How much should I charge for freelance web design?
I'm a new freelance web designer. I built a site for a friend's small business and now another business wants me to build them a 5-page site. I have no idea what to charge. I'm scared to ask too much but I don't want to work for $10/hr. What's a fair price?
1 Answer(s)
This is the hardest part of starting out. Here's the honest answer. Most new freelancers undercharge because they're scared. For a 5-page business website, you should charge $500-$1,500 depending on complexity and your location. Yes, really. Not $100.
Here's a simple pricing framework. Package 1: Basic 3-page site ($500-$700). Package 2: 5-page site with contact form and basic SEO ($1,000-$1,500). Package 3: 7-page site with e-commerce or booking ($1,500-$2,500).
Always get 50% upfront. Always use a contract. Never work without a deposit. And don't charge by the hour — charge by value. The client isn't paying for your time, they're paying for the result.
If the small business has a budget under $500, politely refer them to Wix or Squarespace. Those clients will drain your soul. You're not a charity. Charge what you're worth.