Comparison
Wix or Squarespace vs Paying Someone: What's Right for Your Business?
By Opside Technology · Updated
How much do Wix and Squarespace cost?
Wix and Squarespace both bill in US dollars. Business-level plans that remove ads and allow a custom domain typically cost about US$17–$40 a month on annual billing, with higher-tier and e-commerce plans costing more. Prices change regularly, so check their official pricing pages.
What are the real costs of building it yourself?
The biggest cost is your time. A first small business site commonly takes 20–40 hours to plan, write, design and set up properly, and then needs ongoing updates. Add paid apps, email accounts and a domain, and the monthly cost climbs above the headline plan price.
| DIY builder | Freelancer or agency | Subscription (Opside) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | $0 | $1,500–$15,000 + GST | $0 |
| Monthly cost | ~US$17–$40 + apps | Hosting and care, often $25–$120+ | $99–$299 NZD |
| Your time to build | 20–40+ hours | A few hours of input | About 15 minutes of input |
| Copywriting | You | Sometimes extra | Included free |
| Changes after launch | You | Usually billed | Included |
| SEO setup | You | Varies | Included |
When should a small business use Wix or Squarespace?
DIY is the right call if you enjoy it, have the time, have a good eye for layout and writing, and your business is simple enough for a template. It's also a sensible way to test an idea before spending more. Many people build a DIY site first and hand it over once the business grows.
When is it worth paying someone?
It's worth paying someone when your time is better spent earning, when you need the site to rank on Google and bring in enquiries, or when a home-made look would undercut how good your work is. For tradies, an hour on the tools usually earns more than an hour fighting a website builder.
Common questions
Is Wix good for SEO?
Wix and Squarespace can both rank fine. The results depend far more on what you put on the site, such as clear services, location information and good content, and on your Google Business Profile and reviews, than on the platform.
Can I move from Wix to a custom site later?
Yes. Your text and images can be moved, and your domain can be pointed to the new site. Keep your domain registered in your own name so moving is easy.
Sources
Keep reading
Ready for a website that brings in work?
From $99 NZD a month. First draft in 48–72 hours. No build fee. No setup cost. Cancel anytime.
Get my site started