When it comes to redesigning a website, the cost is often one of the first concerns clients bring up. As a UX designer and business analyst, I’ve seen this firsthand. While it’s tough to pinpoint an exact price because so many factors come into play, it’s completely understandable why clients want at least an estimated range.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the key factors that influence the cost of a website redesign and provide steps to help you get a ballpark estimate.
Four Major Cost Tiers
Let’s start with the typical cost ranges for a website redesign:
- $100 – $1,000
- $1,000 – $5,000
- $5,000 – $15,000
- $15,000 – $50,000
Surprisingly, lower costs don’t always mean poor quality. Depending on the combination of factors that apply to your project, you may be able to get a great-looking website without breaking the bank.
Now, let’s dive into the four main factors that will determine where your project falls within these tiers.
Assess Your Website’s Size
The size of your website is a significant cost driver. Larger websites take more time to redesign, which increases the cost.
Here’s how to estimate your website’s size:
- Use Google to check the total number of pages by typing:
site:yoursitename.com.
Based on the number of pages:
- 1–50 pages: Small website (likely in tier 1 or 2).
- 50–200 pages: Medium website (typically in tiers 2 or 3).
- 200+ pages: Large website (usually in tiers 3 or 4).
Consider Integrations
Integrations—such as CMS platforms, payment gateways, or live chat tools—can significantly impact the cost of your redesign.
Even existing integrations may need to be reworked to match the new design. In some cases, older tools might not be compatible with the redesign, requiring upgrades or replacements.
Because every website’s integrations are unique, it’s hard to provide an exact cost estimate. However, the more integrations your site requires, the more time and effort will go into testing and fixing potential issues.
Choose the Design Class of Your Future Website
The design of your website should align with your long-term business goals. Picking the right design class ensures your website stays relevant and doesn’t require frequent redesigns.
Basic
A simple, attractive design that works well for startups and small businesses. These websites are functional and create a positive impression without any flashy features. Costs generally fall within tier 1.
Competitive
Designed for mid-sized and large businesses, this class offers polished branding and engaging user experiences, often including animations or interactive elements. Costs usually range between tiers 2 and 3.
Cutting-edge
This is the premium option, ideal for enterprises looking for a high-end, visually striking website. Costs for smaller websites in this class fall in the higher end of tier 2, while larger sites typically land in tiers 3 or 4.
Decide Who Will Handle Your Website Redesign
Who you hire for the project also plays a crucial role in determining the cost. Here are your main options:
Do It Yourself (DIY)
The cheapest route is using free online tools to redesign your site yourself. However, this approach carries significant risks, especially if your website generates revenue.
Hire a Freelancer
Freelancers can be an affordable option, usually falling into tiers 1 and 2. However, working with a freelancer can lead to challenges such as delayed timelines or unexpected costs. Additionally, they might struggle with complex integrations.
Hire a Web Design Agency
Although this is the most expensive option, it’s also the safest. A professional agency will manage your redesign from start to finish, ensuring the project is completed on time and within budget. For a medium-sized, competitive website with standard integrations, agency costs typically fall into tiers 2 or 3.
Get a Personalized Cost Estimate
After considering the size of your website, the required integrations, the design class, and who will handle the project, you should have a rough idea of your redesign budget.
For a more precise estimate tailored to your needs, it’s best to consult with an expert. If you’re ready to take the next step, feel free to reach out to my team and me for a detailed consultation.
