If you've started shopping for a website in Toronto, you've probably been confused by the massive range in pricing. One agency quotes $500, another quotes $50,000. What gives?
As someone who builds websites for GTA small businesses, I want to give you an honest breakdown of what you should expect to pay - and what you actually get at each price point.
The $0 - $500 Range: DIY or Templates
What you get: A website builder like Wix, Squarespace, or a basic WordPress theme. You're doing most of the work yourself or paying someone to set up a template.
Pros: Very affordable, quick to set up
Cons: Looks generic, limited customization, often slow, poor SEO, ongoing subscription fees
Best for: Hobby projects, testing an idea, businesses that truly can't afford anything else
The $1,500 - $3,500 Range: Professional Starter Websites
What you get: A custom-designed website built by a professional. Usually 5-10 pages, mobile-responsive, basic SEO setup, contact forms.
Pros: Professional appearance, custom design, proper technical setup, some support included
Cons: Limited features, basic SEO only, you'll need to add more as you grow
Best for: Most small businesses getting started online, service businesses, local shops
This is where Cressoft operates. We believe this is the sweet spot for most GTA small businesses.
The $5,000 - $15,000 Range: Advanced Business Websites
What you get: More complex functionality - e-commerce, booking systems, customer portals, advanced SEO, content management systems.
Pros: Full-featured, custom functionality, comprehensive SEO, extended support
Cons: Higher upfront investment, longer development time
Best for: Established businesses ready to invest, companies with specific technical requirements
The $15,000+ Range: Enterprise and Agency Work
What you get: Large agency treatment with multiple team members, extensive discovery process, enterprise features, ongoing retainers.
Pros: Comprehensive service, large teams, enterprise capabilities
Cons: Often overkill for small businesses, much of the cost is overhead
Best for: Large companies with complex needs and big budgets
Red Flags to Watch For
- No clear pricing: If they won't give you a ballpark, they're either fishing or disorganized.
- Lowball quotes with hidden costs: $500 website that needs $3,000 in “necessary add-ons.”
- Ownership issues: Some agencies retain ownership of your site. Always own your domain and website.
- Long contracts: Be wary of multi-year commitments for basic websites.
My Recommendation
For most GTA small businesses, the $1,500-$3,500 range offers the best value. You get a professional website that represents your business well without overinvesting before you know what works.
As your business grows, you can add more features and functionality. But starting with a solid foundation is much better than a bloated, expensive site you don't need yet.