Practical website planning

How much does a website cost in the UK?

Build a scope-based budget, then compare like-for-like quotes.

Separate build costs from running costs

A domain, hosting and ongoing maintenance are different costs from the initial build.
Copywriting, branding, product data, migration, integrations and photography can be separate work.

Choose a delivery route

DIY reduces purchased development time but needs your own time and maintenance effort.
A freelancer may offer a focused build; check who handles copy, testing and handover.
An agency may include several specialist roles. Confirm what is included rather than judging by team size alone.

Use the calculator carefully

Our calculator uses illustrative planning assumptions, not live market research or a supplier quotation.
It shows a one-off build allowance and separate annual running allowance in GBP, excluding VAT.
Ask suppliers to price the same page count, functionality, content scope, testing, ownership and support period.

Avoid surprises

Agree change-control terms and milestones before paying for a build.
Ask who owns the domain, code, design assets and accounts after handover.
Confirm renewal fees, licence limits, cancellation terms and what happens if your supplier stops trading.

Also useful: website cost calculator · launch checklist · website audit.