How Much Does a Website Cost in Toronto?

If you're a small business owner in Toronto or the GTA, chances are you're asking yourself, "How much should I actually pay for a website?" The answer unfortunately is often "it depends." But that's not helpful. Let's break down the real costs you can expect in 2025.

The Three Tiers of Web Design Pricing

Generally, projects for websites can be classified into three major categories:

1. The DIY Route ($0 - $30/month)

You can build a site yourself through platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or Shopify. With this option, you have low upfront costs but invest a lot of time. You also are limited by templates, and unless you have design experience, it may not look professional or convert visitors into customers.

2. The Freelancer ($500 - $3,000)

Hiring a freelancer is a great middle ground. You get a custom look sans the agency price tag. But quality varies wildly, from the student who charges $500 and disappears during exam season to the seasoned pro charging $3,000 who doesn't handle SEO or hosting.

3. The Agency ($3,000 - $15,000+)

Agencies offer a complete team of designers, developers, SEO specialists, and project managers. This approach can assure the highest quality and robust product. For a small business, a simple brochure site might start at around $3,000, while a more complex e-commerce platform easily can exceed $10,000.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

The initial build isn't the only cost. Don't forget about:

Domain Name: $15 - $50 per year.
Hosting: $10 - $50 per month (crucial for speed and security).
Maintenance: Plugins need updating, backups need to be taken. This can cost $50 - $200/month if you outsource it.
Content Creation: Professional copywriting and photography can add $500+ to your project.

What Arcta Offers

At Arcta, we understand the Toronto market. We aim to bridge the gap between freelancer affordability and agency quality. We offer transparent pricing and packages that include hosting and maintenance, so you're never hit with surprise bills.