The Cost of Design
Dec 19, 2024
Creating a professional website is a critical step for individuals and businesses looking to establish an online presence. However, one of the most common questions people ask is, “How much does web design cost?” The answer depends on several factors, such as the complexity of the project, the type of website, and the experience level of the designer.
In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of web design for every budget, offering insights into what you can expect based on your needs and financial capacity. Prices are given in both Kenyan Shillings (Ksh) and US Dollars (USD) at an exchange rate of $1 = Ksh 130.
1. DIY Websites
Best for: Individuals, startups, and small businesses with limited budgets.
Cost Range:
$0–$150 (Ksh 0–19,500)
This includes domain registration, hosting, and premium templates if needed.
Details:
Using website builders like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress, you can create a website without technical expertise. Costs are limited to platform subscription fees, hosting, and any optional upgrades.Domain: $10–$15/year (Ksh 1,300–1,950)
Hosting: $5–$20/month (Ksh 650–2,600)
Templates: Free to $100 (Ksh 0–13,000)
Pros: Affordable and beginner-friendly.
Cons: Limited design flexibility and scalability.
2. Freelancer Web Designers
Best for: Small businesses or individuals who need a professional touch without spending too much.
Cost Range:
$300–$900 (Ksh 39,000–117,000)
Details:
Freelancers are a cost-effective solution for custom websites. Rates vary depending on their skill level and project complexity.Basic Website: $300–$900 (Ksh 39,000–117,000)
E-commerce Website: $500–$1,000 (Ksh 65,000–130,000)
Pros: Customized designs and direct communication with the designer.
Cons: Turnaround times can vary, and quality depends on the freelancer’s expertise.
3. Small Web Design Agencies
Best for: Medium-sized businesses or professionals who need advanced features and branding.
Cost Range:
$800–$1,200 (Ksh 104,000–156,000)
Details:
Agencies offer a team of experts, including designers, developers, and marketers, to create a tailored website with advanced features.Informational Website: $700–$1,100 (Ksh 91,000–143,000)
E-commerce or Membership Website: $1,200–$5,000 (Ksh 156,000–650,000)
Pros: High-quality designs, better project management, and scalability.
Cons: Higher cost compared to freelancers.
4. Large Agencies and Enterprise Solutions
Best for: Corporations, large businesses, and organizations with complex needs.
Cost Range:
$5,000–$10,000+ (Ksh 650,000–1,300,000+)
Details:
Large agencies provide end-to-end solutions, including website design, branding, SEO, and maintenance. These projects often involve advanced functionality such as custom software integration, high-performance servers, and tailored user experiences.
Pros: Comprehensive services and cutting-edge designs.
Cons: Expensive and requires significant collaboration during the design process.
Additional Costs to Consider
Website Maintenance
$20–$500/month (Ksh 2,600–65,000/month) for updates, backups, and security checks.
Content Creation
Writing, photography, and videos can cost $200–$1,000+ (Ksh 26,000–130,000+), depending on quality.
Custom Features
Adding custom features like a booking system or CRM integration may cost $200–$5,000 (Ksh 26,000–650,000).
Choosing the Right Option for Your Budget
Low Budget (Under $300 / Ksh 39,000): Opt for DIY platforms or an entry-level freelancer.
Medium Budget ($300–$5,000 / Ksh 39,000–650,000): Work with freelancers or small agencies for professional designs.
High Budget ($5,000+ / Ksh 650,000+): Invest in an agency or custom solutions for advanced and scalable websites.
Web design costs vary widely depending on your needs, but investing in a well-designed website is crucial for building your online presence. Whether you’re just starting or looking for advanced solutions, there’s an option for every budget.
Looking for expert web design services? Contact us today to bring your vision to life at a price that suits you!