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Quick Answer
When youre planning a 20-page website, you can expect costs to range from $2,000 to $20,000 depending on experience, complexity, and who builds it. How much should a 20-page website cost will hinge on features, design, and ongoing support. Think of it like buying a car: a basic model gets you from A to B, but premium options and custom paint jobs drive the price up.
Why Prices Vary
- Developer or Agency Rates: Freelancers charge $50–$150/hr, agencies $100–$300/hr.
- Complexity and Features: Custom design, e-commerce, booking systems can add $200–$2,000 per feature.
- Special Integrations: Custom APIs or third-party services often stretch development time (and cost).
- Geographic Location: Rates in major cities tend to be higher than remote or international teams.
Cost Breakdown
| Vendor / Approach | Price Range | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| DIY Website Builders | $0–$500 | Simple portfolios or blogs |
| Freelancer Custom Site | $2,000–$10,000 | Small businesses, basic needs |
| Professional Agency | $10,000–$35,000+ | Brands seeking premium experience |
This raises an important question: which approach aligns best with your timeline, budget, and quality expectations?
Ongoing Expenses
- Domain name: $10–$20 per year
- Hosting: $10–$50/month (basic) up to $400/month (high traffic)
- Maintenance & Updates: $50–$200+/month
- Support and Extras: $500–$2,000+/month (for agency retainers)
You might also wonder how these ongoing costs compare to a one-time build fee — they can add up to 20–30% of your initial budget each year.
Key Things to Remember
- Clarify your must-have features before you budget.
- Compare at least three proposals to find the best value.
- Balance upfront costs against long-term ROI.
- A well-built website is an investment, not just a one-off expense.
- Factor in maintenance, hosting, and domain fees when calculating total cost of ownership.
