How much does a website cost in 2026?

It's the first question almost every client asks me. Before talking about design or features, the budget is at the heart of every conversation.

That's completely normal. Building a website is an investment, and nobody wants to be hit with a surprise bill.

Here's what nobody tells you clearly: prices vary enormously, and understanding why helps you make the right choice.

The three main categories

The essential showcase website

For an SME or tradesperson who simply wants to be online with their information, services and a contact form, a well-built showcase site costs between €800 and €1,500.

This type of site meets 80% of small local business needs. It typically consists of 3 to 5 pages: home, services, about, contact.

What's included:

• Responsive design (mobile, tablet, desktop)
• Contact form
• Basic Google optimisation
• Hosting and maintenance

The advanced showcase website

If your business needs more pages, a blog, a bilingual site or an elaborate visual identity, expect between €1,200 and €2,500.

This format suits businesses that want to truly stand out from local competitors and generate qualified leads via Google.

The e-commerce website

Online shops are a different level of complexity entirely. Product catalogue, shopping cart, secure payment, stock management... expect from €1,500 for a 20-product shop.

What really drives the price

1. Functional complexity

A site with online booking, a client portal or ERP integration costs more than a static showcase site. Every custom feature represents hours of development.

2. Content

If you provide all your texts and photos, the cost drops. If the developer needs to produce everything (SEO copywriting, photography, illustrations), the price rises.

3. Design

A bespoke design, created from scratch for your brand, costs more than an adapted template. But it guarantees a unique, professional visual identity.

4. Maintenance

A website needs upkeep. Hosting, security updates, backups, minor changes... Budget a monthly fee of €30 to €80 depending on complexity.

Pitfalls to avoid

"Website for €99" offers

These offers exist and generally correspond to basic templates on platforms like Wix or Jimdo. You'll be limited in features, design and SEO. Hard to stand out with a site identical to hundreds of others.

Vague quotes

A quote that just says "Website: €2,500" without specifying what's included is a red flag. Always ask for detail: number of pages, features, hosting included or not, maintenance, deadlines.

My transparent approach

At Zenith, I offer fixed, detailed pricing before any commitment:

• Showcase site: from €800 (3 interest-free instalments)
• Advanced showcase: from €1,200
• E-shop: from €1,500

The first call is free. We talk about your project, I analyse your needs, and you leave with a clear, costed proposal — no commitment required.