Table of Contents (Jump Links)
- Introduction
- Why Website Prices Vary So Much?
- Typical Website Cost in Philippines
- Additional Ongoing Costs
- Market Research: Sample Rates from Agencies & Freelancers
- Pros and Cons of Different Options
- Example Scenarios
- Factors Affecting Website Pricing
- Conclusion
Introduction
Planning to build a website for your business in the Philippines? You're probably wondering, "How much is a website in Philippines?" The truth is, website costs in the Philippines vary dramatically—from as low as ₱15,000 for basic sites to over ₱500,000 for complex custom applications.
In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we'll break down every aspect of website pricing in the Philippines, from initial development costs to ongoing maintenance expenses. Whether you're a small business owner, entrepreneur, or simply curious about web development costs, this guide will help you make informed decisions and budget effectively for your online presence.
The Philippine digital landscape has evolved significantly, with more businesses recognizing the importance of having a professional website. However, with so many options available—from freelancers to agencies to DIY website builders—understanding the true cost of a website can be overwhelming.
Why Website Prices Vary So Much
Understanding why website prices vary so much in the Philippines is crucial before diving into specific costs. Several key factors contribute to these price differences:
Geographic Location Impact Metro Manila agencies typically charge 30-50% more than provincial developers due to higher operating costs and market demand. A website that costs ₱80,000 in Makati might cost ₱50,000 in Cebu or Davao.
Developer Experience and Expertise Senior developers with 5+ years of experience command premium rates, while fresh graduates or junior developers offer more budget-friendly options. The quality difference is often reflected in code efficiency, design aesthetics, and project timeline adherence.
Technology Stack and Complexity Simple HTML/CSS websites cost significantly less than dynamic applications requiring databases, user authentication, or third-party integrations. Modern frameworks like React, Vue.js, or complex CMS implementations drive costs higher.
Market Positioning Some agencies position themselves as premium service providers, while others focus on volume and competitive pricing. This positioning directly affects their pricing structure and target market.
Project Timeline Requirements Rush projects typically cost 50-100% more due to the need for overtime work or priority scheduling. Standard timelines of 4-8 weeks for business websites offer the most competitive rates.
Typical Website Cost in Philippines
Let's examine the current market rates for different types of websites in the Philippines, based on 2025 data and industry research.
Static Website
Static websites represent the most basic form of web presence, consisting of fixed content that doesn't change without manual updates. These sites are perfect for businesses needing simple online presence with company information, services, and contact details.
Market Rates:
- Budget Range: ₱15,000 - ₱35,000
- Personal Experience: At Praferosa Web Works, static websites are priced between ₱20,000 to ₱35,000, though some developers charge lower rates
- Typical Package Includes: 5-10 pages, responsive design, basic SEO optimization, contact forms
What You Get: Static websites typically include homepage, about us page, services/products pages, contact page, and sometimes a blog section. The design is usually template-based with custom branding elements like colors, fonts, and imagery.
Best For: Small businesses, professionals, consultants, or anyone needing basic online presence without frequent content updates or interactive features.
WordPress Website
WordPress powers over 40% of websites globally and is extremely popular in the Philippines due to its flexibility and relatively affordable development costs.
Current Market Rates:
- Standard Range: ₱10,000 to ₱50,000
- Professional Packages: ₱30,000 - ₱80,000
Industry Examples:
- Starfi.sh Basic Web Design Package: ₱30,000 (includes responsive design, basic SEO, content management training)
- TrueLogic WordPress Development: ₱20,000 to ₱30,000 (varies based on customization requirements)
What Affects WordPress Pricing:
- Theme Selection: Premium themes (₱2,000-₱8,000) vs custom design (₱15,000-₱40,000)
- Plugin Requirements: Basic plugins are often free, premium plugins can add ₱5,000-₱15,000
- Customization Level: Template modifications vs completely custom development
- Content Management: Client-provided content vs professional content creation
WordPress Package Typically Includes:
- Responsive WordPress theme
- Basic SEO setup
- Contact forms
- Social media integration
- Admin training
- 1-3 months of support
Website Builders (Wix, Squarespace, etc.)
Website builders offer a middle ground between DIY and professional development, with many Filipino developers offering setup and customization services.
DIY Costs:
- Wix: ₱270-₱2,250 per month
- Squarespace: ₱550-₱1,800 per month
- Shopify ₱1,500-₱15,000 per month
Professional Setup Services:
- Basic Setup: ₱8,000-₱15,000
- Custom Design: ₱15,000-₱30,000
- Full Migration: ₱20,000-₱45,000
Advantages of Website Builders:
- Quick deployment (1-2 weeks)
- Built-in hosting and security
- Regular updates and maintenance
- User-friendly content management
Disadvantages:
- Monthly subscription costs
- Limited customization options
- Platform dependency
- Potential loading speed issues
E-Commerce Websites (Shopify, WooCommerce, etc.)
E-commerce websites require significantly more development time and technical expertise, resulting in higher costs across all provider types.
Current Market Rates:
- Basic Online Store: ₱50,000 - ₱100,000
- Professional E-commerce: ₱100,000 - ₱200,000
- Enterprise Solution: ₱200,000 - ₱500,000+
E-commerce or online store website projects typically range from ₱100,000 to ₱200,000, reflecting the complexity involved in creating secure, functional online stores.
E-commerce Development Includes:
- Product catalog management
- Shopping cart functionality
- Payment gateway integration (PayMaya, GCash, PayPal)
- Inventory management system
- Order tracking and management
- Customer account creation
- Mobile-responsive design
- SSL certificate installation
- Basic SEO optimization
Popular Platforms and Costs:
- WooCommerce (WordPress): ₱80,000-₱180,000
- Shopify Custom: ₱100,000-₱250,000
- Magento: ₱150,000-₱300,000
- Custom Solution: ₱200,000-₱500,000+
Custom Web Apps / Dynamic Websites
Custom web applications represent the most sophisticated and expensive category of website development, requiring specialized skills and extensive development time.
Market Rates (Based on Hostinger Data):
- Agencies: $20,000 to $150,000 (₱1,100,000 to ₱8,250,000)
- Freelancers: $10,000 to $40,000 (₱550,000 to ₱2,200,000)
Philippine Market Reality:
- Local Agencies: ₱300,000 - ₱2,000,000
- Experienced Freelancers: ₱150,000 - ₱800,000
- Startups/Junior Developers: ₱100,000 - ₱400,000
Custom Web App Features:
- User authentication and authorization
- Database integration
- API development and integration
- Real-time functionality
- Advanced security measures
- Scalable architecture
- Custom admin panels
- Third-party service integrations
Development Timeline: Custom web applications typically require 3-12 months of development time, depending on complexity and feature requirements.
Additional Ongoing Costs
Building a website is just the beginning. Understanding ongoing costs is crucial for proper budget planning and long-term website success.
Domain
Your domain name is your website's address on the internet, and costs vary significantly based on the extension and registrar chosen.
Personal Recommendation: Porkbun.com offers excellent value at approximately ₱600 annually for .com domains, providing competitive pricing with reliable service.
Popular Registrars in Philippines:
- .com domains: ₱650-₱850 per year
- .ph domains: ₱1,200-₱1,800 per year
- Often includes promotional pricing for first year
- .com domains: ₱550-₱750 per year
- .net domains: ₱600-₱800 per year
- Free WhoisGuard privacy protection
DotPH (Official .ph Registry):
- Standard .ph domains: ₱2,090 per year (approximately $38 USD)
- Premium .ph domains: ₱5,000-₱15,000+ per year
- Required for businesses wanting local Philippine domain presence
Domain Cost Considerations:
- Renewal rates often higher than promotional first-year pricing
- Privacy protection adds ₱200-₱500 annually
- Premium domains can cost thousands more
- Multi-year registrations often offer discounts
Hosting
Web hosting is where your website files live and is crucial for website performance, security, and uptime. Costs vary based on hosting type and resource requirements.
Top Hosting Providers in Philippines:
- Shared Hosting: ₱69-₱409 per month
- WordPress Hosting: ₱109-₱409 per month
- VPS Hosting: ₱400-₱2,000+ per month
- Includes free SSL certificate and domain
- 99.9% uptime guarantee
- Shared Hosting: ₱150-₱600 per month
- WordPress Hosting: ₱200-₱800 per month
- Popular among WordPress developers
- Free CDN and SSL included
- Shared Hosting: ₱200-₱700 per month
- Managed WordPress: ₱300-₱900 per month
- Known for speed optimization
- Global server locations
- StartUp Plan: ₱300-₱400 per month
- GrowBig Plan: ₱500-₱700 per month
- GoGeek Plan: ₱800-₱1,200 per month
- Excellent customer support
- Advanced security features
- Managed WordPress: ₱1,500-₱6,000+ per month
- Enterprise-level hosting
- Premium performance optimization
- Developer-friendly features
Hosting Type Recommendations:
- Shared Hosting: Best for small businesses, blogs (₱69-₱500/month)
- VPS Hosting: Growing businesses, higher traffic (₱400-₱2,000/month)
- Dedicated Hosting: Large businesses, high-traffic sites (₱3,000-₱15,000+/month)
- Managed WordPress: WordPress-specific optimization (₱200-₱1,500/month)
SSL, Email, Backups
Beyond basic hosting, several additional services are essential for professional websites.
SSL Certificates:
- Free SSL: Let's Encrypt (included with most hosting)
- Basic SSL: ₱500-₱2,000 per year
- Wildcard SSL: ₱3,000-₱8,000 per year
- Extended Validation SSL: ₱5,000-₱15,000 per year
Professional Email Hosting:
- Google Workspace: ₱300-₱900 per user/month
- Microsoft 365: ₱250-₱800 per user/month
- cPanel Email: ₱50-₱200 per account/month
- Custom Email Setup: ₱2,000-₱5,000 one-time
Backup Solutions:
- Basic Automated Backups: ₱200-₱500 per month
- Advanced Backup Service: ₱500-₱1,500 per month
- Manual Backup Setup: ₱3,000-₱8,000 one-time
- Disaster Recovery Plan: ₱10,000-₱30,000 setup
Updates & Maintenance
Regular website maintenance ensures security, performance, and functionality. Costs depend on website complexity and update frequency.
Monthly Maintenance Packages:
Basic Maintenance: ₱2,000-₱5,000 per month
- Security updates
- Plugin/theme updates
- Basic content updates
- Monthly backup verification
Standard Maintenance: ₱5,000-₱10,000 per month
- Everything in basic
- Content management
- Performance optimization
- SEO monitoring
- Analytics reporting
Premium Maintenance: ₱10,000-₱25,000+ per month
- Everything in standard
- Priority support
- Advanced security monitoring
- Conversion optimization
- Technical consulting
One-time Maintenance Services:
- Security Audit: ₱5,000-₱15,000
- Performance Optimization: ₱8,000-₱20,000
- Design Refresh: ₱15,000-₱50,000
- Platform Migration: ₱25,000-₱100,000
Security
Website security is increasingly important, with costs varying based on protection level and monitoring requirements.
Security Services:
- Basic Security Plugin: ₱0-₱2,000 per year
- Premium Security Suite: ₱3,000-₱8,000 per year
- Managed Security Service: ₱5,000-₱15,000 per month
- Security Audit & Hardening: ₱10,000-₱30,000 one-time
Advanced Security Features:
- Web Application Firewall: ₱1,000-₱5,000 per month
- DDoS Protection: ₱2,000-₱10,000 per month
- Malware Scanning: ₱1,500-₱4,000 per month
- Penetration Testing: ₱20,000-₱50,000 per audit
Market Research: Sample Rates from Agencies & Freelancers
Understanding the Philippine web development market requires examining different provider types and their pricing strategies.
Agencies (Metro Manila vs Provincial)
Metro Manila Agencies:
Premium Tier Agencies (Makati, BGC, Ortigas)
- Basic Business Website: ₱80,000-₱150,000
- E-commerce Site: ₱200,000-₱400,000
- Custom Web App: ₱500,000-₱2,000,000+
- Hourly Rate: ₱2,500-₱5,000 per hour
Mid-Tier Manila Agencies
- Basic Business Website: ₱50,000-₱100,000
- E-commerce Site: ₱120,000-₱250,000
- Custom Web App: ₱300,000-₱800,000
- Hourly Rate: ₱1,500-₱3,000 per hour
Provincial Agencies (Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Baguio):
- Basic Business Website: ₱30,000-₱80,000
- E-commerce Site: ₱80,000-₱180,000
- Custom Web App: ₱200,000-₱600,000
- Hourly Rate: ₱1,000-₱2,500 per hour
Why Agencies Don't Show Upfront Pricing:
Filipino agencies typically avoid displaying transparent pricing on their websites for several strategic reasons:
Custom Consultation Approach Agencies prefer clients to inquire first, allowing them to understand specific needs and sell appropriate packages or upsell additional services. This approach enables them to position higher-value solutions.
Flexible Pricing Strategy Since website requirements vary dramatically, agencies keep pricing flexible. A ₱50,000 project for one client might become ₱150,000 for another with additional features, integrations, or timeline requirements.
Market Positioning Many agencies position themselves as premium service providers, preferring to discuss value and ROI rather than compete purely on price. Upfront pricing might commoditize their services.
Package Customization Agencies excel at creating custom proposals bundling design, development, maintenance, and marketing services. This comprehensive approach is difficult to price transparently without understanding client needs.
Freelancers (Hourly & Package Rates)
Freelancer Transparency Advantage Unlike agencies, Filipino freelancers typically offer more transparent pricing, often displaying package rates and hourly charges on their profiles or websites.
Experience-Based Pricing:
Senior Freelancers (5+ years experience)
- Hourly Rate: ₱800-₱2,000 per hour
- Basic Website Package: ₱25,000-₱60,000
- E-commerce Package: ₱60,000-₱150,000
- Custom Development: ₱100,000-₱400,000
Mid-Level Freelancers (2-5 years experience)
- Hourly Rate: ₱500-₱1,200 per hour
- Basic Website Package: ₱15,000-₱40,000
- E-commerce Package: ₱40,000-₱100,000
- Custom Development: ₱60,000-₱200,000
Junior Freelancers (0-2 years experience)
- Hourly Rate: ₱200-₱600 per hour
- Basic Website Package: ₱8,000-₱25,000
- E-commerce Package: ₱20,000-₱60,000
- Custom Development: ₱30,000-₱100,000
Freelancer vs Agency Comparison:
- Freelancers: Transparent pricing, direct communication, flexible timelines, lower overhead costs
- Agencies: Custom quotes, higher price points, team approach, project management, comprehensive services
Website Builders (Subscription-based)
Professional Website Builder Services: Many Filipino developers offer website builder customization services, combining the ease of platforms like Wix or Squarespace with professional design expertise.
Service Packages:
- Basic Setup: ₱5,000-₱15,000 + monthly platform fees
- Custom Design: ₱15,000-₱35,000 + monthly platform fees
- E-commerce Setup: ₱20,000-₱50,000 + monthly platform fees
- Full Migration Service: ₱25,000-₱60,000 + monthly platform fees
Monthly Platform Costs:
- Wix: ₱270-₱2,250 per month
- Squarespace: ₱550-₱1,800 per month
- Shopify: ₱1,500-₱15,000 per month
- WordPress.com: ₱200-₱1,500 per month
Pros & Cons of Different Options
Choosing the right development approach significantly impacts your website's cost, timeline, and long-term success. Here's a detailed comparison of each option.
Freelancer
Advantages:
Cost Effectiveness Freelancers typically offer 30-50% lower rates than agencies due to reduced overhead costs. Without office rent, large teams, or administrative expenses, freelancers can provide competitive pricing while maintaining quality.
Direct Communication Working directly with the developer ensures clear communication, faster decision-making, and immediate feedback implementation. No middleman means your requests reach the person actually building your website.
Flexibility and Personalization Freelancers often provide more personalized service, adapting to your schedule, preferences, and working style. They're typically more willing to accommodate special requests or unique project requirements.
Specialized Expertise Many freelancers specialize in specific technologies or industries, offering deep expertise in areas like WordPress development, e-commerce solutions, or mobile optimization.
Disadvantages:
Limited Resources Individual freelancers may lack diverse skill sets needed for complex projects requiring design, development, SEO, and content creation expertise simultaneously.
Project Timeline Risks Freelancers juggling multiple clients might face scheduling conflicts, potentially delaying project completion. Illness or personal emergencies can significantly impact timelines.
Ongoing Support Concerns Long-term maintenance and support depend entirely on the freelancer's availability and continued business operation. If they become unavailable, finding someone familiar with your project can be challenging.
Quality Variation Freelancer quality varies significantly across experience levels and specializations. Vetting requires more time and careful portfolio review.
Agency
Advantages:
Comprehensive Service Teams Agencies provide complete teams including project managers, designers, developers, SEO specialists, and quality assurance professionals, ensuring all aspects of your project receive expert attention.
Established Processes Professional agencies follow proven project management methodologies, maintaining consistent quality standards and meeting deadlines through structured workflows.
Scalability and Resources Agencies can handle large, complex projects requiring multiple team members and diverse expertise. They have resources to scale up quickly if project scope expands.
Ongoing Support Infrastructure Established agencies provide reliable long-term support, maintenance, and updates through dedicated account management and support teams.
Legal and Financial Security Working with registered businesses provides legal protections, contracts, and financial accountability that individual freelancers might not offer.
Disadvantages:
Higher Costs Agency overhead costs (office space, management, administration) typically result in 50-100% higher rates compared to equivalent freelancer expertise.
Communication Layers Multiple communication levels between client and developer can slow decision-making and increase chances of miscommunication or scope creep.
Less Personal Attention Large agencies handling numerous clients simultaneously may provide less personalized service and attention to individual project details.
Standardized Approaches Agencies often rely on standardized processes and solutions, potentially limiting creativity or unique customization options.
DIY Website Builders
Advantages:
Quick Launch Time Website builders enable launching professional-looking websites within days or weeks, compared to months for custom development.
User-Friendly Interface Drag-and-drop builders require no technical knowledge, allowing business owners to create and manage websites independently.
Built-in Features Most builders include hosting, SSL certificates, backup systems, and security features, eliminating the need to manage multiple service providers.
Cost Predictability Monthly subscription models provide predictable costs without surprise expenses or additional service fees.
Regular Updates Platform providers handle security updates, feature additions, and technical maintenance automatically.
Disadvantages:
Limited Customization Template-based designs restrict unique branding opportunities and advanced functionality implementation.
Ongoing Subscription Costs Monthly fees accumulate over time, potentially exceeding custom website development costs over several years.
Platform Dependency Switching platforms often requires rebuilding the entire website, creating long-term vendor lock-in situations.
SEO and Performance Limitations Many builders generate bloated code affecting website loading speeds and search engine optimization potential.
Scalability Constraints Growing businesses may outgrow builder platforms' capabilities, necessitating eventual migration to custom solutions.
Example Scenarios (For Better Imagination)
Understanding website costs becomes clearer through specific business examples that many Filipino entrepreneurs can relate to.
Small Business Looking for 'Online Presence and Business Credibility'
Business Profile: Local accounting firm with 5 employees wanting to establish credibility and provide basic information to potential clients.
Website Requirements:
- Professional homepage with company overview
- Services page detailing accounting packages
- About us page with team photos and credentials
- Contact page with office location and contact forms
- Testimonials section for client feedback
- Mobile-responsive design
- Basic SEO optimization
Cost Breakdown:
Freelancer Option:
- Development: ₱20,000-₱35,000
- Domain (.com): ₱600/year
- Hosting: ₱1,200-₱2,400/year
- Professional Email: ₱3,600/year
- SSL Certificate: Included with hosting
- Total First Year: ₱25,400-₱41,600
- Annual Ongoing: ₱5,400-₱6,600
Agency Option:
- Development: ₱45,000-₱80,000
- Domain (.com): ₱600/year
- Hosting: ₱2,400-₱4,800/year
- Professional Email: ₱3,600/year
- SSL Certificate: Included
- Total First Year: ₱51,600-₱89,000
- Annual Ongoing: ₱6,600-₱9,000
Website Builder Option:
- Platform Setup: ₱8,000-₱15,000
- Wix Business Plan: ₱5,400/year
- Domain: Usually included
- Professional Email: ₱3,600/year
- Total First Year: ₱17,000-₱24,000
- Annual Ongoing: ₱9,000/year
Recommendation: Freelancer option provides best value for basic credibility websites, offering professional results at reasonable costs.
Restaurant with Menu and Contact Form
Business Profile: Mid-sized restaurant chain (3 locations) needing online presence with menu display, location information, and reservation functionality.
Website Requirements:
- Attractive homepage with restaurant photos
- Complete menu with prices and descriptions
- Location pages for each branch
- Online reservation system
- Contact forms for inquiries
- Social media integration
- Mobile-responsive design (crucial for restaurant customers)
- Google Maps integration
- Gallery showcasing food and ambiance
Cost Breakdown:
WordPress Option:
- Development: ₱35,000-₱65,000
- Reservation Plugin: ₱3,000-₱8,000
- Premium Theme: ₱3,000
- Domain (.com): ₱600/year
- Hosting: ₱2,400-₱4,800/year
- Professional Email: ₱3,600/year
- SSL Certificate: Included
- Total First Year: ₱47,600-₱85,000
- Annual Ongoing: ₱6,600-₱9,000
Custom Development Option:
- Development: ₱80,000-₱150,000
- Reservation System: ₱25,000-₱50,000
- Domain (.com): ₱600/year
- Hosting: ₱4,800-₱9,600/year
- Professional Email: ₱3,600/year
- SSL Certificate: ₱2,000/year
- Total First Year: ₱116,000-₱215,800
- Annual Ongoing: ₱11,000-₱15,800
Recommendation: WordPress solution with reservation plugin offers excellent functionality-to-cost ratio, providing professional features without custom development expenses.
Dental Clinic with Online Booking System
Business Profile: Modern dental clinic with multiple dentists wanting to streamline appointment booking and reduce phone call volume.
Website Requirements:
- Professional homepage building trust and credibility
- Services pages detailing dental procedures
- Dentist profiles with qualifications and photos
- Online appointment booking system
- Patient portal for records and communication
- Insurance and payment information
- Before/after gallery (with patient consent)
- Blog section for dental health tips
- Integration with practice management software
- HIPAA-compliant security measures
Cost Breakdown:
WordPress with Booking Plugin:
- Development: ₱50,000-₱90,000
- Advanced Booking System: ₱8,000-₱15,000
- Patient Portal Plugin: ₱5,000-₱12,000
- Security Enhancements: ₱8,000-₱15,000
- Domain (.com): ₱600/year
- Premium Hosting: ₱4,800-₱9,600/year
- Professional Email: ₱3,600/year
- SSL Certificate: ₱2,000/year
- Total First Year: ₱82,000-₱155,200
- Annual Ongoing: ₱11,000-₱15,800
Custom Application Option:
- Development: ₱200,000-₱400,000
- Booking System Integration: ₱50,000-₱100,000
- Patient Portal: ₱40,000-₱80,000
- Security Implementation: ₱25,000-₱50,000
- Domain (.com): ₱600/year
- Premium Hosting: ₱9,600-₱19,200/year
- Professional Email: ₱3,600/year
- SSL Certificate: ₱5,000/year
- Total First Year: ₱333,800-₱658,400
- Annual Ongoing: ₱18,800-₱28,400
Recommendation: Start with WordPress booking solution, then upgrade to custom system as practice grows and requirements become more specific.
Online Store with 50+ Products
Business Profile: Fashion boutique expanding from physical store to online sales, requiring comprehensive e-commerce functionality.
Website Requirements:
- Professional e-commerce design reflecting brand identity
- Product catalog with high-quality images
- Inventory management system
- Shopping cart and checkout process
- Multiple payment options (GCash, PayMaya, credit cards, bank transfer)
- Order tracking and management
- Customer account creation
- Product reviews and ratings
- Mobile-optimized shopping experience
- Basic SEO for product discovery
- Social media integration
- Analytics and reporting
Cost Breakdown:
WooCommerce Solution:
- Development: ₱80,000-₱150,000
- Premium E-commerce Theme: ₱5,000-₱10,000
- Essential Plugins: ₱10,000-₱20,000
- Payment Gateway Setup: ₱5,000-₱10,000
- Product Photography: ₱15,000-₱30,000
- Domain (.com): ₱600/year
- E-commerce Hosting: ₱6,000-₱12,000/year
- Professional Email: ₱3,600/year
- SSL Certificate: ₱2,000/year
- Total First Year: ₱127,200-₱243,200
- Annual Ongoing: ₱12,200-₱17,200
Shopify Custom Solution:
- Development & Setup: ₱100,000-₱200,000
- Custom Theme: ₱20,000-₱50,000
- App Integrations: ₱8,000-₱15,000
- Product Photography: ₱15,000-₱30,000
- Shopify Plan: ₱18,000/year
- Domain: ₱600/year
- Professional Email: ₱3,600/year
- Total First Year: ₱165,200-₱317,200
- Annual Ongoing: ₱22,200/year
Custom E-commerce Platform:
- Development: ₱250,000-₱500,000
- Payment Integration: ₱30,000-₱60,000
- Inventory Management: ₱40,000-₱80,000
- Admin Panel: ₱50,000-₱100,000
- Product Photography: ₱15,000-₱30,000
- Domain (.com): ₱600/year
- Premium Hosting: ₱12,000-₱24,000/year
- Professional Email: ₱3,600/year
- SSL Certificate: ₱5,000/year
- Total First Year: ₱406,200-₱802,600
- Annual Ongoing: ₱21,200-₱33,200
Recommendation: WooCommerce provides excellent balance of functionality, cost-effectiveness, and scalability for growing online stores.
Factors Affecting Website Pricing
Understanding what drives website costs helps in budgeting and making informed decisions about project scope and priorities.
Design Complexity
Template-Based Design (₱5,000-₱20,000) Using existing themes or templates with minor customizations represents the most cost-effective design approach. This includes color scheme adjustments, logo integration, and basic layout modifications.
Custom Design with Template Framework (₱20,000-₱60,000) Involves significant customization of existing templates or creating unique designs within framework constraints. This approach balances creativity with development efficiency.
Fully Custom Design (₱60,000-₱200,000+) Complete custom design creation from scratch, including unique layouts, custom graphics, animations, and brand-specific visual elements. Requires extensive design and development time.
Design Complexity Factors:
- Animation Requirements: Simple hover effects vs complex animations
- Custom Graphics: Stock photos vs custom illustrations/photography
- Responsive Design Complexity: Standard breakpoints vs device-specific optimization
- Brand Integration: Basic branding vs comprehensive brand system implementation
- User Experience Design: Standard layouts vs custom user journey optimization
Number of Pages
Page count significantly impacts development time and overall project cost, as each page requires design, content integration, and testing.
5-Page Website (₱15,000-₱40,000)
- Homepage
- About Us
- Services/Products
- Contact
- Blog/News (optional)
This represents the minimum viable website for most businesses, providing essential information and credibility.
10-15 Page Website (₱25,000-₱80,000)
- All basic pages plus:
- Individual service pages
- Portfolio/gallery sections
- Team member profiles
- FAQ pages
- Privacy policy and terms
Suitable for established businesses requiring comprehensive online presence.
20+ Page Website (₱50,000-₱150,000+)
- Extensive content sections
- Multiple service categories
- Detailed product catalogs
- Resource libraries
- Advanced landing pages
Required for larger businesses, e-commerce sites, or content-heavy websites.
Page-Related Cost Factors:
- Content Creation: Client-provided vs professional copywriting
- SEO Optimization: Basic optimization vs comprehensive SEO strategy per page
- Custom Functionality: Standard pages vs pages with special features
- Content Management: Static content vs dynamic, updatable sections
Features & Complexity
Website functionality dramatically affects development complexity and associated costs.
Basic Features (Contact Forms)
- Implementation Cost: ₱2,000-₱8,000
- Includes: Simple contact forms, basic form validation, email notifications
- Timeline: 1-2 days development time
Intermediate Features (Booking Systems)
- Implementation Cost: ₱15,000-₱50,000
- Includes: Calendar integration, availability management, automated confirmations, payment processing
- Timeline: 1-2 weeks development time
Advanced Features (Client Logins)
- Implementation Cost: ₱30,000-₱100,000+
- Includes: User authentication, password management, personalized dashboards, role-based access control
- Timeline: 2-4 weeks development time
Feature Complexity Examples:
E-commerce Functionality:
- Basic Shop: ₱30,000-₱80,000
- Advanced E-commerce: ₱100,000-₱300,000
- Multi-vendor Marketplace: ₱300,000-₱1,000,000+
Content Management:
- Basic CMS: ₱5,000-₱15,000
- Advanced CMS: ₱20,000-₱60,000
- Custom Publishing System: ₱80,000-₱200,000+
Integration Requirements:
- Social Media Integration: ₱3,000-₱10,000
- CRM Integration: ₱15,000-₱50,000
- ERP System Integration: ₱50,000-₱200,000+
Project Duration
Project timeline requirements significantly impact pricing, with rushed projects commanding premium rates.
Standard Timeline Pricing Most websites require 4-8 weeks for proper planning, design, development, and testing phases. This timeline allows for:
- Thorough requirement analysis
- Iterative design process
- Quality assurance testing
- Client feedback incorporation
- Content optimization
Rush Project Premiums Projects requiring completion in less than 4 weeks typically incur additional charges:
- 2-4 Week Timeline: 25-40% price increase
- 1-2 Week Timeline: 50-75% price increase
- Less than 1 Week: 100-150% price increase
Rush Timeline Challenges:
- Reduced Quality Control: Limited testing time may result in bugs or usability issues
- Higher Stress Levels: Rush work often compromises developer creativity and attention to detail
- Resource Allocation: Developers may need to postpone other projects or work overtime
- Limited Revision Cycles: Less time for client feedback and iteration
Timeline Optimization Strategies:
- Advance Planning: Start projects 2-3 months before launch requirements
- Content Preparation: Have all content, images, and requirements ready before development begins
- Decision Framework: Establish clear approval processes to avoid delays
- Phased Launch: Consider launching basic functionality first, then adding features incrementally
Revisions & Support
Revision requirements and ongoing support expectations significantly impact project scope and total costs.
Revision Allowances:
- Basic Package: 2-3 revision rounds included
- Standard Package: 4-5 revision rounds included
- Premium Package: Unlimited revisions within reason
Additional Revision Costs:
- Minor Changes: ₱500-₱2,000 per revision
- Design Modifications: ₱2,000-₱8,000 per revision
- Functional Changes: ₱5,000-₱20,000+ per revision
Support Package Options:
Basic Support (₱2,000-₱5,000/month):
- Bug fixes and technical issues
- Basic content updates
- Security updates
- Monthly backup verification
Standard Support (₱5,000-₱10,000/month):
- Everything in basic support
- Content management training
- Performance monitoring
- SEO maintenance
- Analytics reporting
Premium Support (₱10,000-₱25,000+/month):
- Everything in standard support
- Priority response times
- Proactive optimization
- Strategic consulting
- Advanced analytics insights
Tools Used
Development tools and platforms significantly influence project costs and long-term maintenance requirements.
WordPress vs Custom Code Cost Comparison:
WordPress Development:
- Advantages: Lower development costs, extensive plugin ecosystem, easier maintenance
- Cost Range: ₱15,000-₱100,000 for most projects
- Ongoing Costs: ₱2,000-₱8,000/month for maintenance
- Best For: Content websites, small-medium e-commerce, blogs
Custom Code Development:
- Advantages: Complete control, optimal performance, unique functionality
- Cost Range: ₱100,000-₱1,000,000+ for complex projects
- Ongoing Costs: ₱5,000-₱25,000+/month for maintenance
- Best For: Large applications, unique requirements, high-traffic sites
Platform-Specific Considerations:
Shopify Development:
- Monthly Platform Costs: ₱1,500-₱15,000
- Development Costs: ₱50,000-₱200,000
- Advantage: E-commerce focused, built-in payment processing
React/Vue.js Applications:
- Development Costs: ₱200,000-₱800,000+
- Hosting Requirements: More expensive hosting needed
- Advantage: Modern user experience, fast loading speeds
PHP/Laravel Custom Applications:
- Development Costs: ₱150,000-₱600,000+
- Maintenance Complexity: Higher technical requirements
- Advantage: Scalability, custom business logic implementation
Conclusion
Website costs in the Philippines vary dramatically based on your specific needs, chosen development approach, and long-term goals. From basic static websites starting at ₱15,000 to complex custom applications exceeding ₱500,000, understanding these cost factors enables informed decision-making for your digital investment.
Key Takeaways for Budget Planning:
For Small Businesses: Static websites or basic WordPress solutions (₱20,000-₱60,000) provide excellent value for establishing online credibility and basic functionality. Focus on mobile responsiveness and local SEO optimization.
For Growing Companies: WordPress or website builder solutions (₱40,000-₱120,000) offer scalability and feature expansion capabilities. Invest in professional design and comprehensive content management systems.
For E-commerce Ventures: WooCommerce or Shopify solutions (₱80,000-₱250,000) balance functionality with cost-effectiveness. Plan for ongoing marketing and optimization investments beyond initial development.
For Enterprise Applications: Custom development (₱200,000-₱1,000,000+) provides complete control and unique functionality. Ensure adequate budget for ongoing maintenance and security updates.
Strategic Recommendations:
Compare Multiple Providers: Request detailed quotes from both freelancers and agencies, comparing not just initial costs but ongoing support, timeline commitments, and included services.
Plan for Ongoing Costs: Budget for annual expenses including hosting, domains, SSL certificates, backups, and maintenance. These ongoing costs often exceed initial development investments over time.
Prioritize Mobile Optimization: With over 70% of Philippine internet users accessing websites via mobile devices, ensure your chosen solution provides excellent mobile experience.
Consider Growth Requirements: Choose platforms and development approaches that can scale with your business growth, avoiding costly migrations or rebuilds within 2-3 years.
Invest in Professional Content: High-quality copywriting, photography, and design significantly impact website effectiveness regardless of technical platform chosen.
The Philippine web development market offers excellent value across all budget ranges. Whether working with experienced Metro Manila agencies, talented provincial developers, or skilled freelancers, focus on clear communication, defined project scope, and realistic timeline expectations to ensure successful project outcomes.
Remember that your website represents a long-term business investment rather than a one-time expense. Quality development, ongoing maintenance, and strategic optimization contribute to sustainable online success and positive return on investment for years to come.
