What’s the Real Cost of a Small Business Website?
Let’s be honest: website pricing can be confusing. Some providers charge $500. Others ask for $5,000. Then there are DIY platforms that promise to be “free” until the hidden fees add up.
So what should a small business really expect to pay for a website—and what should that price include? In this post, we’ll break down the cost factors, common pricing models, and how to avoid wasting money on a site that doesn’t deliver.
Understanding the True Value of a Website
A website isn’t just an expense—it’s an investment. When done right, your website becomes a tool that generates leads, builds trust, and helps you grow your business 24/7.
Think of it like this: Would you rather spend $1,000 on a site that just sits there, or $2,000 on one that brings in leads every week?
It’s not about the cheapest price. It’s about the best value for what your business actually needs.
3 Common Website Pricing Models (and What to Watch Out For)
1. DIY Builders (Wix, Squarespace, etc.)
2. Freelancers or One-Time Projects
3. All-In-One Website Packages (Like Ours)
Bottom line: Know what’s included, and make sure it aligns with your goals.
What’s Usually Included in Small Business Website Packages?
Every provider is different, but here’s what a quality package should include at a minimum:
Extras that may be included or added later:
If a package doesn’t include the basics above, it’s probably not worth your investment.
Avoiding Common Pricing Traps
1. “Free” Website Builders That Cost You Time
The platforms may be free, but your time isn’t. You’ll spend hours learning how to build, design, and troubleshoot—often with subpar results.
2. Agencies That Charge Monthly Just for Hosting
Some providers lock you into $200+/mo contracts with little to no updates or value. Ask: What exactly am I paying for every month?
3. Cheap One-Off Builds with No Strategy
A $500 website might seem like a steal—until you realize it wasn’t optimized for search, doesn’t work on mobile, and no one helps you when something breaks.
Choose a partner, not just a price tag.
Why Upfront + Monthly Packages Are Often Best
At Orbital Marketing Agency, we offer upfront setup with optional monthly plans. This gives you full ownership and functionality without being tied into an overpriced subscription.
Our model includes:
It’s transparent, affordable, and results-focused.
What If You Need Something Custom?
That’s totally fine—and expected. Every business has unique needs, and we’re happy to tailor your package to include:
Custom doesn’t mean complicated—it means your website fits you.
How to Know You’re Getting the Right Deal
Before you commit to any website service, ask these 5 questions: What’s included in the setup cost? Will I own my website once it’s live? Who do I contact for support and updates? Is the site built for SEO and mobile? Can I see examples of past work?
A good provider will answer all of these clearly—and confidently.
Let’s Build You a Website That Pays for Itself
We specialize in small business websites that are affordable, effective, and built to grow with you. No fluff. No hidden fees. Just results.
Schedule Your Free Custom Website Demonstration today and see exactly how your website can look—and perform—before you spend a penny.
So what should a small business really expect to pay for a website—and what should that price include? In this post, we’ll break down the cost factors, common pricing models, and how to avoid wasting money on a site that doesn’t deliver.
Understanding the True Value of a Website
A website isn’t just an expense—it’s an investment. When done right, your website becomes a tool that generates leads, builds trust, and helps you grow your business 24/7.
Think of it like this: Would you rather spend $1,000 on a site that just sits there, or $2,000 on one that brings in leads every week?
It’s not about the cheapest price. It’s about the best value for what your business actually needs.
3 Common Website Pricing Models (and What to Watch Out For)
1. DIY Builders (Wix, Squarespace, etc.)
- Advertised cost: $10–$30/month
- Real cost: $300–$1,000/year (plus your time)
- Risk: You do all the work. It’s time-consuming and lacks strategy.
2. Freelancers or One-Time Projects
- Typical cost: $1,000–$3,000+
- Risk: No support after launch, inconsistent quality, no strategy for growth
3. All-In-One Website Packages (Like Ours)
- Cost: $1,000–$2,000 setup + optional monthly services
- Value: Design, SEO, mobile, support, and updates all included
- Advantage: Built for results, not just appearance
Bottom line: Know what’s included, and make sure it aligns with your goals.
What’s Usually Included in Small Business Website Packages?
Every provider is different, but here’s what a quality package should include at a minimum:
- ✅ Custom design tailored to your brand
- ✅ Mobile optimization
- ✅ Basic on-page SEO
- ✅ Secure hosting and SSL certificate
- ✅ Google Maps, reviews, and contact forms
- ✅ Clear CTAs and lead capture tools
- ✅ Admin access or support team
Extras that may be included or added later:
- Blog integration
- Appointment booking
- Ecommerce or gift card sales
- CRM or form integrations
- Monthly SEO or content support
If a package doesn’t include the basics above, it’s probably not worth your investment.
Avoiding Common Pricing Traps
1. “Free” Website Builders That Cost You Time
The platforms may be free, but your time isn’t. You’ll spend hours learning how to build, design, and troubleshoot—often with subpar results.
2. Agencies That Charge Monthly Just for Hosting
Some providers lock you into $200+/mo contracts with little to no updates or value. Ask: What exactly am I paying for every month?
3. Cheap One-Off Builds with No Strategy
A $500 website might seem like a steal—until you realize it wasn’t optimized for search, doesn’t work on mobile, and no one helps you when something breaks.
Choose a partner, not just a price tag.
Why Upfront + Monthly Packages Are Often Best
At Orbital Marketing Agency, we offer upfront setup with optional monthly plans. This gives you full ownership and functionality without being tied into an overpriced subscription.
Our model includes:
- A complete setup fee ($1,000–$2,000 depending on needs)
- Optional monthly services: SEO, content updates, performance reports
- Free support during launch and onboarding
- Ability to scale up as your business grows
It’s transparent, affordable, and results-focused.
What If You Need Something Custom?
That’s totally fine—and expected. Every business has unique needs, and we’re happy to tailor your package to include:
- Local SEO for your city or industry
- Booking forms or client portals
- Blog or gallery features
- Integration with tools you already use (CRM, email, etc.)
Custom doesn’t mean complicated—it means your website fits you.
How to Know You’re Getting the Right Deal
Before you commit to any website service, ask these 5 questions: What’s included in the setup cost? Will I own my website once it’s live? Who do I contact for support and updates? Is the site built for SEO and mobile? Can I see examples of past work?
A good provider will answer all of these clearly—and confidently.
Let’s Build You a Website That Pays for Itself
We specialize in small business websites that are affordable, effective, and built to grow with you. No fluff. No hidden fees. Just results.
Schedule Your Free Custom Website Demonstration today and see exactly how your website can look—and perform—before you spend a penny.