Free vs pay-monthly websites: compare the real cost of getting online.

1. The build fee: what happens before launch?

This is the cost of creating the website. In a DIY model, you may do the work yourself even when there is no build invoice. In a design service, the scope should explain what the provider creates and what you supply.

Ask whether the quoted build includes the number of pages you need, your branding, adding your content and a chance to review the design. A zero build fee is useful information, but it does not describe the entire service.

2. The subscription: what continues each month?

The ongoing subscription may cover access to a platform or a defined website service. Check exactly what it includes, rather than assuming hosting, business email, updates or new features are bundled in.

Our subscription is £24.99 per month, with a £0 upfront build. There is no minimum contract and you can cancel anytime. The detailed domain, hosting and update arrangements are confirmed before you subscribe.

3. The domain and additional services

Keep domain registration and renewal costs visible in the comparison. Also list any separate business email, booking, payment or other tools your particular website needs. A service you do not need should not drive the decision; one you do need should not be left out of the budget.

When comparing prices, check whether introductory discounts expire and how tax is presented. Ask for a written breakdown that makes it easy to see the recurring cost after the first period.

4. Your own time

DIY can be a sensible choice if you enjoy editing and can make time to learn the tools. It can be frustrating if every unfinished page competes with paid client work.

Estimate the tasks rather than inventing a universal number of hours: planning the pages, writing the copy, selecting images, building the layout, checking mobile use and testing enquiries. Decide which tasks you want to own and which you would rather hand over.

An example using our advertised monthly rate

The arithmetic below covers only the advertised website subscription at the current £24.99 monthly rate. It excludes separately agreed costs and any applicable tax treatment. These are comparison periods, not minimum terms or a promise of future pricing.

Cancellation is part of the cost comparison

Ask who keeps the website and the domain, whether a transfer is possible, how the final payment is determined and what hosting will cost afterwards. These questions matter even if you do not expect to leave.

For our service, you keep your website and domain after cancellation, while hosting remains payable. The post-cancellation hosting price, handover process and billing cut-off must be confirmed in writing before you subscribe. Do not assume cancellation means the website can remain online without any hosting cost.

Which route makes sense for your business?

Choose a free DIY route if the available plan suits your needs and you want to handle the work. Consider a pay-monthly design service if an ongoing payment fits your budget and having someone build the website is valuable to you.

If you are unsure, write a short brief with your services, required pages and preferred contact method. Compare the resulting scope and responsibilities, then make the decision from that information.