When you’re ready to launch a website for your business, one of the most common questions is: “How much does it cost to hire a web designer?”
Of course, the short answer is “It depends!” Websites will typically be quoted on a per-project basis or at an hourly rate.
Whether you’re a small business owner, a startup founder, or an established entrepreneur, the cost of web design can vary depending on the type of designer or agency you hire, the complexity of the project, and your specific business needs. In this post, we’ll break down your options and what you can reasonably expect to pay for each.
DIY, Freelancer, or Agency? Breaking down three options for getting your website up and running
When it comes to building a website, you have three main options: doing it yourself (DIY), hiring a freelancer, or partnering with a full-service marketing agency. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the cost will vary significantly depending on which route you take.
DIY websites: When should you DIY vs hiring someone?
If you’re just starting out and looking to save money, a DIY website might seem like the obvious choice. But is it the right option for everyone?
Advantages of DIY website design
- Cost-effective: The biggest benefit of DIY website builders like Wix or Squarespace is up-front affordability. You will usually pay nothing upfront, then just a small monthly fee (usually somewhere around $30/month) These platforms usually provide templates you can customize on your own.
- Full control: You have the flexibility to design and update the website at your own pace.
- Fast setup: With pre-built templates and drag-and-drop functionality, DIY websites can be up and running in just a few hours.
Disadvantages of DIY website design
While DIY websites are marketed as being cheap and quick, there are significant drawbacks that can impact your business:
- Sub-par results: If you lack design experience, your website may not look professional, which can turn off potential customers.
- Time-consuming: As a business owner, time is money. Building a website from scratch can take time away from running your business, which could cost you more in the long run.
- No strategy built into your design: A website isn’t just about looking good—it needs to be functional and optimized for conversions. Without an expert’s help, your site may lack the strategic elements needed to drive traffic and generate leads.
The cost of hiring a freelance web designer
For those who are ready to invest in a more professional site but are working within a limited budget, hiring a freelancer might be a good option.
Reasons to go the freelancing route
- Cost-effective for startups: Freelancers are generally more affordable than agencies, making them a good choice if you’re new in business or have a small budget.
- Flexibility: If you need a-la-carte services like logo design or web development but don’t need a full branding package, freelancers often offer customizable options.
- Direct communication: When you hire a freelancer, you’re working one-on-one, which can lead to better communication and faster turnarounds.
The downside of hiring a freelance web designer
- Potentially unreliable: Freelancers may take on multiple projects at once, making them prone to delays. There’s also a risk that a freelancer may disappear mid-project, leaving you in the lurch. Look for verified reviews and ask for references if you’re considering hiring a freelancer.
- Limited expertise: Freelancers tend to specialize in one or two areas, which means you might not get the full range of services as you would with a larger team.
Average rates for freelance web designers
Freelancers with years of experience or specialized skills will charge higher rates, while those newer to the industry may offer more affordable pricing. The average hourly rate for a freelance web designer can range anywhere from $50/hr to $300/hr, depending on their skill level and the scope of the project.
Average website package pricing: How complex is your project?
The cost of hiring a freelancer on a per-project basis also depends on the complexity of your website. A simple brochure website may cost between $2,500 and $5,000, while a more custom-designed e-commerce site with extensive features could run you upwards of $10,000-$20,000.
If those costs seem staggering, consider the opportunity cost of not having a professional website. You have approximately three seconds to make an impression when someone lands on your home page. Are you losing leads or opportunities due to poor aesthetics or unclear messaging?
The cost of partnering with a marketing agency
If you’re looking for a full-service experience with a team that can handle everything from design to digital marketing, hiring an agency might be the way to go.
The benefits of hiring a full-blown marketing agency
- Comprehensive services: Agencies typically offer a range of services beyond web design, including SEO, social media content creation, and ongoing website maintenance.
- Team of experts: You’ll get access to specialists in various fields such as UX design, development, and online marketing strategies, ensuring that your site is built with both aesthetics and functionality in mind.
- Long-term support: Agencies typically offer ongoing support to help maintain and update your website as your business grows.
The downside of working with a marketing agency
- Less personalization: Some agencies use templates and cookie-cutter designs, which may not give your business the unique look it deserves.
- One-size-fits-all approach: Agencies may follow a more standardized process that doesn’t cater to your specific brand’s needs.
Agency hourly rates vs. flat fees
Agencies typically charge by the hour or offer flat fees for projects. Hourly rates for agencies can range from $100 to $500 per hour, while flat fees for a website design project can vary from $5,000 to $50,000, depending on the scope of work.
The best of both worlds: Why you should hire a micro-agency
A middle ground between freelancers and full-blown agencies is a micro-agency, which often offers the best of both worlds.
What is a digital marketing micro-agency?
Micro-agencies are small teams of 2-10 people that typically provide more personalized service than larger agencies but still offer a broader range of expertise than a single freelancer.
- Better pricing: Micro-agencies are more affordable than larger agencies while still offering the range of services needed for a professional site.
- More personalized attention: They typically take on a limited number of clients, meaning you get more direct and focused attention on your project.
- Greater flexibility: With a micro-agency, you can often get a more customized package that fits your exact needs and budget.
When choosing a micro-agency, check their reviews and past client testimonials. Look for case studies or examples of websites they’ve built to get a sense of their style and approach.
Things to look for when hiring a web designer
No matter which route you go—DIY, freelancer, agency, or micro-agency—there are key things to look for when hiring a web designer:
- Portfolio: Always check out their previous work to ensure their style aligns with your vision.
- Experience: Make sure they have experience in your industry or with the type of website you need.
- Communication: You want a designer who is easy to communicate with and listens to your needs.
- Testimonials: Read reviews and case studies from past clients to ensure they have a good track record.
The cost of hiring a web designer depends on your needs, budget, and the route you choose—DIY, freelancer, or agency. Each option has its own pros and cons, but by understanding the scope of your project and the expertise required, you can make an informed decision that fits your business goals.
