When you’re running a charity, every penny counts. But when it comes to your website, it’s an investment that can make all the difference. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to revamp your online presence, one of the first questions you’ll have is: how much does a charity website cost? How long is a piece of string?
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but don’t worry—I’m here to break it down for you so you know what to expect and where to prioritise your budget.
What Affects the Cost of a Charity Website?
There are a few key factors that will influence the price of your website build:
1. Size of the Website
Are you looking for a simple 3-page site with basic information about your charity, or do you need a more complex website with multiple sections like blogs, events pages, a shop, or donation forms? The more pages and functionality your site has, the higher the cost is likely to be.
2. Platform Choice
The platform you choose for your charity website will also impact the cost. Websites built on platforms like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace tend to be more affordable upfront, with user-friendly templates and hosting included. However, custom-built websites, while more expensive, offer greater flexibility and are tailored to your charity’s exact needs.
3. Design & Customisation
A beautifully designed website helps your charity stand out and encourages trust from donors. Depending on your budget, you can choose between pre-made templates (which are generally cheaper) or fully custom designs. A custom design will be more expensive but will help you craft a unique online identity that reflects your mission and can be easier to use in the long term.
4. Ongoing Costs
It’s easy to forget that there are ongoing costs to keep your website running smoothly. These include things like domain renewal, hosting fees, security, and regular updates. You might also want to budget for occasional tweaks or new features as your charity grows and changes.
Typical Price Ranges
To give you a rough idea of what to expect, here are some typical price ranges:
DIY Platforms (Wix, Squarespace, etc.):
These platforms typically cost between £10 and £50 per month for hosting and basic features. Keep in mind that while you save on costs, building a website yourself requires a significant investment of time and effort.
Basic 3-Page Website:
This is the essential starting point for your online presence. I personally charge charities £800 for a basic three-page site, with the flexibility to expand as your charity grows.
Small Custom Website:
For a well-designed, custom website, expect to pay between £1,500 and £5,000+, depending on its complexity and size. Don’t forget to include budget for hosting and ongoing maintenance.
Large Custom Sites:
If you need a completely bespoke website built from scratch, prices start at around £5,000 and can go much higher. In the past, I’ve spent £35,000 for a charity website site.
Getting the Best Value for Your Charity
While the cost of a charity website can feel like a big commitment, it’s worth remembering that your website is often the first place potential donors, volunteers, and supporters will interact with your cause. A well-designed, easy-to-navigate site can help build trust and make it easy for people to get involved.
If you’re working with a tight budget, here are a few tips to get the most bang for your buck:
Build it yourself:
DIY with platforms like Wix or Squarespace: If you're looking to save money, these user-friendly platforms let you design your own website at a lower cost. You can download my free website checklist to help you get going.
Use a pay-as-you-grow option:
Some web designers (like me!) offer packages where you can pay for a few pages upfront, with the option to add more over time as your charity develops.
Look for pro-bono work:
Don’t forget to explore opportunities for free design help—many designers and agencies offer pro-bono services to charities.
Before You Spend Your Hard-Earned Money
Before making any financial commitments for your website, take the time to chat with at least three different web designers. I’m talking about having a real conversation—not just filling out an online form or sending an email. You'll be collaborating closely with whoever you choose, so it's crucial to find someone who truly understands your charity and your goals. I also recommend looking for a designer who specialises in the charity sector. I've seen too many charities end up with poorly designed websites because their developer simply didn’t grasp the mission or care about the outcome.
Ready to Build Your Charity Website?
Whether you’re just getting started or you’re ready for a full redesign, investing in your charity’s website is a step toward growing your impact. If you need help working out what’s right for your charity—or you’re ready to get the ball rolling—feel free to reach out. I’m always here for a no-pressure chat to see how I can help bring your website vision to life!
At the end of the day, the cost of a charity website can vary widely depending on what you need—but with the right strategy, you can make it work for your budget and your cause.