The honest answer: it depends. But “it depends” is not helpful when you are trying to budget, so here is a realistic breakdown of what websites actually cost in 2026.
The Three Options
DIY Platforms (GBP 0 to GBP 500)
Squarespace, Wix, or WordPress.com. You pick a template, add your content, and publish. Cost is essentially zero beyond the monthly subscription (GBP 10 to GBP 40/month).
Good for: Personal sites, side projects, testing an idea before committing.
Not good for: Businesses that need to look credible, rank in search, or convert visitors at scale.
Freelance Designer (GBP 1,500 to GBP 5,000)
A freelancer will design a custom site, usually on WordPress. Timelines vary wildly, from 2 weeks to 3 months depending on the freelancer and scope.
Good for: Simple sites with limited scope. If you know exactly what you want and can manage the project yourself.
Not good for: Anything requiring brand strategy, multiple revisions, or ongoing support. You are managing the project, which takes more time than most people expect.
Design Agency (GBP 3,500 to GBP 50,000+)
An agency brings a team: designer, developer, strategist, project manager. You get a complete solution rather than a single deliverable.
Traditional agencies charge GBP 15,000 to GBP 50,000 for a brand and website. At Maad House, we deliver both in 30 days for GBP 3,500 because we have streamlined the process, not because we cut corners.
Good for: Businesses that need brand and website to work as a system. Companies that value reliability and long-term partnership.
What Drives the Cost Up
- E-commerce functionality adds GBP 1,000 to GBP 10,000 depending on the platform and catalogue size
- Custom integrations (CRM, booking systems, payment gateways) add complexity and cost
- Content creation (photography, copywriting, video) is usually extra unless bundled
- Ongoing maintenance ranges from GBP 50 to GBP 500/month depending on complexity
Our Recommendation
If your business makes money from its website (which most do, directly or indirectly), invest in custom design. The difference between a template site and a custom site is the difference between a business that looks like everyone else and one that stands out.
Our All-In package delivers a complete brand identity and custom website in 30 days for GBP 3,500. Get in touch to discuss your project.
