How Much Does It Really Cost to Create a Small Business Website in the UK?

If you’re a small business owner in the UK, you already know one thing for sure: every penny matters. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, investing in a website can feel overwhelming, especially when prices vary so wildly. As a small business ourselves, we believe in full transparency. No hidden fees, no confusing tech words and no upselling you on things you don’t need. In this post, we break down the real cost of building a small business website in the UK, what affects pricing and how to choose the right option for your business. The Real Cost of a Small Business Website in the UK Website pricing depends on who you work with, the features you need, and the level of ongoing support you want. Here’s a realistic breakdown of the three most common options. 1️⃣ Freelance / Solo Web Designers Typical Price: £500 – £2,500 Freelance web designers are often a popular choice for startu ps and micro businesses looking for an affordable website. Pros: More affordable than agencies Flexible and often quick to respond Direct communication with the designer Cons: May have limited capacity Often specialise in one area (design or SEO or strategy, not all) Less ongoing support once the site goes live Freelancers can be a great option for simpler websites, but availability and long term support can vary. 2️⃣ Small, Personal Web Design Teams (That’s Us!) Typical Price: £249 – £999 (depending on package & features) Small web design teams offer the sweet spot between affordability and professional expertise, especially for UK small businesses. Pros: Built specifically for small business websites Professional web design, SEO optimisation and strategy included Personal service with real people who care about your success Ongoing support and guidance (not just “here’s your site, goodbye”) Cons: Limited capacity compared to large agencies We prioritise quality over quantity, no rushed, cookie cutter websites We work with you, not over you. No account managers, no handovers, no being passed around departments. 3️⃣ Big Agencies / Corporate Website Builders Typical Price: £10,000+ Large agencies are often designed for corporate brands, national companies, or enterprise-level projects. Pros: Large teams with specialist roles High end branding and development resources Cons: Expensive and often unnecessary for small businesses Can feel impersonal Small businesses may feel like “just another number” Long timelines and rigid processes For most UK small businesses, this option is simply overkill. Why Working With a Small Business Web Design Team Makes Sense Choosing the right web designer isn’t just about price, it’s about value, trust and results. Here’s why many small businesses choose to work with us: 🤝 Direct communication, no layers, no middlemen 📈 Strategy led websites designed to grow your business 🔍 SEO friendly design to help you get found on Google 💻 Mobile friendly, fast loading websites 🧠 Honest advice (we won’t sell you what you don’t need) Your website’s success is our success, we care because we understand the struggle of running a small business. Flexible Payment Options for Small Businesses We know cash flow matters, which is why we offer flexible payment plans, including: 50% upfront, 50% on completion Full payment upfront 3 instalments via PayPal No surprises. Your Website Should Work for You, Not Stress You Out Your website isn’t just a box to tick. It should: Attract the right customers Build trust in your brand Clearly explain what you offer Help your business grow A good small business website should feel simple and personal, not confusing or overwhelming. If you’re looking for affordable web design in the UK, built by people who genuinely care about small businesses, we’d love to chat.