How Much Does a WordPress Website Cost? (2025 Guide)
WordPress is a powerful, open-source content management system (CMS) that powers over 43% of all websites on the internet. From personal blogs to enterprise-level websites, WordPress is known for its flexibility, scalability, and ease of use. But a common question businesses and individuals ask is: how much does a WordPress website cost? In this full guide, we’ll break down the costs associated with building and maintaining a WordPress site, pricing by business type, agency fees, hosting, maintenance, and more.
What is WordPress?
WordPress is an open-source CMS that enables users to build and manage websites without needing to know how to code. It comes in two main versions: WordPress.org and WordPress.com. WordPress.org offers complete control and flexibility, requiring you to handle your own hosting. WordPress.com, on the other hand, is a hosted platform with limited customization options unless you’re on a higher-tier plan.
Will WordPress Design and Develop Your Website?
WordPress itself does not offer design or development services. Instead, it provides the tools and infrastructure that allow designers and developers to build customized websites. You can hire freelancers, agencies like FoloTek, or use pre-built themes to get your site up and running.
Key WordPress Website Cost Components
The cost of a WordPress website depends on several components:
- Domain name registration ($10–$20/year)
- Web hosting ($5–$100+/month)
- Themes (Free to $250 one-time or recurring)
- Plugins (Free to $200+/year depending on need)
- Developer/design fees (Varies widely: $500 to $20,000+)
- Maintenance & updates (monthly retainers or per-hour)
Explore our full Website Development Cost Guide for more.
WordPress Cost Factors
Key factors influencing WordPress website pricing include:
- Type of website (blog, business, eCommerce, portfolio)
- Level of customization
- Number of pages
- Functionality required (e.g., forms, payment gateways)
- SEO, speed, and security optimizations
Custom WordPress website cost increases with each of these variables.
Your Cheat Sheet to WordPress Website Pricing by Business Type
| Business Type | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Personal Blog | $100 – $500 |
| Small Business Website | $800 – $5,000 |
| Corporate Website | $3,000 – $15,000+ |
| eCommerce Website | $2,000 – $25,000+ |
| Enterprise Solution | $10,000 – $100,000+ |
Also see: eCommerce Website Cost Guide
WordPress Website Design Pricing
Design pricing depends on whether you choose a pre-made theme, a customized theme, or a full bespoke design. On average:
- Theme customization: $500 – $2,500
- Custom design: $3,000 – $15,000
- Redesign costs: $1,000 – $10,000 depending on scope
Learn more about Website Design Costs.
WordPress.org vs. WordPress.com Comparison
| Feature | WordPress.org | WordPress.com |
| Cost | Free CMS (self-hosted) | Free to $59/month |
| Hosting | Required separately | Included |
| Customization | Full | Limited on lower plans |
| Monetization Options | Unlimited | Restricted on free plan |
| Ideal For | Businesses, developers | Beginners, personal blogs |
WordPress Agency Pricing (US vs Overseas Outsourced)
| Region | Average Pricing (USD) |
| USA Agencies | $100 – $250/hour or $5k – $25k+ |
| Overseas | $25 – $100/hour or $500 – $10k |
Outsourcing reduces costs but may affect communication and turnaround times. Agencies like FoloTek balance affordability with quality.
What Are Some Alternatives to a WordPress Website?
If you’re considering platforms beyond WordPress:
- Wix – Drag-and-drop builder, less flexible
- Squarespace – Good for creatives
- Shopify – Best for eCommerce (Check our Shopify Website Cost Guide)
- Webflow – Great for designers, higher learning curve
Factors Influencing Cost
- Hosting provider and plan
- Design complexity
- Plugin licensing
- Security & backups
- SEO & performance tuning
Each factor adds to the wordpress website development cost. Budget smartly.
Cost Breakdown
| Component | Cost Range |
| Domain Registration | $10 – $20/year |
| Hosting | $5 – $100+/month |
| Theme | Free – $250 |
| Plugins | Free – $200+/year |
| Design & Development | $500 – $25,000+ |
| Maintenance | $50 – $500/month |
Check out our detailed Website Maintenance Cost breakdown.
Examples
- Startup Website: One-page WordPress site with theme customization – approx. $800
- Professional Services Site: 5–10 pages, SEO optimization – $3,000–$6,000
- eCommerce Site: WooCommerce setup with payment gateway – $5,000–$20,000+
FAQs
Does WordPress cost money?
WordPress.org is free. However, you’ll need to pay for hosting, a domain, and optional themes or plugins.
What WordPress costs do I need to budget for?
Hosting, domain, themes, plugins, and developer fees.
How much does WordPress cost per year?
On average, $200 – $1,000+, depending on site complexity.
How much does WordPress cost per month?
Between $10 – $100+ for hosting, plugins, and maintenance.
How much does it cost to build a WordPress website?
Anywhere from $500 for a basic site to $25,000+ for complex solutions.
How much does WordPress website design cost?
Theme-based designs cost $500–$2,500; custom designs can exceed $10,000.
How much does WordPress website maintenance cost?
Typically $50–$500/month, based on updates, backups, and support.
Is the cost of WordPress worth the money?
Absolutely—when you consider flexibility, control, and long-term ROI.
How much does it cost to host a WordPress website?
Basic shared hosting starts at $5/month; premium options go up to $100/month or more.