Web development
What affects the cost of a business website in the UK?
Website prices vary enormously. Here is what actually drives the cost, so you can compare quotes sensibly.
By Zafirox Tech Team · · 1 min read
When you ask three agencies for a website quote, you can easily get three very different numbers. That is not always because someone is overcharging. Websites are made of many decisions, and each one affects the price.
Scope: pages, features and content
A five-page brochure site and a site with online booking, customer accounts and a blog are very different projects. The more custom functionality you need, the more design, development and testing time is involved.
Design: template or bespoke
A well-chosen theme can be a sensible, cost-effective starting point. Bespoke design takes longer because layouts, components and responsive behaviour are created around your brand and users.
Platform and integrations
WordPress, Shopify and custom builds each have different cost profiles. Connecting to payment providers, CRMs, booking tools or stock systems adds work and ongoing considerations.
Content, photography and copywriting
Someone has to write the words and source the images. If you are supplying content, allow time for it. If you want it written for you, that is a separate piece of work worth budgeting for.
SEO, speed and accessibility
These are cheaper to build in than to bolt on later. Ask any agency how they handle them, and what is included.
Ongoing costs
Hosting, domain renewals, security updates, support and improvements all continue after launch. A good quote lists them clearly.
How to compare quotes
- Ask for a written scope listing pages, features and deliverables.
- Check what is included after launch: training, support, bug fixes.
- Confirm who owns the design files and code.
- Ask how success will be measured.
If you would like to talk through your own project, we are happy to give an honest view of what it involves.