn approved designs into working websites through code and technical work. This takes the biggest chunk of your budget, ranging from AUD 4,587 to AUD 15,290+ ^[1].

Development costs break down into:

Front-end development (user interface): AUD 3,000 to AUD 15,000 ^[3]
Back-end development (server operations): AUD 3,000 to AUD 20,000+ ^[3]
Third-party integrations: AUD 500 to AUD 5,000 ^[3]

Special features like booking systems, member areas, or unique functions can add AUD 1,000 to AUD 10,000+ ^[3] to your development costs.

Content creation and SEO

Good content helps engage visitors and boost search rankings. Professional writers charge between AUD 100 and AUD 500 per page ^[3], depending on what you need. Custom images and videos might add another AUD 500 to AUD 5,000 ^[3] to the total.

This phase typically runs between AUD 764 and AUD 4,587 ^[1], which includes writing, images, and basic SEO work. SEO services cost AUD 500 to AUD 3,000 ^[3] for initial optimization, while monthly ongoing work ranges from AUD 458 to AUD 5,351 ^[7].

Testing and launch

Your website needs thorough testing across devices and browsers before going live. This vital step costs between AUD 764 and AUD 2,293 ^[1], about AUD 400 to AUD 2,000 ^[8] of your total budget.

Testing looks at:

Feature functionality
Navigation ease
Website speed and response times

Launch involves moving your site from testing to live servers and making final tweaks before public release.

Project management

Good project management is vital to website success and adds 10-15% to total project costs ^[6]. This service ranges from AUD 764 to AUD 3,058 ^[1] and helps prevent delays, confusion, and budget issues.

Project managers keep your team aligned and you informed throughout the process. They schedule regular updates and become your main contact point, making sure everything moves smoothly from start to finish.

These six components explain the wide range in website costs and help you plan your budget effectively.

Breakdown of essential website costs

Your website needs more than just design and development to stay up and running securely. Here's a breakdown of the ongoing costs you'll need to budget for your small business in 2025.

Domain name and SSL certificate

Think of your domain name as your business's online address. Domain registration costs AUD 15.29 to AUD 53.51 per year ^[9]. Many hosting providers give you free domain registration in the first year, but you'll need to pay renewal fees to keep it.

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates are vital for website security and building customer trust. These certificates protect data moving between your site and its visitors. This protection becomes even more important if you collect personal information or handle payments.

Here's what different SSL levels will cost you:

Basic SSL certificates: AUD 0 (free) to AUD 30.58 ^[10]
Standard business SSL: AUD 30.58 to AUD 155.96 ^[11]
Extended validation SSL: AUD 214.06 to AUD 382.25 ^[11]

The good news is that many hosting providers include basic SSL certificates in their packages, which saves you money.

Web hosting options

Web hosting gives your website files a home online. The prices vary based on your traffic and technical needs:

Shared hosting: AUD 3.82 to AUD 45.87 per month ^[9] (works well for small sites with moderate traffic)
VPS hosting: AUD 22.86 to AUD 152.90 per month ^[4] (better for growing businesses)
Dedicated hosting: AUD 152.90 to AUD 764.50 per month ^[12] (gives you full control and resources)
Cloud hosting: AUD 45.87 to AUD 611.60 per month ^[12] (offers great scalability and reliability)

Most new website owners start with shared hosting because it's economical. You can always upgrade as your traffic grows. Good hosting services come with 24/7 support, security features, and automatic backups.

CMS or website builder

Content Management Systems (CMS) and website builders let you update and manage your site without technical knowledge.

WordPress leads the pack as the most popular CMS and it's free to install, but you'll need separate hosting. Website builders like Wix, Squarespace, or Hostinger Website Builder combine hosting and software in one package:

Website builder plans: AUD 22.93 to AUD 30.58 per month ^[9] for versions without ads
WordPress hosting: AUD 4.57 to AUD 71.65 per month ^[4] based on features

Free options exist but they usually show the provider's branding and limit what you can do. Business websites typically need paid plans to look professional.

Stock images and media

Quality visuals make your site more effective. Free image sources are available but often lack quality or have copyright issues. Here are your options:

Royalty-free stock images: AUD 15.29 to AUD 68.80 per image ^[13]
Professional photography: AUD 76.45 per image to AUD 15,289.90 for a full day shoot ^[9]
Print-quality files: AUD 61.16 to AUD 229.35 ^[13] for high-resolution usage

Some website builders include stock image libraries in their subscription costs, which helps save money compared to buying images one by one.

Plugins and integrations

Plugins and integrations add features to your website without custom coding. These costs can add up:

Essential plugins: AUD 76.45 to AUD 764.50 annually ^[1]
E-commerce plugins: AUD 133.02 to AUD 966.32 per year ^[14]
Marketing tools: AUD 91.74 to AUD 334.85 quarterly ^[14]

You'll find plugins with both subscription models and one-time payments. Premium themes cost AUD 45.87 to AUD 305.80 ^[15] but often reduce your need for multiple plugins.

These ongoing expenses make up about 25-30% of your annual website budget. Investing in quality components helps you avoid expensive downtime and security problems later.

Factors that influence website development cost

Your website's price isn't set in stone. It changes based on several key factors. You can make better choices about where to spend and save money when you know what these factors are.

Number of pages

Page count used to drive website costs, but things are different now. Modern platforms like WordPress have changed how page numbers relate to overall costs ^[5].

Every website project starts with a base cost. Even small sites need basic theme parts—headers, footers, menus, and various templates—that work on all screen sizes ^[5]. The core setup costs stay about the same.

All the same, having many pages adds to the cost through:

More complex information structure (especially with hundreds of pages)
Extra custom templates beyond the basics
Moving content costs during redesigns
Different content parts for various layouts ^[5]

Small business owners should know that a 5-10 page site costs less than a 50-page website with many product categories and interactive features ^[16].

Custom vs template design

Choosing between custom design and templates is one of the biggest factors in website cost.

Custom websites give you complete creative freedom and unique features. They work best for businesses with specific needs or strong brands ^[17]. Your site can grow as needed, rank better in search engines, and give users a better experience ^[17]. The downside? Higher upfront costs—between AUD 3,057.98 to AUD 15,289.90 for the first build ^[18].

Templates offer a budget-friendly choice with clear benefits:

Much lower starting costs (some as low as AUD 38.22 one-time) ^[18]
Faster setup and launch
Ready-made features like contact forms and galleries ^[17]

Your business needs will help you decide—templates are great for simple information sites, while custom designs suit businesses that need specific features or want to stand out.

Level of interactivity

Interactive features can really drive up website development costs. Each extra interactive element makes the site more complex and takes longer to build ^[19].

Basic interactive parts like image sliders, dropdown menus, and contact forms don't cost much extra ^[2]. But features like live chat, user content, or custom animations need more skilled developers ^[2].

Interactive websites usually fall into these price ranges:

Basic interactive website: AUD 1,528.99 – AUD 7,644.95 ^[2]
Mid-range interactive website: AUD 7,644.95 – AUD 30,579.80 ^[2]
Complex interactive website: AUD 30,579.80+ ^[2]

More interactive features mean more development time and specialized skills, which affects your final cost.

Third-party integrations

Linking your website to other systems or services makes development more complex and expensive ^[20]. These connections need special skills and thorough testing to work right.

Website costs go up when you add:

CRM platforms and marketing automation tools
Payment systems and inventory managers
Accounting software and shipping services ^[21]

Custom API connections take lots of development time and expertise ^[21]. Many third-party tools also come with ongoing fees based on how much you use them ^[21].

These integrations make up a big part of website costs, especially for online stores or membership sites.

Mobile responsiveness

Mobile devices generate over 60% of web traffic, so responsive design is a must ^[3]. It affects how people interact with your brand online and helps your search rankings.

Responsive design does more than just make your site mobile-friendly. Your site automatically adjusts its layout, images, and features to fit any screen size ^[3].

Mobile responsiveness adds to development costs through:

Making all design elements responsive
Testing on different devices
Making the site fast on mobile networks ^[3]

The good news? Responsive design saves money over time—you only need to maintain one site instead of separate mobile and desktop versions ^[22]. Basic mobile responsiveness adds AUD 764.50 to AUD 3,057.98 to your costs, while mobile-first designs can add AUD 3,057.98 to AUD 7,644.95 ^[23].

These five factors help you spot what might increase your website costs and where you can save money without cutting corners.

Freelancer vs agency: what small businesses pay

The cost of your website design largely depends on whether you choose a freelancer or an agency. This decision will not only affect your budget but also ended up determining the quality and functionality of your final website.

Typical freelancer rates

Freelance web designers charge between AUD 38 to AUD 153 per hour ^[24], and the average rate sits at AUD 115 per hour ^[25]. They also offer project-based pricing:

Standard 5-page website: AUD 764 to AUD 2,500 ^[7]
Small business website: AUD 3,000 to AUD 5,000 ^[7]
E-commerce store: AUD 2,000 to AUD 5,000 ^[7]

Small businesses with tight budgets often prefer freelancers since they charge 30-50% less than agencies ^[7].

What agencies charge

Design agencies set higher rates that range from AUD 115 to AUD 306+ per hour ^[24]. Their complete project charges look like this:

Basic website (5 pages): AUD 3,000 to AUD 5,000 ^[7]
Small business website: AUD 5,000 to AUD 7,000 ^[7]
E-commerce store: AUD 5,000 to AUD 10,000 ^[7]

Their ongoing maintenance through monthly retainers costs between AUD 1,529 to AUD 15,290 ^[24], based on service levels.

Pros and cons of each

Freelancers keep costs down because they have minimal overhead ^[26]. You get to communicate with the designer directly ^[7] and enjoy more flexible scheduling ^[7]. However, they might struggle with large projects ^[7] and could become unavailable without notice ^[7].

Agencies give you access to different specialists ^[24], follow well-laid-out processes ^[7], and offer reliable service through contracts ^[7]. They also provide detailed support packages ^[7]. The biggest drawback? They cost by a lot more ^[7].

When to choose which

A freelancer might be your best bet if:

You need a simple, straightforward project done ^[27]
Your budget is tight ^[27]
You can be flexible with timelines ^[27]
You need expertise in one specific area ^[24]

An agency makes more sense when:

Your project needs multiple experts ^[27]
You want quick results ^[27]
You need guaranteed reliability ^[7]
You're looking for a long-term partner ^[27]

Your specific business needs, project complexity, and budget should guide your final choice.

How to reduce your website design cost

Want to cut your website design costs without compromising on quality? Here are practical ways small business owners can reduce their website design expenses in 2025.

Use pre-made templates

Pre-made templates are a great way to save money compared to custom designs. You'll pay between AUD 30.58 to AUD 91.74 as a one-time fee for template websites ^[28]. This is much cheaper than custom designs that start at AUD 3,057.98 ^[29]. Templates come with simple layouts that save development time ^[28]. Many include built-in features like contact forms and galleries ^[28]. Small businesses with straightforward needs can get a professional look without breaking the bank ^[30].

Write your own content

Writing website content yourself is one of the easiest ways to cut costs. Professional copywriters charge AUD 100 to AUD 500 per page, so doing it yourself saves money right away ^[31]. The key is to know your target audience well. Keep your writing conversational and break text into short paragraphs that are easy to read ^[31]. Just make sure to proofread everything carefully ^[31].

Limit initial features

Your initial development costs stay under control when you start with core functionality. You should identify must-have pages and features early to avoid expensive changes down the road ^[32]. The smart move is to put your money into critical components first ^[33]. Your business can add more complex features as it grows ^[33]. This step-by-step approach helps you avoid spending on features you don't need yet ^[34].

Choose scalable platforms

The right platform choice leads to long-term savings. Open-source CMS platforms like WordPress give you flexibility without charging licensing fees ^[31]. These platforms grow with your business so you won't need complete redesigns later ^[29]. Cloud-based solutions let you pay only for what you use, which helps optimize costs ^[35]. A scalable foundation today prevents expensive platform changes tomorrow.

Bundle services with one provider

Working with one provider for multiple services often unlocks big discounts. You can get website design, SEO, maintenance, and digital marketing in bundled packages that cost less than buying each service separately ^[8]. Getting individual services creates more paperwork and usually costs more ^[8]. Bundled services help keep your brand message consistent across digital channels ^[8]. Look for providers who offer complete packages that match your business goals.

Conclusion

A website is a big investment for any small business owner. Website costs in 2025 show wide variations based on complexity, functionality, and who builds it. Simple websites start at AUD 2,293, and this is a big deal as it means that custom enterprise solutions can reach AUD 150,000.

Your budget matters, but knowing what affects website costs helps you make smarter decisions. Each part of the process shapes your total investment - from original planning and design to regular costs like hosting and maintenance.

Small business owners often choose between hiring a freelancer or partnering with an agency. Freelancers cost 30-50% less, yet agencies provide detailed services with better reliability. Project complexity, timeline needs, and your budget will shape this choice.

Budget-friendly strategies can help small business owners. You can streamline costs without losing quality by using pre-made templates, creating your own content, focusing on core features, picking expandable platforms, and combining services.

Note that your website works as your storefront in the digital world. Cost is important, but we focused on building a professional online presence that turns visitors into customers. A well-laid-out website generates enough sales and credibility to cover its costs.

Your website project needs balance between current budget limits and future business goals. Higher upfront investment often brings better returns through improved performance and lower maintenance costs. Your website stands as one of your business's most valuable marketing tools.

Key Takeaways

Understanding website design costs in 2025 helps small business owners budget effectively and make informed decisions about their digital investment.

• Small business websites range from AUD 2,293 for basic sites to AUD 152,899+ for custom solutions, with strategic websites costing AUD 7,645-22,935.

• Freelancers charge 30-50% less than agencies (AUD 38-153/hour vs AUD 115-306+/hour) but agencies offer comprehensive teams and reliability.

• Essential ongoing costs include domain registration (AUD 15-54/year), hosting (AUD 46-765/month), and SSL certificates (free to AUD 382/year).

• Reduce costs by using pre-made templates, writing your own content, limiting initial features, and bundling services with one provider.

• Focus on creating a professional online presence that converts visitors into customers—your website is a valuable marketing asset that pays for itself through increased sales.

FAQs

Q1. How much does a small business website typically cost in 2025? Most small business websites cost between AUD 1,500 to AUD 15,000. The price varies based on factors like complexity, features, and whether you choose a freelancer or agency for development.

Q2. What are some ways to reduce website design costs? You can reduce costs by using pre-made templates, writing your own content, limiting initial features to essentials, choosing scalable platforms, and bundling services with one provider.

Q3. Is it better to hire a freelancer or an agency for website design? The choice depends on your specific needs. Freelancers are generally more affordable (30-50% less) and offer flexibility, while agencies provide comprehensive services and greater reliability. Consider your project complexity, timeline, and budget when deciding.

Q4. What ongoing costs should I expect for my website? Ongoing costs typically include domain registration (AUD 15-54/year), web hosting (AUD 46-765/month depending on your needs), and SSL certificates (free to AUD 382/year). You may also have expenses for content updates, security maintenance, and plugin subscriptions.

Q5. How does e-commerce functionality affect website cost? Adding e-commerce functionality significantly increases website costs due to the complexity involved. E-commerce websites for small businesses typically range from AUD 12,000 to AUD 45,000, depending on factors like the number of products, payment integrations, and inventory management requirements.

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12 Best Web Design Services for Small Business in 2025 (Expert Tested)

August 24, 2025

Looking for the perfect web design services for your small business? You're not alone — and the stakes are higher than you might expect. Your website serves as more than just a digital business card. It represents your business's face in the digital world, where 98% of consumers look up information about local businesses. The US online shopping market expects to reach 218.8 million shoppers in 2023. A complicated checkout process causes 21% of customers to abandon their carts. Your website's design plays a crucial role in your revenue generation. My experience spans hundreds of websites built for businesses of all sizes in the last decade. Small business website design doesn't need complexity. The best website developers understand your specific needs and goals. They create solutions that help you build trust and establish credibility with potential customers. This piece walks you through the 12 best small business website development options for 2025, each tested and verified by experts. You'll find options that match your needs, whether you want affordable or professional web design services with all the features. We've explored everything from Wix's user-friendly interface to Squarespace for service-based businesses and Shopify for eCommerce. This comprehensive overview will help you choose the right platform. Squarespace Squarespace stands out as an all-in-one website builder that blends stunning design with business functionality. My experience with web design services for small business shows that Squarespace delivers professional results even if you have limited technical expertise. Squarespace key features Squarespace has a complete suite of tools that are valuable for small business website development: Award-winning templates with customizable content areas for professional-looking designs Unlimited storage and bandwidth on all plans Mobile-responsive sites that automatically adjust to any device Fully integrated e-commerce capabilities on most plans Drag-and-drop editor to customize without coding SEO tools including customizable metadata and sitemaps Blueprint AI to help build a stylish website in minutes Acuity Scheduling tool to manage bookings and appointments Squarespace has marketing tools like email campaigns, promotional pop-ups, and social media integration to grow your business online. Squarespace pros and cons Pros: Create professional websites with limited design skills Accessible interface with natural drag-and-drop functionality All-in-one solution with hosting , domain, and email Excellent security with SSL certificates included No plugins needed, which reduces security vulnerabilities Cons: No phone support, just chat and email assistance No free plan, unlike some competitors Limited customization on the Personal plan (no CSS/JavaScript) Loading speeds can be slower than competitors Limited to one sub-navigation menu Squarespace pricing Squarespace has four pricing tiers with monthly or annual billing options. Annual payments range from AUD 24.46 to AUD 79.51 per month: Personal Plan : AUD 24.46/month - simple website features, no e-commerce Business Plan : AUD 38.22/month - adds e-commerce with 3% transaction fee Basic Commerce : AUD 51.99/month - zero transaction fees, point-of-sale capability Advanced Commerce : AUD 79.51/month - additional features like abandoned cart recovery Each plan comes with a 14-day free trial. Annual plans include a free custom domain for the first year. Squarespace best for My experience shows that Squarespace excels in specific small business website development needs: Service-based businesses like salons, gyms, and financial services Creative professionals including artists, photographers, and designers Small e-commerce stores with limited product lines Restaurants and local businesses that need location management Businesses valuing design esthetics over complex functionality Squarespace shines especially when you have an elegant website that balances professional design with user-friendly tools. The all-in-one approach eliminates the need to manage multiple services. This makes it perfect for time-conscious small business owners who want professional web design services. Shopify Shopify stands out as a powerful ecommerce platform that small businesses choose to sell online. My experience shows how entrepreneurs have grown their product-based businesses using Shopify's detailed tools and accessible interface. Shopify key features Shopify provides a complete ecommerce ecosystem for small business website development: AI-powered design tools that generate tailored themes and product listings World-class checkout system that converts 15% better than other platforms Unlimited product listings and bandwidth across all plans Integrated payment processing through Shopify Payments or 100+ third-party providers Point-of-sale integration that syncs online and physical store inventory Mobile-responsive designs from 100+ professionally designed themes Built-in marketing tools including email campaigns and abandoned cart recovery Extensive app store with 8,000+ third-party applications 24/7 customer support via email, live chat, and phone On top of that, it lets you access your site's API to customize features as your business grows. Shopify pros and cons Pros: Simple interface that non-technical users love Detailed security with PCI compliance built-in Discounted shipping rates from major carriers Smooth integration with social media, marketplaces, and in-person selling No transaction fees with Shopify Payments Cons: Extra transaction fees (0.5%-2%) with third-party payment processors Monthly costs rise with premium apps and themes Simple blogging features compared to dedicated CMS platforms Custom changes might need knowledge of Liquid (Shopify's templating language) Moving to other platforms can be tough Shopify pricing Shopify's plans come with annual billing discounts. Current pricing (as of August 2025): Basic: AUD 44.34/month (annual) or AUD 64.22/month (monthly) - ideal for new businesses Grow: AUD 120.79/month (annual) or AUD 174.30/month (monthly) - for small teams Advanced: AUD 457.17/month (annual) or AUD 658.99/month (monthly) - for scaling businesses Plus: Starting at USD 2,300/month - for enterprise-level needs New users can try Shopify at AUD 1.53/month for three months. Shopify best for My work with website developers for small business shows Shopify works best for: Product-based businesses selling physical or digital goods Omnichannel retailers needing integrated online and offline sales Growing businesses that plan to scale quickly Entrepreneurs looking for an all-in-one ecommerce solution Businesses with international customers as Shopify supports multiple currencies and languages Shopify shines brightest for serious ecommerce operations where professional web design services balance looks with strong selling features. Businesses of any size—from startups to enterprises—benefit from its flexible nature, though you'll get the best value once you process a good volume of orders. Webflow Webflow equips small businesses with unmatched design control. It stands out as a visual development platform rather than a simple website builder. After testing dozens of platforms, I'd say Webflow hits the sweet spot between drag-and-drop simplicity and developer-level customization. Webflow key features Webflow stands apart from other small business website development tools through its powerful visual editor: Visual design interface that gets you clean HTML, CSS, and JavaScript automatically Reliable content management system that lets businesses handle dynamic content easily Custom animations and interactions without coding knowledge Reusable design components that keep your brand consistent across your site Built-in SEO tools with customizable meta tags and automatic sitemaps Integrated hosting powered by Amazon Web Services and Fastly CDN E-commerce capabilities with customizable product pages and checkout experiences No-plugin architecture that creates stable websites with fewer security risks Your websites adapt automatically to mobile devices, which ensures a smooth experience on all screen sizes. Webflow pros and cons Pros: Complete creative control without coding requirements Immediate visual editing with instant preview of changes Optimized workflow that saves development time Features that make team projects easier Great hosting performance with quick loading times Clean, semantic code that boosts SEO performance Cons: Learning curve steeper for beginners Pricing structure more complex than competitors Desktop-only editing limits mobile use Fewer third-party integrations than other platforms E-commerce works with Stripe payments only Webflow pricing Webflow's pricing comes in several tiers: Site Plans: Range from free (limited to 2 pages) to Business at AUD 74.92/month Basic: AUD 27.52/month - static sites without CMS CMS: AUD 44.34/month - has content management system Ecommerce Plans: For online stores Standard: AUD 64.22/month - up to 500 products Plus: AUD 128.44/month - up to 5,000 products Advanced: AUD 359.31/month - up to 15,000 products Workspace Plans: For design teams and agencies, starting at AUD 24.46/month Each paid plan comes with unlimited backups, SSL certificates, and CDN-powered hosting. Webflow best for My experience with website design for small business shows Webflow works best for: Design-focused businesses that need visual impact without losing functionality Marketing websites that don't need complex development Portfolio websites that showcase creative professionals and agencies Small to mid-sized businesses that want full control over their brand experience Service-based companies looking to stand out with custom animations and interactions Webflow excels when businesses put extra time into design. This investment leads to distinctive websites that turn visitors into customers. WordPress.org WordPress.org powers over 43% of all websites on the internet. This makes it the most popular website building platform. Small businesses can have complete control over their digital presence with this self-hosted solution. WordPress.org key features Small businesses can enjoy great flexibility through WordPress.org 's open-source foundation: Complete customization with thousands of themes and 59,000+ free plugins Full ownership of website content and user data Unlimited design flexibility without platform restrictions Resilient content management with a user-friendly dashboard that makes updates easy Advanced SEO capabilities built into the core platform Multilingual support with availability in over 70 languages Extensive import tools for migrating from other platforms Mobile-responsive designs across most modern themes The platform comes with simple updates, customizable permalinks, and an active global community that keeps making improvements. WordPress.org pros and cons Pros: The core software is free Your website grows with your business You can monetize without sharing revenue WooCommerce and other plugins provide strong eCommerce features Search engines prefer its clean code and logical structure Cons: You need separate web hosting (AUD 4.59–AUD 15.29 monthly) Setup requires manual installation (many hosts offer one-click setup) You must handle updates and security maintenance New users might need time to learn the system Its popularity attracts hackers (security measures needed) WordPress.org pricing WordPress.org has a simple cost structure: Core software : Free and open-source Domain name : Around AUD 19.86/year for .com.au domains Web hosting : Starts at AUD 6.04/month with providers like Crazy Domains Themes : Free options exist, premium themes cost AUD 3-305 Plugins : Many free choices, premium plugins vary in price WPBeginner says you can build a simple WordPress site for about AUD 70.33 per year using free themes and plugins. WordPress.org best for My client projects show WordPress.org works best for: Growing businesses that need flexible website solutions Content-driven websites like blogs, news sites, and portfolios eCommerce operations using WooCommerce Membership sites that sell premium content or online courses Businesses that want full control of their web presence and data WordPress.org remains the top choice for 99% of small businesses. Its flexibility, ownership benefits, and room for growth make it stand out. Hostinger Hostinger brings together budget-friendly web hosting and powerful website building tools. Small business owners who watch their spending will find this an excellent choice. My tests of website developers showed that Hostinger's combined tools work best when you start your first online business. Hostinger key features Hostinger provides a detailed set of tools for small business websites: AI website builder that creates complete sites in minutes with layouts, images, and text Drag-and-drop editor with grid-based interface to place content easily Custom control panel (hPanel) that works better than traditional cPanel Free domain included with annual plans Auto Installer for one-click installation of WordPress and other CMSs Built-in marketing tools including Google Analytics and Meta Pixel integration AI tools for blog generation, image creation, and content writing (on Business plan) E-commerce capabilities supporting up to 500 products with no transaction fees Hostinger's platform includes a royalty-free photo library and simple photo editing options with background removal. Hostinger pros and cons Pros: Budget-friendly starting price for professional web design services Reliable uptime with 99% or higher stability Quick load times powered by LiteSpeed web servers User-friendly interface perfect for beginners Global data centers boost performance 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans Cons: Support limited to chat and email Email options fall short compared to cPanel Shared hosting plans face occasional downtime Renewal prices jump up by a lot from intro rates Large businesses won't find dedicated hosting options Hostinger pricing These budget-friendly website solutions fit most needs: Premium Website Builder : AUD 4.57/month (48-month term) with 3 months free; renews at AUD 16.80/month Business Website Builder : AUD 6.10/month (48-month term) with 3 months free; renews at AUD 21.39/month Cloud Startup : AUD 12.22/month (48-month term) with 3 months free; renews at AUD 39.74/month Annual plans come with free domains, SSL certificates, and different levels of storage and website allowances. Hostinger best for My evaluation of budget-friendly web design services shows Hostinger works great for: First-time website owners who need simple guidance Budget-conscious entrepreneurs looking for professional results at low cost Small businesses that want to try different website types Content creators who need blogging features Small online stores with modest product lists Hostinger strikes the perfect balance between cost and features. Small businesses can build their online presence without spending too much money. Ghost Ghost delivers a focused platform that excels at blog and newsletter management for professional publishers and content creators. My extensive testing of website solutions shows Ghost as a powerful yet straightforward platform for businesses that need content marketing capabilities. Ghost key features Ghost distinguishes itself from other small business website platforms through its publishing-first approach: Modern publishing tools with a clean, distraction-free editor that supports rich media and dynamic content cards Newsletter system built right into the platform that allows segmented audience targeting Membership management that turns anonymous visitors into logged-in members Native analytics that gives detailed engagement metrics about your audience Custom design options that give you complete control over branding and hundreds of marketplace themes Fast performance built on Node.js backend that delivers exceptional speed compared to other CMS options Ghost's content creation environment has everything from simple text formatting to galleries, videos, products, and downloadable files - without a cluttered interface. Ghost pros and cons Pros: Clean, minimalist interface that puts content creation first Built-in SEO features with sitemaps and canonical tags You keep 100% of your subscription revenue with zero transaction fees Better speed and performance than heavier CMS platforms Markdown editor makes content creation simple Cons: Fewer plugins than platforms like WordPress New users familiar with simpler platforms need time to adjust Self-hosted version needs technical know-how for maintenance Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors Publishing focus might restrict other website features Ghost pricing Ghost comes with hosted and self-hosted options at clear price points: Starter : AUD 22.93/month (billed yearly) - has 1 staff user, 1,000 members Publisher : AUD 44.34/month (yearly) - adds 3 staff users, custom themes, paid subscriptions Business : AUD 304.27/month (yearly) - expands to 15 staff users, 10,000 members, priority support Custom : Tailored pricing that meets complex needs with unlimited members and staff New users can try Ghost free and get 50% off for the first three months. Ghost best for My evaluation of professional web design services shows Ghost works best for: Content-focused businesses that put blogging and publishing first Newsletter creators who want direct reader relationships Membership businesses that offer premium content subscriptions Professional bloggers moving away from revenue-sharing platforms Small magazines and digital publications that need multiple contributors Ghost works exceptionally well for businesses committed to content marketing and those who want to monetize their expertise through subscriptions instead of traditional e-commerce. Kajabi Kajabi stands out as an all-in-one knowledge commerce platform that transforms expertise into profitable digital products. My experience with website development solutions of all sizes shows that Kajabi provides exceptional value to anyone who wants to monetize their knowledge. Kajabi key features Kajabi has a complete suite of tools with a social-first approach to digital product creation and marketing: AI content assistant that makes course creation easier with automatic outline generation Resilient product builder to create online courses, memberships, communities, and coaching programs Built-in email marketing with automation capabilities to boost audience participation Ready-made sales funnels (called pipelines) to automate marketing campaigns Website builder with customizable templates that need no coding skills Integrated payment processing without revenue sharing or transaction fees on sales Detailed analytics to track student progress and business performance Mobile app that lets creators and customers access content on the go Kajabi pros and cons Pros: You own your content and revenue completely (no sharing) One solution eliminates the need for multiple tools Customer support runs 24/7 through chat and email A thriving community of creators helps with networking and learning Course creation adapts to different teaching styles Cons: Costs more than simpler platforms Beginners face a steeper learning curve Complex data collection needs more field forms Asset management lacks a central media library The platform doesn't suit physical product sales Kajabi pricing Kajabi comes with four pricing tiers and annual discount options: Kickstarter: AUD 136.08/month or AUD 108.56/month billed annually - perfect for beginners Basic: AUD 227.82/month or AUD 181.95/month annually - has 3 products, 10,000 contacts Growth: AUD 304.27/month or AUD 243.11/month annually - most popular plan with 15 products Pro: AUD 610.07/month or AUD 487.75/month annually - advanced features for established businesses Kajabi best for My testing of professional web design services for small business shows Kajabi excels for: Knowledge entrepreneurs who sell online courses and digital products Coaches and consultants ready to scale their expertise Content creators who need integrated marketing tools Businesses that require membership and community features Entrepreneurs who want 100% ownership of their digital product revenue Kajabi proves its worth when you need to blend content creation, marketing, and sales in one cohesive platform. Square Square has grown beyond its roots as a payment processor. The platform now offers a complete web design solution that helps small businesses connect their online and physical stores. My experience shows its all-in-one approach works best when you have retailers and restaurants that need to manage sales through different channels. Square key features Square's website builder stands out with these powerful capabilities for small business websites: Seamless integration between online stores and Square POS systems Inventory synchronization across sales channels to prevent overselling Built-in SEO tools to boost search engine visibility Unlimited product listings even on the free plan Multiple fulfillment options including in-store pickup, local delivery, and shipping Customer accounts that let shoppers track orders and manage loyalty rewards Social media selling integration to reach more customers Square pros and cons Pros: Perfect match for businesses running both physical and online stores Rich features in the free plan without monthly fees Quick setup that needs no design or coding skills Built-in security with SSL certification and encryption Cons: Design flexibility lags behind dedicated website builders Performance drops during peak traffic times Transaction fees apply to all plans (rates vary by tier) Commerce focus limits other website features Square pricing Square keeps pricing simple with three main tiers: Free : AUD 0.00/month with 2.2% per transaction Plus : AUD 55.04/month (billed annually) with 2.2% per transaction Premium : AUD 151.37/month (billed annually) with reduced 1.9% transaction fee Square best for My testing of professional web design services shows Square excels for: Small retail businesses that need unified online/offline inventory Restaurants wanting online ordering with in-store pickup Service providers who take appointments and payments Businesses that value payment processing over design flexibility Weebly Weebly helps small businesses create websites easily with its simple drag-and-drop platform. More than 40 million entrepreneurs have built their online presence using this service. Weebly key features Weebly balances simplicity with powerful functionality: Drag-and-drop editor lets you place elements without technical skills Website building happens right in your web browser High-quality video backgrounds from Weebly's free library Customizable image and color backgrounds Built-in e-commerce with shopping cart features Support for multiple payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, and Square Weebly pros and cons Pros: Simple interface that beginners love Free plan to test or build basic websites Mobile app to manage your site anywhere SEO tools with meta tags and URLs Cons: Less design flexibility than competitors Few new features added over time Only 50+ themes while other platforms offer thousands Free plan websites show ads Weebly pricing Weebly's four pricing tiers are straightforward: Free : AUD 0.00/month - has 500MB storage and basic features Personal : AUD 15.29/month (annual) - adds custom domain connection Professional : AUD 18.35/month (annual) - removes Square ads, adds unlimited storage Performance : AUD 39.75/month (annual) - has advanced e-commerce features Weebly best for My testing of web design services shows Weebly works best for: Beginners launching their first business website Cost-conscious entrepreneurs who want simplicity Small blogs and portfolio sites Simple online stores with few products BigCommerce BigCommerce stands out with exceptional flexibility for businesses that need an open SaaS ecommerce solution. My tests with various website developers for small business show that this platform strikes a unique balance between SaaS convenience and open-source adaptability. BigCommerce key features Website customization through BigCommerce Stencil creates individual-specific storefronts Multi-storefront capabilities let you control several stores from one account Reliable SEO tools boost organic traffic Payment flexibility includes 65+ payment solutions without hidden transaction fees Extensive integrations connect with 600+ App Partners BigCommerce pros and cons Pros: Detailed suite of built-in tools Flexibility as with open-source platforms Strong customer support No transaction fees Cons: Advanced customization needs technical knowledge Beginners might find some features complex Standard plans have sales limits BigCommerce pricing Standard : AUD 44.34/month (annual) for sales up to AUD 76.45K Plus : AUD 120.79/month (annual) for sales up to AUD 275.22K Pro : AUD 457.17/month (annual) for sales up to AUD 611.60K Enterprise : Custom pricing for large-scale businesses BigCommerce best for Retail businesses with mobile display optimization needs thrive on BigCommerce. The platform serves B2B companies that manage multiple brands and ecommerce startups that need automated tools. This flexible solution fits businesses of all sizes that want professional web design services with reliable ecommerce capabilities. Conclusion Your small business success in the digital world depends on picking the right web design service. This piece explores 12 expert-tested platforms that offer unique strengths to match different business needs. Your specific requirements should guide your final choice. Squarespace works best for service-based businesses that want elegant design. Shopify dominates the ecommerce space. Webflow lets you control design without coding knowledge. WordPress.org gives you exceptional flexibility and ownership. Small business owners on a budget might find Hostinger or Weebly's affordable options work well. Content creators can thrive with Ghost's publishing-focused approach. Kajabi's all-in-one solution helps knowledge entrepreneurs sell digital products effectively. Square works best for businesses that need to combine online and offline sales. Here's the best part - creating a professional website doesn't have to break the bank. Most platforms offer free plans or budget-friendly starting points that expand with your business. Note that your website represents your business online and shapes how potential customers see you. My experience testing hundreds of websites on these platforms shows that simple solutions work best. Focus on your core business goals first. Think about your technical comfort level and pick a platform that makes functionality easy to use. These tested options can help your small business build a strong online presence. Key Takeaways Small business success in 2025 depends heavily on choosing the right web design platform that aligns with your specific needs and technical comfort level. • Match platform to business type : Squarespace excels for service businesses, Shopify dominates ecommerce, while WordPress.org offers maximum flexibility for growing companies. • Budget doesn't limit quality : Free and affordable options like Hostinger (AUD 4.57/month) and Weebly deliver professional results without breaking the bank. • Consider long-term scalability : Choose platforms that grow with your business— WordPress.org and Shopify offer the most expansion potential as you scale. • Prioritize ease of use over features : Simple platforms often outperform complex ones for small businesses, as user-friendly interfaces save time and reduce frustration. • All-in-one solutions reduce complexity : Platforms like Squarespace and Kajabi eliminate the need to manage multiple tools, streamlining your workflow and reducing costs. The key is starting with your core business goals and technical comfort level—your perfect web design solution exists among these tested options, ready to establish your professional online presence. FAQs Q1. Is web design still a viable business in 2025? Web design remains a thriving industry in 2025, with increasing demand for professional online presence across various sectors. The field offers ample opportunities for both experienced designers and newcomers looking to establish their agencies. Q2. What are the prominent web design trends in 2025? In 2025, we're seeing a resurgence of brutalist design principles adapted for modern web esthetics. This trend features bold typography, minimalist layouts, and raw design elements, contrasting with the polished, template-driven designs of recent years. Q3. Which website builder is most suitable for small businesses in Australia? Squarespace stands out as an excellent choice for small businesses in Australia, offering a comprehensive toolkit for blogging, personal branding, and business needs. Other top contenders include Wix for its small business features and WordPress with WPEngine for entrepreneurs seeking more flexibility. Q4. How can businesses choose the right web design platform in 2025? Selecting the ideal web design platform depends on your specific business needs, technical expertise, and growth plans. Consider factors like ease of use, scalability, built-in features, and integration capabilities. It's crucial to align the platform with your business type and long-term goals. Q5. Are there affordable web design options for small businesses in 2025? Yes, there are numerous cost-effective web design solutions available in 2025. Platforms like Hostinger and Weebly offer budget-friendly plans without compromising on professional quality. Many services also provide free plans or low-cost entry points that can grow with your business needs.

Website Design Cost 2025: What Small Business Owners Actually Pay