How Much Does a Small Business Website Cost in 2026?
A Practical Guide for Small Business Owners in Canada & the USA
Building a website in 2026 isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s the foundation of your digital presence. Whether you’re a startup in Toronto, a contractor in Calgary, a boutique owner in New York, or a service provider in Los Angeles, your website is often the first impression customers get. And naturally, one of the biggest questions small business owners ask is: How much does a small business website cost in 2026?
Recent industry data shows that most small businesses can expect to invest between $2,500 and $10,000 upfront, with ongoing costs ranging from $50 to $300 per month depending on hosting, maintenance, and marketing tools.
Average Website Costs for Small Businesses in 2026
Most small business websites fall into these ranges:
DIY Website Builders (Wix, Squarespace)
Typical Cost (CAD/USD): $0–$1,000
Best for: Startups, hobby businesses
Basic Small Business Website (5–10 pages)
Typical Cost (CAD/USD): $2,500–$10,000
Best for: Service providers, local businesses, trades
Custom Website (advanced features, branding, SEO)
Typical Cost (CAD/USD): $10,000–$50,000+
Best for: Growing companies, e‑commerce, franchises
What Actually Determines Website Cost?
Website pricing varies widely because every business has different needs. Key factors include:
1. Design & Branding
Custom design vs. template
Professional branding, photography, or video
UX/UI tailored to your audience
2. Functionality
Online booking systems
E‑commerce stores
Membership portals
CRM integrations
3. Content Requirements
Copywriting
Blog setup
Product descriptions
SEO optimization
4. Developer or Agency Expertise
Canadian and U.S. web design agencies vary significantly in pricing depending on experience, location, and specialization
Website Costs in Canada vs. the USA
While pricing is similar across both countries, here are some regional insights:
Canada
Web design agencies in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary often charge $3,000–$15,000 for small business websites.
Costs vary widely due to differences in agency size and project complexity.
United States
U.S. small business websites typically fall within the $2,500–$10,000 range.
Larger agencies or specialized developers may charge significantly more for custom builds.
Ongoing Monthly Costs in 2026
Even after launch, websites require upkeep. Expect:
Hosting: $10–$50/month
Maintenance & Security: $50–$200/month
SEO & Marketing Tools: $20–$150/month
E‑commerce Fees: Platform‑dependent
These recurring costs ensure your website stays secure, fast, and competitive.
A More Affordable Path for Small Businesses
At Write With Me, the vision is simple: make high‑quality website design accessible to every small business, whether you’re just starting out or scaling your online presence. That means offering professional, mobile‑friendly, SEO‑optimized websites at a fraction of the traditional cost—without cutting corners on quality, strategy, or support.