How much does a website redesign cost in 2026? A focused refresh for a small business typically costs $500 to $3,000, while a full custom rebuild runs $3,000 to $10,000 or more. The gap comes down to how much you are changing - new paint versus new foundation - and how much custom design and functionality you need.
Here is how to tell which one you need and what you will pay.
Refresh vs full rebuild
- Refresh ($500-3,000): new look, updated copy and images, mobile and speed fixes, kept on the same platform. Right when your site works but looks dated.
- Full rebuild ($3,000-10,000+): new structure, new design, often a new platform, new features. Right when the site is slow, hard to edit, or no longer fits the business.
If your current site is slow or built on a fragile stack, a rebuild on a modern foundation often costs less to run afterwards - see WordPress vs custom.
What drives redesign cost
| Factor | Lower cost | Higher cost |
|---|---|---|
| Number of pages | 1-5 | 15+ |
| Design | Template-based | Fully custom |
| Content | You provide it | They write it |
| Features | Brochure site | Booking, e-commerce, logins |
| Platform | Keep current | Migrate to new |
Signs you actually need a redesign
- It looks dated or untrustworthy next to competitors.
- It is slow or fails on mobile (most visitors are on phones).
- You cannot easily edit it yourself.
- It does not bring in leads - a common, fixable problem covered in why your site is not making money.
- Your branding or services have changed.
How to keep a redesign affordable
- Start with a refresh if the bones are fine - do not pay for a rebuild you do not need.
- Provide your own content to cut cost.
- Scope tightly: launch a strong core site, expand later. The cheapest path is rarely the cheapest tool - it is the right-sized build done once.
- Get flat pricing in writing, per how to choose a web design company.
How long it takes
A refresh is usually 1-2 weeks; a full rebuild 4-8 weeks, depending on content and feedback speed. See how long it takes to build a website.
FAQ
How much does it cost to redesign a website? A small business refresh typically costs $500-3,000, and a full custom rebuild $3,000-10,000 or more. The price depends on page count, custom design, content, and new features.
Is a redesign cheaper than a new website? A refresh that keeps your platform and structure is cheaper than a full rebuild. But if your site is slow or built on a fragile platform, a rebuild can cost less to maintain over time.
How often should you redesign your website? Most small businesses refresh every 2-4 years and do a full rebuild every 4-6 years, or sooner if the site is slow, hard to edit, or no longer reflects the business.
Will a redesign improve my Google ranking? It can, if it improves speed, mobile experience, and structure - all ranking factors. A redesign that ignores performance and SEO may not help, so confirm those are included.