This guide explains cost ranges, common pitfalls, questions to ask, and faster, risk-free options for small businesses in 2025.
"Budget" designers typically charge below-market rates — often freelance individuals, small micro-agencies, or design services on marketplaces. They focus on delivering a functional site quickly and cheaply, but the quality, support and SEO outcomes vary widely.
Basic pages (Home, About, Services, Contact), a standard template, simple contact form, and hosting setup if requested. Speed and support beyond handover varies.
Temporary landing pages, one-off promos, or businesses with a tiny budget and basic needs.
Prices vary by scope and region. Below are typical ranges and what to realistically expect at each price point.
Marketplace gigs for a basic single-page site or landing page. Often uses a stock template, minimal SEO, limited revisions.
Small customisations, a few pages, basic on-page SEO, and limited support. Many small businesses fall here.
Higher-quality freelancers and micro-agencies. Better UX, stronger SEO, and more reliable handover and support.
Hidden costs to watch for
Premium plugins, eCommerce setup, custom integrations, performance optimisation, and ongoing updates can push budgets higher. Ask for a breakdown before you sign.
Understand trade-offs so you pick the option that aligns with your goals — speed, price, or long-term growth.
Spot these warning signs before you pay — they predict trouble months later.
If they won't write down deliverables, timelines and costs, you risk scope creep and unexpected fees.
Ask for live examples of similar businesses. Stock screenshots or stolen designs are signs to walk away.
A launch without analytics is a guess. Ensure Google Analytics/GA4 and conversion tracking are included.
Confirm who owns the domain, hosting and site files. You should own your content and domain.
Use this checklist in your brief or interview to separate low-cost bargains from value-for-money hires.
No credit card • Live preview in under 60 seconds
If your business needs a reliable, converting website without the hiring risk, consider these options.
Use proven templates on platforms like WordPress or Shopify. Lower cost, but requires time and learning.
A flat monthly fee covers domain, hosting, maintenance and unlimited updates — ideal for trades and service businesses.
Start with a low-cost build and upgrade to professional optimisation later (SEO, CRO, performance).
Services that combine AI-driven builds with unlimited updates, local SEO and hosting for a predictable monthly price remove the typical risks of cheap designers: no surprise bills, ongoing optimisation and clear ownership.
If you want the speed and low cost of a budget designer without the usual downsides, consider an AI-powered managed website that includes hosting, SEO and unlimited edits for a flat monthly price.
If you value speed, predictable monthly costs, ongoing updates without invoices, and local search performance — managed AI sites (like Congero) are a compelling budget-friendly alternative to hiring a cheap freelancer.
Send this list as part of your brief or ask the designer to confirm each item in writing.
Short answers to the most common concerns about budget web designers and affordable alternatives.
Get a fully functional, mobile-responsive website live in 60 seconds with Congero's AI-powered process. Learn how it wor...
Read MoreLearn how to select, collaborate with, and maximise ROI from a design agency. This step-by-step guide covers definitions...
Read MoreDiscover affordable small business website design services that deliver professional, mobile-responsive sites with local...
Read MoreLearn how to get an affordable small business website that looks professional, ranks locally and costs just $49/month. S...
Read MoreEnter your name and number and we'll get you started immediately. Get your demo in 60 seconds.
