How much does website hosting cost in 2025 based on hosting types

Web hosting costs can range from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars per month, depending on the type and resources. Shared hosting is the most affordable at $2-10/month, while VPS hosting costs more, between $10-100/month. Cloud hosting ranges from $10-200/month, and dedicated hosting is the priciest option at $80-500/month. Specialized options, such as WordPress hosting, are also available and typically cost $3-$25/month.

A simple web hosting price comparison shows longer plans have lower monthly rates. Remember to account for other potential costs of building a website, like a domain name or marketing tools, which might not be included in your plan.

Here’s a table of the average hosting prices to help you choose the best option for your needs and budget:

Hosting type	Average pricing	Ideal for
Shared hosting	$2-10/month	Beginners, personal blogs, and small websites with low traffic
WordPress hosting	$3-$25/month	WordPress sites, bloggers, and small businesses who need optimized performance
VPS hosting	$10-100/month	Growing websites, developers, and online stores that need more control and resources than shared hosting
Cloud hosting	$10-200/month	Businesses with fluctuating traffic or high-resource demands that need scalable solutions
Dedicated hosting	$80-500/month	Large businesses, high-traffic websites, and complex applications that require maximum performance and security.

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What affects web hosting costs?

The final price of your web hosting plan depends on several key factors. Understanding these elements can help you choose the best plan for your budget.

• Web hosting type. Each hosting type serves a different purpose. For instance, shared hosting is ideal for small websites, while a virtual private server (VPS) is better suited for high-traffic sites and large-scale projects.
• Web hosting provider. The company you choose can affect the price, so it’s important to choose a web hosting provider that offers reliable service and good value.
• Plan period. The length of your subscription directly influences your monthly rate. Longer-term plans tend to have a much lower price than a monthly subscription.
• Features. Plans with more storage, bandwidth, and premium security cost more.

Ultimately, knowing the kind of website you want to build is the first step in choosing a web hosting plan.

Shared web hosting

With shared hosting, you are using the same server as other users. All websites on the server have access to the same allocated pool of resources, such as bandwidth, storage, and processing power.

On average, the cost to host websites using this basic hosting type is around $2-10/month, making it the cheapest web hosting service.

Every hosting provider has its own set of pricing plans. Hostinger offers three basic web hosting plans starting at $2.99/month.

When looking for a basic hosting plan, consider its additional features. For example, Hostinger’s Premium hosting plan, for $2.99/month, includes a website builder, free automatic website migration, unlimited free SSL certificates, and weekly backups. Upgrading to a Business plan for $3.79/month gives you access to extra features like a free content delivery network (CDN) and priority support.

If you don’t know much about launching a website, this type of hosting hosting is a beginner-friendly option to help get you started. It’s suitable for blogs, online portfolios, and small to medium-sized business websites.

Pros

• Affordable plans. The pricing plans are more budget-friendly than other web hosting types.
• Beginner-friendly. An excellent option for users with limited technical knowledge.
• Great support. The web host will manage all the back-end tasks.

Cons

• Shared server. Using the same server with other users may pose performance and security risks.
• Limited resources. Not ideal for websites that require extensive resources.
• Difficult to scale. Doesn’t offer a lot of room for your own website to grow due to its limited resources.

VPS web hosting

Virtual private server (VPS) hosting provides dedicated resources and web hosting space. It uses a virtualization technology like a hypervisor to divide a physical system into multiple isolated virtual machines.

Most VPS hosting providers give full root access to install your own software and operating system. Unlike shared hosting, what you do with your account will not affect other users and vice versa. This is why VPS hosting is the go-to pick for technical users who want complete control over their server environment.

On average, virtual private servers cost around $10–100/month. VPS hosting prices often vary due to the allocated central processing unit (CPU), random access memory (RAM), and solid-state drive (SSD) storage.

Each web hosting company may have its own set of VPS hosting prices. Hostinger offers self-managed VPS hosting ranging from $4.99 to $19.99/month. With this option, you handle all server tasks yourself. But don’t worry, all plans include a dedicated IP for optimal performance and 24/7 customer support.

If you want to create an ecommerce or multimedia website, the KVM 2 hosting plan for $6.99/month is a great choice. On the other hand, the KVM 4 plan, for $9.99/month, is a great option for resource-intensive websites.

Additionally, VPS’ flexibility and hardware capability make this web hosting type suitable for hosting popular games with dedicated servers like Minecraft. 

With Hostinger, you can upgrade your VPS hosting plan without downtime. Therefore, we recommend getting the smaller plan first if you’re still unsure.

Pros

• Complete control. Users have more control over their hosting environment.
• Suitable for traffic surges. VPS hosting handles traffic surges better than shared hosting.
• Better privacy. This hosting type secures your files and databases from other server users.

Cons

• Higher average cost. The average virtual server hosting cost is more expensive than shared hosting.
• Steep learning curve. Users need technical knowledge to utilize VPS web hosting entirely.
• More responsibility. Users are responsible for setting up and managing their VPS hosting.

Cloud web hosting

Similar to VPS hosting, cloud hosting allocates dedicated resources for your website. However, instead of relying on a single physical server like VPS, cloud hosting uses multiple virtual servers. This setup provides higher uptime, excellent scalability, and better resistance to hardware issues. If one server fails, another keeps your website running. You can purchase this hosting plan for $10-200/month

When you choose cloud hosting, look for a provider that offers basic features like free domain registration and an SSL certificate. Hostinger’s cloud hosting plans, ranging from $7.99 to $29.99/month, include both plus 10 mailboxes per website, a dedicated IP address, and a free CDN.

Since pricing depends on RAM and CPU, consider your traffic potential when choosing a cloud hosting plan. For example, medium-sized businesses can start with the Cloud Startup plan for $7.99/month. Once your business website gets busier, upgrade to Cloud Enterprise plan for $29.99/month.

Pros

• High reliability. When one server fails, the website uses other servers to stay online.
• Traffic load balancing. Cloud hosting maintains website performance even when traffic is high.
• Scalability. When growing your website, upgrade your bandwidth and storage to support the increased needs.

Cons

• Limited control. The web host manages cloud hosting. As such, users assume less control over their hosting environment.
• Higher average cost. The average cost of cloud hosting is higher than shared hosting and VPS.
• Security vulnerabilities. Improper configuration can cause security issues.

Dedicated hosting

With dedicated hosting, you have an entire physical server allocated only for you. These dedicated hosting plans give users complete control over their server environment, allowing you to customize the software, operating system, and general configurations.

Dedicated hosting prices are the highest, ranging from $80-500/month. The price depends on the bandwidth, storage, and RAM needed for big projects and businesses. Therefore, a dedicated server is the best option for high-traffic sites that require consistent uptime and fast speed, like a large ecommerce marketplace or a multimedia website.

There are two types of dedicated servers – managed and unmanaged. A managed dedicated web hosting service offers professional support to help you with any issue. Meanwhile, an unmanaged server is a type of dedicated hosting that does not provide customer support. Although the flexibility is excellent, unmanaged dedicated servers require advanced technical knowledge and skills as you are responsible for maintaining them.

Check if the web host charges extra for data transfers with dedicated hosting. It’s better to choose a plan with a flat fee for data transfers for a more cost-effective option. Look for plans with unlimited websites, domains, and email accounts for the best value.

Pros

• Full control. Assume total control over the physical server.
• Flexible to your needs. Configure your hosting according to your requirements and preferences.
• Suitable for heavy traffic. Lets you host large websites with heavy traffic.

Cons

• Steep learning curve. Advanced technical skills are necessary to utilize a dedicated server.
• High cost. Dedicated servers are the most expensive web hosting type.
• Full responsibility for unmanaged servers. Since it does not always include professional customer support, you are likely responsible for managing the server.

WordPress hosting

WordPress hosting improves the performance and security of websites built on the WordPress content management system (CMS). This web hosting type also simplifies your WordPress website-making process.

WordPress website hosting differentiates itself from other hosting options with WordPress-specific features, such as the one-click installer and security tool. Many web hosting providers also grant their clients access to a WordPress support team.

The average cost for WordPress hosting plans is higher than shared hosting. The cost to host websites using this option can reach around $25/month, depending on the provider. Managed WordPress hosting is usually pricier, with costs ranging up to $200/month.

With Hostinger, WordPress hosting prices range from $2.99 to $7.99/month. In addition to basic features like unlimited free SSL and backup features, all plans also include free pre-built templates, a WordPress vulnerability scanner, and smart auto updates.

The Premium hosting plan, for $2.99/month, is suitable for beginners. It comes with free email accounts and WordPress multisite support. However, a medium-sized website can benefit more from using the Business plan. For $3.79/month, you get a free CDN and WordPress staging tool.

Check out our article on shared vs managed WordPress hosting to get a better understanding of the price difference.

Pros

• WordPress-specific features. Most WordPress web hosting plans include features and tools to improve performance and security.
• Automatic updates. Update your WordPress plugins and themes automatically.
• Dedicated support. Get access to a dedicated expert team to solve WordPress-related issues.

Cons

• Pre-installed plugins and themes. Some of the pre-installed features might not be suitable for your needs.
• Shared server. Many providers only offer WordPress hosting in a shared environment, which is more likely to pose performance issues.

Other costs of owning a website

Web hosting cost is not the only element you need to consider when budgeting a website. Here are several other main costs of building a website:

Domain name

A domain name works as an address that directs users to a website. Without a domain, users must enter your website’s IP address to find your content. As such, having a memorable domain name is essential for the overall user experience.

Domain and hosting prices are often separate, but many providers offer both together for easier management. For example, some long-term Hostinger plans even include a free domain, so you can register a new one in minutes. Use our domain name search tool to check availability and register it during hosting setup.

In addition, Hostinger includes a free domain registration with most of its hosting packages. Check your provider to see if your hosting plan includes a free domain to save money. Otherwise, our guide on how to buy a domain name can help you secure one hassle-free.

If you purchase a domain name separately from your website hosting, consider the different elements affecting the price.

For example, popular top-level domains (TLDs), such as .com, .net, and .org, are generally more expensive. On the other hand, domain endings like .store and .online are often more affordable.

TLD	Registration	Renewal	Transfer
.com	$9.99	$17.99	$9.99
.co.uk	$7.99	$11.99	$0.99
.info	$2.99	$28.99	$20.99
.net	$14.99	$17.99	$14.99
.xyz	$29.97	$41.97	$12.99

Additionally, the name itself can influence a domain’s price. Some of the most expensive domains are names with high branding potential. For example, business.com was once sold for $345 million.

Use a domain name search tool to find out a domain’s availability and price.

Another cost to consider is domain privacy protection. Some registrars, like Hostinger, include it for free to keep your domain information private, while others charge extra.

SSL certificate

An SSL/TLS encrypts all data transferred between a website server and a browser. Its primary purpose is to prevent unauthorized users from accessing sensitive information. Having an SSL has many benefits and it helps you rank higher on search engines.

Many web hosting services include a free SSL certificate in their hosting packages. Hostinger’s free SSL certificate is as secure as the paid ones. It uses a domain-validated certificate compliant with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). Hostinger also renews all certificates automatically for free to help users save money.

If your hosting provider does not include this offer, get a free SSL certificate using Let’s Encrypt. Another option is to purchase one from a trustworthy certificate authority (CA).

The cost of an SSL depends on several factors, such as the number of domains and subdomains it can cover. The price for a single-domain SSL is around $8–60/year. A Wildcard SSL certificate, which secures one domain plus all its subdomains, ranges from $50 to $500/year, though some premium options can go up to $1,000/year.

There are three types of SSL/TLS certificates according to their validation level:

• Domain-validated certificates (DV). The CA will ask you to verify the domain ownership via email, phone, or DNS record.
• Organization-validated certificates (OV). The CA will check the documentation that verifies the organization’s name, contact information, and legal status.
• Extended validation certificates (EV). The CA will conduct extensive background checks to verify the registrant’s location, legal status, and order details.

All types provide the same encryption level, but some websites might need certificates with a higher validation level.

Extensions

Extensions enhance the overall site functionality, from adding pop-up messages for better conversions to improving security. Each website platform has its own set of free and paid extensions.

For example, WordPress is known for its extensive gallery of plugins. Some WordPress plugins are free, making them suitable for small to medium-sized websites. Once your site grows, consider premium plugins like WP Rocket and OptinMonster for better features. Premium plugins cost between $2 and $1000/year.

Another source to get website extensions is a third-party marketplace like CodeCanyon. A third-party marketplace lets you purchase multiple plugins from the same platform.

Themes

Themes help customize your website to make it more attractive and engaging. Whether you use a website builder or a CMS, you will most likely find free pre-made themes.

For example, WordPress offers 9,000+ themes for various website types in its directory. Many are free, making them great to start your website.

However, purchasing a premium theme can create stronger branding. Premium themes often come with developer support and regular updates. The price ranges from $2 to 200/year for a one-time payment.

TemplateMonster is one of the most popular marketplaces for premium or paid themes. It offers subscription plans starting from around $4/month, ideal for those wanting flexibility to switch designs without extra cost.

Ecommerce features

Ecommerce websites are often more expensive than regular websites as you will need additional features to manage and sell products and services.

When starting an online store, consider your type of business and the number of products or services you want to sell.

The average cost for basic ecommerce features is around $15/month. However, the size and traffic of your ecommerce website will influence the total cost. Here are some vital ecommerce features to consider:

• Ecommerce platform. Use a platform that includes all the essential features to sell online. ecommerce platforms offering core features cost around $10–15/month.
• Payment gateways. Build customers’ trust and encourage transactions with a reliable payment gateway. A payment gateway for an average-sized online store costs between $15-25/month.
• Inventory management. Manage your products and services easily using an inventory management tool. Smaller websites can use free inventory management. If you have plenty of inventory, inventory management may cost up to around $1,000/month.

Some web hosts offer plans for specific ecommerce platforms to save you money. For example, Hostinger offers two ecommerce hosting options:

• WooCommerce hosting. Includes ecommerce features with the WooCommerce platform. Plans start at $3.99/month and offer free domain name registration and custom email accounts.
• PrestaShop hosting. Uses the PrestaShop platform to help create your store immediately. The web hosting prices range from $3.79 to $15.99/month with unlimited bandwidth and databases.

Marketing tools

Marketing tools are essential to expand your reach, grow your audience, and increase conversions. Some marketing efforts, such as social media advertising, email campaigns, and search engine optimization (SEO), require special tools.

The pricing for marketing tools varies depending on your needs. When starting, expect to pay around $10-150/month for each marketing tool.

Here are the average costs for different types of marketing tools:

• SEO tools. Improving your website’s ranking using an SEO tool like Ahrefs costs $99-999/month. Many SEO tools often include features to analyze keywords, backlinks, and on-page issues.
• Email marketing tools. Create regular newsletters to keep your website visitors up-to-date. Mailchimp is an excellent tool for sending marketing emails to your subscribers. It offers a free plan to start. Once you have 2,000+ subscribers, premium upgrades start at $34/month.
• Social media marketing tools. Increase your audience by targeting social media users. Paid advertising on social media may cost $7-9 for 1,000 impressions.

Alternatively, use a website builder like Hostinger to get marketing tools included with the pricing plans.

Can I host a website for free?

Yes, you can host a website for free. Several platforms, such as WordPress.com and Blogger, offer free plans that are great for a personal blog, a school project, or just testing out a new idea. These options are a good start, but they do have some limitations that might not work for a professional website.

The biggest drawbacks of free hosting are the lack of control and limited resources. Most free plans have limited storage and bandwidth, which can slow down or block your site with high traffic. Free hosting providers also tend to restrict the use of custom domains and displaying ads on your website, which can negatively impact your branding.

For these reasons, most people upgrade to a paid plan once they’re ready to get serious. Even an entry-level shared hosting plan is a huge step up, giving you better performance, more security, and full control over your site for a very low price.

Should I pay for hosting monthly or annually?

The choice between monthly or annual payments comes down to flexibility versus cost. Monthly payments are great if you’re just trying out a website or a business idea and don’t want to commit. You have the freedom to cancel anytime you want.

However, choosing a longer-term plan is a great way to save money. For example, Hostinger’s monthly Business web hosting plan costs $13.99, but it drops to just $3.79/month if you sign up for a 48-month term. You lock in that low rate for four years and get a free domain for the first year.

What features should be included in website hosting cost?

Your hosting plan should provide sufficient storage and bandwidth to handle your website’s size and traffic. While budget matters, it’s important to choose the right hosting type based on your needs. For example, shared hosting is the most affordable option, but it offers less power compared to other types.

Another key feature to consider is the customer support provided by the hosting company. Look for 24/7 support availability with multiple contact options like phone, email, or chat for any technical issues or questions. Having a reliable team to solve problems quickly reduces downtime and protects your credibility.

Security is also a crucial aspect when choosing a hosting plan. Make sure the provider offers strong security measures such as SSL certificates, regular backups, and secure servers to protect your website and data from cyber attacks.

Free domain name and professional email accounts can save you the hassle of managing separate platforms, which can cost you time in the long run. Additional services like website builders and ecommerce features are also worth considering, depending on your website needs.

What is the most affordable way to host a website?

Hosting a website doesn’t have to be expensive, but the most affordable option isn’t always the one with the lowest price tag. The key is to research and choose what offers the best value for your needs.

First, always choose a hosting type that fits your project. If you’re a beginner with a new blog or small business, shared hosting is the most affordable way to start. For CMS users, finding the best wordpress hosting plan is another way to get the features you need without paying for things you don’t. As your website grows, you can always upgrade later.

Second, look out for discounts and bundles. Many hosting providers offer discounts on long-term plans, helping you lock in lower prices and avoid future increases. When considering domain vs hosting, pick a plan that includes a free domain name, SSL certificate, and email accounts. Bundled features save you money on services you’d otherwise pay for separately.

Finally, keep your extra costs to a minimum. Avoid paying for unnecessary addons, premium themes, or extra marketing tools when you’re just starting. By focusing on core needs, you can easily host a website on a budget that works for you.

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