I’ve been asked this question more times than I can count: “So, how much will a website cost me this year?”
And honestly? The answer is: it depends.
I know that’s not the clean, satisfying number you might be hoping for. But the truth is, websites aren’t bought like t-shirts — there isn’t one price tag that fits everyone. What I can do, though, is walk you through the ballpark ranges I’ve seen in 2025 and the factors that tend to push prices up (or bring them down).
Let’s Talk Numbers — Real Numbers
Over the years, I’ve seen websites in Canada and the USA range anywhere from just a couple thousand dollars to projects that stretch into six figures. But for most businesses — small to medium-sized — the price tends to fall into three common buckets.
Basic Business Websites
If you’re a small business, consultant, or startup, you can expect to spend somewhere in the $2,000–$5,000 USD range (roughly $2,700–$6,700 CAD).
These sites usually live on WordPress or a similar CMS. They have:
- A clean, brand-aligned design
- 5–10 core pages (Home, About, Services, Contact, Blog)
- Mobile responsiveness (because Google and your customers demand it)
- Basic SEO so you can be found online
They’re straightforward, professional, and perfect for building credibility.
eCommerce Stores
If you want to sell online, your budget will look different.
For most Shopify or WooCommerce builds, I’ve seen businesses spend anywhere between $5,000 and $15,000 USD (about $6,700–$20,000 CAD).
These sites typically include:
- A customized store layout
- Product setup (from a few dozen to hundreds)
- Secure payment processing
- Shipping/tax configuration
- SEO-friendly product pages
This is the category where design and user experience directly impact revenue — small tweaks can mean a lot of extra sales.
Custom Websites & Web Applications
For large companies or unique business models, things get more advanced.
Custom-built websites or web applications can easily start at $10,000 USD and go up to $50,000+ USD. These are often built in Laravel or fully custom frameworks and might include:
- Membership portals
- Dashboards or booking systems
- Complex API integrations
- Enterprise-level security
- Multi-language support
If your website is your primary business tool, this is usually where you’ll land.
So, What Affects the Price?
Here’s the short version: the more you want your website to do, the more it will cost.
But there are a few big things that always play a role:
- Platform choice (WordPress, Shopify, custom frameworks)
- Design complexity (simple clean layouts vs. interactive animations)
- Number of pages (five is very different from fifty)
- Functionality (eCommerce, memberships, booking systems, integrations)
- SEO & marketing setup (basic SEO vs. advanced, content-heavy optimization)
- Maintenance (keeping your site secure and up to date)
USA vs Canada — Is There a Big Gap?
Honestly? Not really.
A mid-range website built in Toronto will usually cost about the same as one built in Chicago. Where you see price differences is at the agency level — a big NYC agency will charge more than a small shop in Edmonton.
Here’s a Cost-Saving Secret
One thing more businesses are waking up to: working with a credible offshore team can cut website costs by 30–50% without sacrificing quality.
At Intelnest, for example, we work with companies in the USA and Canada who want agency-level work at more competitive rates. We match their project management needs, align with their time zone, and deliver at a standard that holds up anywhere in the world.
If you’re smart about who you choose, this approach can save you a big chunk of your budget.
So, What’s the Smart Way to Approach This?
- Pick the platform that fits your needs (don’t buy a Ferrari if a Tesla will do the job)
- Focus on features that genuinely drive revenue or leads
- Think long term — will your site grow with you?
- Work with a team that understands your market, not just how to code
Quick FAQs on Website Costs
What’s the average price of a small business website?
Usually $2,000–$5,000 USD.
How much for an eCommerce site?
Typically $5,000–$15,000 USD depending on catalog size and complexity.
Is offshore development really cheaper?
Yes — the right team can deliver the same quality for less.
Which platform is most budget-friendly?
WordPress for content-focused sites, Shopify for eCommerce.
How long does it take?
Anywhere from 2–8 weeks, depending on complexity.
Final Word
In 2025, the cost of building a website in the USA and Canada can swing widely, but the right development partner can help you invest wisely.
If you want a site that works hard for your business without blowing your budget, a trusted offshore model like Intelnest might be the way to go.
