Affordable Website Design Packages for Startups & SMBs

Introduction

Your website is the digital front door to your business — it’s often the first impression people have of your brand. A well-designed website not only looks professional but also builds trust and helps convert visitors into customers.

But one question always comes up: how much does professional web design really cost?

The answer depends on several factors, from design complexity to added features. With so many pricing models and package types out there, it can feel confusing to figure out what’s right for your business.

This guide breaks down web design packages and pricing examples, helping you understand what affects the cost and how to choose the right option for your goals and budget. Whether you’re launching your first website or upgrading an existing one, this information will help you make informed decisions and get the best value for your money.

Understanding Web Design Packages

Think of web design packages like a meal combo — a set of services bundled together for a fixed price. They make it easier (and often cheaper) to get a complete website without having to hire different experts for each task.

A typical web design package may include:

• Design and development (layout, color scheme, and functionality)
• Content Management System (CMS) setup
• Domain and hosting assistance
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) basics
• Ongoing support and updates

These packages help streamline the process, giving you a clear picture of what you’re getting and what it will cost upfront.

Why Choose a Web Design Package?

There are a few key reasons businesses prefer bundled web design services:

1. Transparent pricing – You know exactly what you’ll spend, reducing the risk of hidden fees.
2. Smoother workflow – Clear project scope and deliverables keep things on schedule.
3. Cost efficiency – Buying bundled services typically costs less than hiring for each task separately.

Web design packages offer structure, predictability, and convenience — making them ideal for startups, entrepreneurs, and established brands alike.

Types of Web Design Packages

Every business has different goals, and so do its websites. That’s why web design packages are usually offered in multiple tiers — each tailored to a specific level of need, complexity, and budget.

At StartDesigns, we believe in flexible packages that grow with your business. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types you’ll come across:

1. Basic Web Design Package

Ideal for individuals, startups, or small businesses that need a simple online presence.

What’s Included:

• Pre-designed templates with slight customizations
• 4–6 essential pages (Home, About, Services, Contact, etc.)
• Basic mobile responsiveness
• Simple contact forms and image galleries
• Integration with social media profiles

Best For:
Freelancers, small local shops, or new entrepreneurs who want a clean, professional website without advanced functionality.

2. Standard Web Design Package

Designed for growing businesses that want more than just the basics.

What’s Included:

• Custom homepage design
• Up to 10 pages
• Blog setup and integration
• Advanced SEO optimization
• Social media feeds or newsletter signup
• Multiple revision rounds for design adjustments

Best For:
Small-to-medium businesses that want a stronger brand presence, content marketing tools, and moderate customization.

3. Premium Web Design Package

A high-end option that covers everything needed for an advanced website with custom functionality.

What’s Included:

• Fully custom design built from scratch
• 15–25 pages or more
• E-commerce or booking integration
• Animated or interactive design elements
• Professional content support (copywriting, images, videos)
• Ongoing technical support and updates

Best For:
Established brands, enterprises, or service providers looking for a premium digital experience that aligns with their brand identity.

4. E-commerce Web Design Package

Tailored for businesses that want to sell products or services online.

What’s Included:

• Product catalog setup and management
• Shopping cart and secure payment integration
• Customer account and order tracking
• Inventory management system
• Product reviews and analytics
• SEO setup for product visibility

Best For:
Online retailers, service providers, or anyone looking to run a scalable e-commerce business.

Factors That Influence Web Design Pricing

The cost of web design can vary widely — and understanding what drives those differences can help you plan your budget smartly.

Here are the main factors that affect pricing:

1. Website Complexity

A one-page portfolio costs much less than a multi-layered e-commerce store. The more pages, products, or features your website has, the higher the design and development costs.

2. Customization Level

Pre-made templates are affordable, while fully custom designs (built from scratch) require more creative and technical input, increasing the price.

3. Content Creation

Do you already have your text, photos, and videos ready? If not, professional copywriting, photography, and visual content creation will add to the overall cost — but also greatly improve your site’s quality.

4. Responsive Design

Every modern site must perform well on desktops, tablets, and smartphones. While most packages include this by default, the level of optimization can affect pricing.

5. E-commerce Features

Adding payment gateways, product filters, and checkout processes increases the complexity (and price) of a project.

6. SEO & Marketing Tools

If your website needs advanced SEO, analytics, or integration with email and social platforms, these extras can add to your total investment.

7. Maintenance and Support

Ongoing maintenance plans — like software updates, backups, and security monitoring — also influence the total cost of ownership over time.

Pro Tip from StartDesigns:
When choosing a package, focus on value, not just cost. A slightly higher investment in design quality, SEO, and support can lead to better user experience, stronger branding, and higher conversions in the long run.

Web Design Package Pricing Breakdown

At StartDesigns, we understand that every business has different needs — and budgets. That’s why web design pricing varies depending on the features, customization level, and long-term goals of your website.

Below, we’ll explore general pricing ranges and what you can typically expect at each level.

1. Basic Web Design Packages

Estimated Price Range: $500 – $2,000

A basic web design package is perfect for individuals or startups taking their first step online. It focuses on essentials — simplicity, clarity, and professionalism — without the complexity of advanced functionality.

What’s Typically Included:

• Up to 5 core pages (Home, About, Services, Gallery, Contact)
• Mobile-responsive layout
• Ready-to-use design template with brand colors
• Basic SEO setup (meta tags, page titles, and descriptions)
• Social media integration
• Contact form and basic photo gallery

Example Scenario:
A local bakery needs an online presence to showcase products and allow customers to reach out easily. A $1,000 basic package would cover all the necessary pages, basic SEO, and contact functionality.

Best For:
Freelancers, consultants, and small local businesses are looking for a clean, functional site that represents their brand online.

2. Standard Web Design Packages

Estimated Price Range: $2,000 – $5,000

The standard package adds more flexibility and features. It’s ideal for small-to-medium-sized businesses that want a strong, engaging digital presence that attracts and retains customers.

What’s Typically Included:

• Custom landing design
• Up to 10 pages
• Blog setup for content marketing
• Enhanced on-page SEO and keyword optimization
• Social feed or newsletter integration
• 2–3 rounds of design revisions
• Performance optimization for faster loading

Example Scenario:
A digital agency or fashion brand wants a stylish website with a blog and social integration. A $3,500 package could deliver a 10-page site with a blog, social links, and a custom homepage built for conversions.

Best For:
Growing businesses and creative professionals are ready to enhance their digital credibility with a branded, interactive website.

3. Premium Web Design Packages

Estimated Price Range: $5,000 – $10,000+

Premium packages are built for established brands that want a tailor-made website with advanced functionality and complete creative control.

What’s Typically Included:

• Fully custom web design and layout
• 15–25+ pages with unique templates
• Advanced animations and user interactions
• E-commerce integration or booking systems
• Professional content writing and visuals
• Complete SEO setup and analytics
• Ongoing maintenance and technical support

Example Scenario:
A luxury travel company wants a highly visual, interactive website that feels exclusive. For around $8,000, they’d receive a custom-designed, mobile-optimized site with advanced SEO, animations, and full support.

Best For:
Enterprises, large organizations, or high-end brands that want a website reflecting sophistication, performance, and creativity.

4. E-commerce Web Design Packages

Estimated Price Range: $3,000 – $10,000+

An e-commerce website isn’t just about looks — it’s about functionality, speed, and seamless shopping experiences. These packages are designed for businesses that want to sell online efficiently and securely.

What’s Typically Included:

• Product catalog with unlimited listings
• Shopping cart and secure checkout system
• Payment gateway setup (PayPal, Stripe, etc.)
• Inventory and order management
• Product reviews and wish list options
• SEO optimization for product pages
• 2–3 rounds of design and functionality revisions

Example Scenario:
An online clothing store wants to manage hundreds of products, enable secure checkout, and send order notifications. A $6,000 e-commerce package would include all necessary tools, from inventory management to marketing integrations.

Best For:
Retailers, service-based sellers, and brands that rely on online transactions and product promotions.

How Start Design Fixes Can Boost Your E-commerce Sales by 35%

Most online stores lose customers because of subtle design mistakes. In this post, discover how optimizing your Shopify, WooCommerce, or Magento layout can dramatically improve user experience and boost conversions. Watch the full video below to see real-world examples and actionable tips.

Extra Web Design Services and Their Costs

A professional website is just the beginning — keeping it optimized, secure, and visible requires a few additional services. At StartDesigns, we offer several add-ons to enhance your site’s performance and help you get the most from your investment.

Below are some of the most popular extra web design services and what they typically cost.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Estimated Cost: $300 – $3,000+ per month

A beautiful website won’t help much if people can’t find it. That’s where SEO comes in — helping your site rank higher in search engines and attract the right audience.

What’s Included:

• Keyword research and strategy
• On-page SEO (meta tags, headers, content optimization)
• Technical SEO audit and fixes
• Local SEO setup (Google Maps, Business Profile)
• Backlink and content optimization

SEO pricing depends on your industry’s competitiveness and how aggressive your goals are. Investing in strong SEO early on can deliver long-term organic traffic and lead generation.

Content Creation & Copywriting

Estimated Cost: $100 – $1,500 per project

High-quality content turns casual visitors into customers. Professionally written text helps communicate your message clearly and supports SEO goals.

What’s Included:

• Website copy for pages (Home, About, Services, etc.)
• Blog articles and product descriptions
• Brand storytelling and marketing messages
• Keyword-rich SEO content

The cost depends on the amount of content and the level of research involved. At StartDesigns, our writers ensure your voice stays authentic while maintaining readability and conversion focus.

Website Maintenance & Support

Estimated Cost: $50 – $300 per month

Your website is like a living system — it needs regular care to stay fast, secure, and up-to-date. Maintenance plans save you from technical headaches and potential downtime.

What’s Included:

• Regular software and plugin updates
• Backup and restoration setup
• Security monitoring and malware protection
• Website uptime tracking
• Minor text or image edits on request

Businesses that rely heavily on their website for sales or lead generation should never skip maintenance — it ensures reliability and data protection.

Website Redesign Services

Estimated Cost: $1,500 – $10,000+

If your current website feels outdated or isn’t generating results, a redesign can breathe new life into your online presence.

What’s Included:

• Updated design layout and navigation
• Improved user experience (UX)
• New visuals and mobile responsiveness
• SEO structure optimization
• Content updates or brand refresh

Redesign pricing depends on how extensive the updates are — small aesthetic changes cost less than a full structural revamp.

Custom Development or Add-On Features

Estimated Cost: Varies based on complexity

Sometimes, your business requires something unique — a booking system, membership portal, or advanced filtering tool. Custom web development helps you add these features seamlessly.

Possible Add-Ons:

• Subscription models or member logins
• Product filtering and search systems
• Chatbots or AI-driven features
• Multi-vendor marketplace setup
• API integrations with external tools

These features can greatly improve user experience but require additional coding, which affects pricing based on complexity and scale.

Website Maintenance Plans and Pricing

Building a website is only the first step — keeping it secure, updated, and high-performing is where the real value lies. Regular maintenance ensures your site runs smoothly, stays protected from threats, and continues to deliver a seamless experience for users.

At StartDesigns, we offer flexible maintenance plans designed to match different business needs — whether you run a small business website or a full-scale eCommerce platform.

Why Website Maintenance Matters

Think of your website like a car — it needs periodic checkups to stay in top condition. Without regular care, your site can face problems like broken links, slow loading, or even security breaches.

Website maintenance ensures that:

• Your content management system (CMS) and plugins stay updated
• Security patches protect your data
• Backups are available in case of emergencies
• Website performance and speed remain consistent
• SEO rankings are maintained through healthy technical performance

Regular maintenance keeps your online presence reliable and helps your audience trust your brand.

What’s Included in a Website Maintenance Plan

Here’s what a typical StartDesigns maintenance package covers:

Software & Plugin Updates
Ensures your CMS and third-party tools stay current with the latest security and performance updates.

Website Backups
We create automated backups weekly or daily (depending on your plan) so you can restore your site anytime.

Security Monitoring
Continuous scans detect and prevent malware or hacking attempts.

Uptime Tracking
We monitor your site’s availability 24/7 to ensure it stays online and accessible.

Content Edits
Quick updates to text, images, or blog posts upon request.

Performance Optimization
Speed checks and database cleanup to maintain fast loading times.

Example Maintenance Plan

Standard Plan — $100/month
Includes:

• Monthly plugin and system updates
• Weekly backups
• Security monitoring and malware removal
• Uptime checks
• Two small content edits per month
• Priority support via email

This plan is perfect for small to medium-sized businesses that want consistent site health without handling technical work themselves.

Who Should Consider a Maintenance Plan

Website maintenance is ideal for:

• Businesses that rely on their website for sales or leads
• Brands that want to prevent downtime or hacking risks
• Companies without an in-house web development team
• Anyone looking for peace of mind, knowing experts are maintaining their website

If your site goes down or gets compromised, it can affect your brand’s reputation and revenue. Having a professional team monitor and maintain it saves you both time and stress.

Pro Tip from StartDesigns

Neglecting maintenance might save a little money today — but it can cost far more later if your site breaks, gets hacked, or loses SEO rankings. Regular maintenance ensures long-term stability, security, and growth for your digital presence.

How Web Designers Charge for Their Work

Once you understand the different types of web design packages and their pricing, it’s important to know how designers actually charge for their work.
Different pricing models suit different project types — and understanding them helps you plan your budget more effectively and communicate clearly with your web design team.

At StartDesigns, we use flexible pricing structures to fit every business size and project scope. Here are the most common ways web designers charge:

1. Hourly Rates

In this model, you pay for the time your designer or developer spends working on your project.
Hourly pricing is ideal for smaller tasks, updates, or short-term collaborations where the project scope isn’t fixed.

Typical Hourly Range: $50 – $200+ per hour

Best For:

• Small design changes or fixes
• One-time updates or feature additions
• Businesses that want ongoing design help as needed

Pros:

• You pay only for the time used
• Great for flexible, short-term needs

Cons:

• Harder to estimate the final cost upfront if the project scope expands

2. Fixed Project Pricing

This is the most common pricing model for full web design packages.
You agree on a total cost before the project starts, based on the scope of work, number of pages, and required features.

How It Works:
The designer provides a detailed quote that lists everything included — design, development, revisions, and delivery timelines. Any additional work beyond the agreed scope may be billed separately.

Best For:

• Complete website builds
• Redesigns or rebranding projects
• Businesses with a clear idea of what they need

Pros:

• Predictable total cost
• Clear deliverables and deadlines

Cons:

• Limited flexibility for major changes once the project begins

3. Retainer or Subscription Model

A retainer plan is like having a web design partner on standby.
You pay a fixed monthly or quarterly fee for ongoing services such as maintenance, updates, and design support.

Typical Cost Range: $200 – $1,500+ per month (based on workload)

Best For:

• Businesses that frequently need design or development help
• Companies that want a reliable, long-term design partner
• Brands that need monthly content or layout updates

Pros:

• Continuous design support
• Predictable monthly expenses
• Faster turnaround times for updates

Cons:

• Requires consistent communication and workload planning

4. Value-Based Pricing

Value-based pricing focuses on results, not hours. Instead of charging for time or tasks, pricing is determined by the value the website delivers to your business.

For instance, if a website is expected to help generate $100,000 in sales, its design investment might be proportionally higher than a simple informational site.

Best For:

• High-impact projects (like e-commerce or lead-generation websites)
• Established businesses focused on ROI
• Custom or strategy-driven web design projects

Pros:

• Aligns cost with business outcomes
• Encourages designers to prioritize performance and conversions

Cons:

• Harder to estimate for new or smaller projects

Choosing the Right Web Design Package for You

Selecting the perfect web design package isn’t just about price — it’s about aligning your business goals, audience needs, and growth potential. The right package gives you the tools, features, and flexibility to build a website that delivers real results.

At StartDesigns, we help clients identify exactly what they need before recommending a solution — so you pay only for what matters most.

Here’s how to choose the best web design package for your brand.

1. Define Your Website Goals

Before you start comparing packages, ask yourself:

• What is the main purpose of my website?
• Do I want to generate leads, sell products, or share information?
• Who is my target audience, and what do they expect?

If your goal is brand visibility, a basic or standard package may be enough.
If you need online sales or advanced functionality, consider a premium or e-commerce package with integrated tools.

When your goals are clear, it’s easier to choose a package that supports them instead of paying for unnecessary extras.

2. Identify Your Required Features

Every website needs a foundation — but depending on your business, you may also need specialized features.

Here’s a quick checklist to guide you:

• Blog or content section
• Contact forms or appointment booking
• E-commerce functionality
• Social media integration
• SEO and analytics tracking
• Membership or login areas

Make a list of your must-have and nice-to-have features. This helps your design team at StartDesigns recommend a package that’s both efficient and cost-effective.

3. Set a Realistic Budget

Your website is an investment — one that can generate returns for years if done right. But it’s important to set a budget that reflects your goals and long-term vision.

Smart budgeting tips:

• Compare quotes from multiple providers before deciding.
• Prioritize essentials (SEO, responsive design, content) first.
• Plan for ongoing expenses like hosting, maintenance, and marketing.
• If the budget is limited, start with a smaller package and scale up later.

Remember: a cheap website that doesn’t perform well can end up costing you more in lost opportunities than investing in a quality design from the start.

4. Evaluate Your Technical Comfort Level

If you’re comfortable managing minor updates, a DIY-friendly CMS-based site may suit you. But if you’d rather focus on your business and let professionals handle the technical side, a managed web design plan is the way to go.

At StartDesigns, we offer both:

• Websites you can easily edit yourself (with tutorials and support), or
• Fully managed packages with our team handling everything behind the scenes.

Choose the one that saves you time and fits your comfort zone.

5. Plan for Growth and Scalability

A great website grows with your business. When choosing your package, think long-term:

• Will you need new pages or products in the future?
• Do you plan to expand into new markets or add new features?

Selecting a scalable package ensures your site can adapt to future updates without requiring a complete rebuild.

Conclusion

Investing in the right web design package is more than just a cost — it’s a strategic move that shapes how customers perceive your brand online. By understanding the types of packages, pricing factors, and additional services, startups and SMBs can make informed decisions that maximize both value and impact.

At StartDesigns, we help businesses of all sizes select flexible, scalable web design solutions tailored to their goals. Whether you’re launching your first website, redesigning an existing site, or building a full-featured e-commerce platform, choosing the right package ensures a professional, responsive, and high-performing website that grows with your business.

Start your journey today and give your brand the digital presence it deserves.