Beyond “Free”: Unpacking the Real (and Surprisingly Variable) Cost of Your WordPress Dream Website
“WordPress is free!” It’s a siren song that captures the imagination of anyone dreaming of creating a website. Indeed, WordPress itself is an open-source content management system, available to download and use at no cost. This accessibility has made it the backbone of over 40% of all websites on the internet, powering blogs, business sites, online stores, and more.
But while the core software is free, building your perfect WordPress site involves more than just installing a program. You will need a domain name—your site’s address on the web—and reliable hosting to keep your site live 24/7. These essentials come at varying prices depending on the provider and the level of service you select.
Furthermore, to personalise and enhance your site, you might consider premium themes or plugins which unlock additional features, customisation options, and improved functionality. Hiring professional help for custom design or development work is another factor that can add to your budget.
Understanding these layers of cost is key to turning that enticing “free” offer into a realistic plan for your dream website. While WordPress eliminates the hefty software licence fees, the total investment varies widely depending on your ambitions, technical skills, and the online experience you aim to deliver.
In short, WordPress opens the door to web creation for everyone, but it’s important to look beyond “free” to build a site that truly meets your needs.
Source: Beyond “Free”: Unpacking the Real (and Surprisingly Variable) Cost of Your WordPress Dream Website
Author: Lifehack
