Website Builder Cost Comparison 2026: True Cost Analysis

Last updated: December 27, 2025 • 16 min read

Website builder costs in 2026 range from $19 to $15,000+ depending on your choice. With the global website builder market projected to reach $3.71 billion by 2033, understanding pricing is crucial. This comprehensive guide breaks down the true total cost of ownership for all options.

Quick Cost Summary

OptionYear 1Year 3Best For
HeyBoss AI$228$684Everyone
Wix$408-3,588$1,224-10,764Enterprises
Squarespace$348-708$1,044-2,124Portfolios
Hiring Developers$5,000-15,000+$6,000-20,000+Complex apps

Detailed Cost Breakdown

HeyBoss AI: $19/month ($228/year)

What is included:

  • Unlimited websites
  • All features unlocked
  • Hosting and SSL certificates
  • SEO tools
  • Analytics
  • 24/7 support

Hidden costs: None. No setup fees, no domain fees (if using subdomain), no add-on costs.

3-year TCO: $684 total

Wix: $17-299/month

Pricing tiers:

  • Light: $17/mo (limited features)
  • Core: $29/mo (basic business)
  • Business: $36/mo (e-commerce ready)
  • Business Elite: $159/mo (advanced)
  • Enterprise: $299/mo (large businesses)

Hidden costs:

  • Domain: $15-20/year
  • Premium apps: $5-50/mo each
  • Professional email: $6/mo
  • Advanced SEO: Included in higher tiers only

3-year TCO: $1,224-10,764 (varies by tier and add-ons)

ROI Analysis

For a business generating $100,000 annual revenue, a website that converts 2% better saves you $2,000/year. The website cost becomes insignificant compared to conversion value.

HeyBoss ROI Calculation:

  • Annual cost: $228
  • Time saved vs manual building: 40 hours
  • Value of time (at $50/hr): $2,000
  • Net benefit Year 1: $1,772
  • ROI: 776%