What affects the cost?
Design complexity, the amount of content, custom functionality, database requirements, integrations and ongoing support can all affect the amount of work involved.
Simple business websites
A straightforward site may focus on a small number of pages such as Home, About, Services and Contact. The main requirements are usually responsive design, clear navigation, useful content and a reliable enquiry route.
E-commerce websites
An online shop introduces products, categories, product information, basket and checkout journeys, payment services and additional testing.
Custom websites and applications
Member systems, dashboards, directories, search, databases, automation and APIs can require substantially more development than a brochure-style site.
Don't price by pages alone
Ten simple pages may require less development than three pages connected to a complex database. A sensible project discussion therefore starts with what the website needs to do.
Ask for a clear scope
Before work begins, establish what is included, what is optional, what content is supplied and what happens after launch. This makes the project easier to understand and compare.