Creating a website in Hong Kong in 2025 has become an essential step for businesses looking to establish a strong online presence.
With the increasing importance of e-commerce, understanding the costs associated with website development is crucial for any business aiming to compete in the digital marketplace.
In this article, we will explore the various factors that influence website development costs, including the type of website, the complexity of design and functionality, and the choice between DIY solutions and professional services. It will also address ongoing expenses such as hosting, maintenance, and additional features that may be required as the website grows. By understanding these elements, businesses can better plan and allocate their resources effectively.
Whether you are looking to create a simple informational site or a complex e-commerce platform, this comprehensive guide will serve as a roadmap to navigating the website development landscape of Hong Kong.
Let’s delve in, shall we?
How much does it cost to build a website?
Building a website in Hong Kong involves various costs depending on the complexity and features required.
A basic website for a small business can cost between HKD 3,000 and HKD 18,000 per year. If you need a semi-professional website with custom domains and additional features, the cost can range from HKD 6,000 to HKD 90,000.
Looking to get your website online fast? Why not try start building your website for free with GoDaddy’s Website Builder?
For more advanced needs, a professional website might cost between HKD 13,200 and HKD 180,000 per engagement, with annual maintenance fees of HKD 12,000 to HKD 30,000.
Large corporations and those requiring highly customised features can expect to pay between HKD 300,000 and HKD 600,000 or more. Additional costs include domain registration (HKD 180 – HKD 1,200 per year), hosting (HKD 1,200 – HKD 17,400 per year), content management systems (HKD 0 – HKD 360,000+), SEO services (HKD 4,200 – HKD 30,000 per month), and ongoing maintenance should you choose to hire someone for this service (HKD 300 – HKD 3,000+ per month).
The basic building blocks of your website and their price
Each website is built from five essential parts: domains, hosting, content, website security, and marketing. The following table provides a rough pricing guide for each component.
Website building blocks and their cost
| Website feature | Cost upfront (HKD) |
| Domain name | Starting from around HKD 235 per year |
| Web hosting | HKD 220 to HKD 930 per month |
| Content | HKD 3,800 to HKD 40,000 |
| Website security | HKD 1,560 to HKD 11,700 per year |
| SEO and marketing | HKD 11,700 to HKD 390,000+ |
Domain name
Buying the right domain name is vital because it will become an important part of your business’s identity.
The cost of your domain name will depend on the domain extension you choose (such as .com, .info, etc.), but you can expect to pay around HKD235 per year for your domain.
There are special offers that can reduce the cost, and some domain extensions may be more expensive. For instance, an .ai domain can be pricier than more generic extensions because it is often used for AI projects, making it highly sought after and more costly.
Related: How to choose your perfect domain name.
Web hosting
You’ll need web hosting to store the various files that make up your website on a web server.
Getting web hosting for your site is the first step to establishing an online presence in Hong Kong.
Web hosting involves paying a company like GoDaddy to host your website on their servers. The cost of hosting can vary significantly.
At GoDaddy, the costs range from HKD 20 to HKD 90 per month for shared hosting and HKD 390 to HKD 3,900 per month for dedicated hosting.
Special offers can reduce the setup costs for your site. Web hosting prices vary widely due to the different types of packages available, and the package you need will depend on your business requirements. We'll discuss this in more detail later.
Content writing services
The type of content required for your website depends on your business and its functionality.
For straightforward websites, you might be able to create all the content on your own. However, more complex sites may necessitate hiring a professional to write the copy and possibly create images and videos.
It's prudent to plan your website's content before choosing the type of site you want to develop. Understanding your content needs will help you select the best option for your business.
In Hong Kong, copywriting services generally cost between HKD 3,800 and HKD 12,000 per page, based on the complexity and requirements. Additionally, comprehensive content creation, which includes graphic design and multimedia, can range from HKD 3,800 to HKD 40,000.
Related: How to write website copy
Website security
Website security is crucial to keep your site safe. You will likely want to use an SSL certificate on your site, which typically costs between HKD 235 and HKD 930 per year.
Furthermore, you might consider investing in extra website security software. Basic security packages, which include daily scanning, firewall protection, and site monitoring, typically cost about HKD 1,410 per year.
More advanced solutions, offering features such as malware scanning and annual site clean-up, can range from HKD 456 to HKD 1,800 per year, depending on the level of protection and features needed.
SEO and Marketing
When establishing your website in Hong Kong, you may encounter initial expenses related to search engine optimisation (SEO) and marketing, especially if you engage a web designer. The cost of SEO services in Hong Kong varies greatly based on the scope and depth of the services needed.
GoDaddy’s Digital Marketing Suite is an integrated marketing service that helps you take care of multiple aspects of marketing like SEO.
Typically, local SEO campaigns start at about HKD 5,000 per month. More extensive SEO packages can range from HKD 10,000 to HKD 30,000 per month for ongoing services. One-time SEO audits usually start from HKD 5,000. High-end SEO services aimed at extensive campaigns or highly competitive keywords can cost up to HKD 390,000 annually.
Other costs to consider when running a website
The type of website you run can incur additional costs, such as:
- Plugins and Extensions: To enhance your website's functionality, you might need to buy premium plugins or extensions that are not available for free. While WordPress as a CMS offers many free plugins, some advanced features may require a purchase.
- Email Hosting: To create a professional email address that aligns with your domain name (e.g., info@yourbusiness.com), you will likely need to invest in email hosting services.
- Analytics Software: To monitor your website's performance and user behaviour, you might invest in advanced analytics tools beyond the free options.
- Legal: Depending on your business and website, you may need to cover costs related to copyright, compliance, or consultation with a legal expert, especially for privacy policies, terms of service, and GDPR compliance.
Website design costs
Website design pricing at a glance: Web Designer vs Website Builder vs WordPress
| Feature | With a Web Designer | With GoDaddy's Website Builder (Basic) | With WordPress |
| Design | HKD 7,385 | n/a | n/a |
| Website Builder Annual Cost | n/a | HKD 5,000 | n/a |
| Web Hosting | HKD 5,545 | included | HKD 5,000 |
| Domain Name | HKD 737 | HKD 737 | HKD 737 |
| SSL Certificate | HKD 2,574 | included | HKD 2,574 |
| Maintenance | HKD 7,385 | n/a | n/a |
| Cost in First Year | HKD 23,626 | HKD 5,737 | HKD 8,311 |
| Ongoing Annual Cost | HKD 16,241 | HKD 5,737 | HKD 8,311 |
Choosing between a web designer, a website builder, and WordPress involves considering various factors. A website builder is generally more cost-effective, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious users. Conversely, hiring a web designer can offer a unique, custom look for your website.
WordPress presents a flexible DIY solution, packed with features that often surpass those of website builders. For those planning to launch an e-commerce site, each option should be evaluated based on your specific needs and financial constraints.
Related: How to set up an e-commerce website with WordPress + WooCommerce
How much does it cost to have a website built for you in Hong Kong?
The cost of having a website built in Hong Kong can vary greatly, depending on the complexity of the site and the expertise of the designer.
Web designers are capable of creating websites with various functionalities and sizes, but their expertise comes at a premium. For simpler brochure-type sites, hiring a web designer might not be the most economical choice, as you will need to cover the design fee, along with ongoing expenses for web hosting and maintenance.
Web designers and agencies excel when developing more complex websites, such as large e-commerce platforms or custom projects. Generally, choosing a web designer is more expensive than using a website builder. It's advisable to get multiple quotes before making a decision, and be cautious of very low prices, as they might reflect lower quality.
How much does it cost to make a website with a Website Builder?
Website builders are an ideal choice for those on a limited budget who still want full control over their site. Starting at HKD49 per month, they offer a cost-effective solution.
GoDaddy’s Website Builder includes a beginner-friendly drag-and-drop UI. You don’t need to pay for a designer
Technological advancements have made website builders suitable for nearly all website types, except the very largest. If you’re looking to create a basic website, a hospitality site, or even a small e-commerce platform, a website builder is a great option.
For instance, GoDaddy’s Website Builder starts at HKD49 per month, including web hosting, making it a highly affordable choice. An added benefit is that you won't need to rely on a web designer for updates or changes to your site. Moreover, these tools often come with a variety of online marketing features to help you promote your website effectively.
Related: Follow these steps to make a free website
How much does a WordPress website cost?
For those seeking more control over their website, WordPress hosting is a superb choice, starting at approximately HKD49 per month. WordPress is renowned for its powerful, flexible, and user-friendly platform, ideal for both businesses and individuals. It offers a wide range of customisation options, enabling users to create unique and highly functional sites.
One significant advantage of WordPress is its accessibility for beginners, as it does not require coding knowledge. It supports a multitude of extensions and plugins, allowing for advanced customisations if needed. The extensive WordPress community provides numerous themes and plugins, available in both free and premium versions, which can significantly enhance your website's functionality and aesthetics.
Moreover, WordPress is scalable, meaning your website can grow alongside your business or personal project without any issues.
Website costs by business type
The cost of a website is largely determined by the required functionality. Factors include e-commerce capabilities, the number of pages, and the types of content used, such as videos, podcasts, and image galleries.
Refer to the table below for a general pricing overview based on business type.
| Business Type | With a Web Designer (HKD) | With GoDaddy's Website Builder (HKD) | With WordPress (HKD) |
| Small business website | 23,520 - 39,200 | 5,310 | 5,310 |
| Small to medium e-commerce site | 188,700 - 282,485 | 11,084 | 7,530 |
| Large-scale e-commerce site | 377,400 - 564,970 | 13,298 | 13,298 |
| Large bespoke business site | 565,000 - 847,500 | 13,298 | 13,298 |
Small business website cost
Small businesses in Malaysia can expect to pay between RM680 and RM3,020 annually to create and maintain a website. These businesses typically do not require a site with hundreds of pages.
A few core pages with information about your services, your background, customer testimonials, and contact details will suffice. You may also want to include a few additional features, such as a blog or links to your social media accounts, but nothing too elaborate.
This type of small business website is well-suited for tradesmen, freelancers, and other professionals who aim to generate leads from their site rather than attract walk-in customers.
A small business website is also ideal for those running a café, restaurant, bar, or similar business. Unlike service-based businesses, these establishments have different priorities, such as informing customers about their offerings and locations.
Including features like a menu page, photos, customer comments and reviews, a map with directions, and a contact or booking form will be your top priorities. Additionally, you might want a blog or news section to keep your customers updated about events and special offers.
Small to medium e-commerce site cost
The average cost to build a small to medium e-commerce website ranges between RM1,080 and RM23,500 if you want to have a website built for you. It’s definitely going to be more expensive than a regular site given the types of content modules unique to e-commerce sites that have to be designed and created.
For instance, homepages of e-commerce sites tend to not only have written content but also banner modules and product listings. Designers will need to consider the aesthetics of these as well on top of where to place standard written content.
This is an important consideration if you have an existing real-world business that sells products and you’re looking to branch out online, or if you’re setting up a dedicated e-commerce business.
Either way, the main focus of your website will be on the products you sell. You’ll also need supporting content, such as contact details, a returns policy, a blog, support pages, and anything else that fits with your business. If you’re also running a physical business, you’ll want to include a map and directions too.
Related: Biggest e-commerce challenges in Asia
Large-scale e-commerce site cost
For those planning to establish a major online platform, a tailored, extensive website is necessary, and the associated costs will be substantial. In the first year, anticipate spending over HKD 70,000 for a large, custom-built website.
You will likely need to hire a web designer, and potentially employ multiple designers on a full-time basis.
Pricing Notes: The cost estimates for web designers can vary greatly, so it's wise to compare multiple options. Similarly, prices for web hosting, SSL certificates, and domain names are approximate and may not include special offers available at the time of purchase.
Prices for website builders and WordPress hosting mentioned here are current but may also be subject to discounts. The total cost of building your website includes the design fee (if applicable), one year of hosting, an SSL certificate, and domain name registration.
Cost of Large Bespoke Business Websites
If you're aiming to create the next major online platform, a comprehensive and custom-built website is essential, and the associated costs will be substantial. For a large, bespoke website, anticipate spending over HKD 700,000 in the first year.
Hiring a web designer is inevitable, and you might even need to employ multiple designers on a full-time basis.
See how you can get a free domain with GoDaddy’s Website Builder plans.
Pricing Notes: The costs for web designers can vary significantly, so it's wise to compare different options. Similarly, the prices for web hosting, SSL certificates, and domain names are approximate and may not include special offers available at the time.
Prices for website builders and WordPress hosting are accurate at the time of writing but may be subject to discounts. The total cost of building your website includes the design fee (if applicable), one year of hosting, an SSL certificate, and domain name registration.
So, how much does creating and owning a website cost in Hong Kong?
Developing a website in Hong Kong doesn't have to be overly costly or complex. Thanks to modern website builders, even small business owners can easily create and manage their websites. These tools are both user-friendly and affordable, catering to various needs, from basic informational sites to small e-commerce platforms.
It's essential to note that adding additional functionalities, such as advanced e-commerce features, custom design elements, or interactive content, will typically increase your overall expenses. Whether you choose a DIY approach using a website builder or hire a professional web designer, understanding and planning for these costs will help you get the most value from your investment.
Interested in creating your own business website? Consider using GoDaddy’s Website Builder for an easy and cost-effective solution.
Pricing is correct at the time of publishing and does not include any special promotions or discounts. Be sure to check current prices.
FAQ about website costs in Hong Kong
1) What are the initial steps to start a website in Hong Kong?
The initial steps to start a website in Hong Kong include choosing a domain name, registering it, and selecting a hosting provider. You'll also need to decide on the type of website you want, such as an e-commerce site, a blog, or a corporate site. Additionally, you should consider the website's design and functionality requirements before hiring a web developer or using a website builder.
2) What are some common pitfalls to avoid when developing a website in Hong Kong?
Common pitfalls include underestimating the importance of a clear project scope, neglecting SEO best practices, ignoring mobile responsiveness, and overlooking the need for regular updates and maintenance. Additionally, failing to allocate sufficient budget for quality hosting and security features can lead to poor website performance and vulnerability to cyberattacks.
3) What should I consider before investing in a new website in Hong Kong?
Before investing in a new website, consider your business goals, target audience, budget, and the type of website you need (e.g., e-commerce, informational, etc.). It's also important to choose a reliable web development agency, ensure mobile responsiveness, and plan for ongoing maintenance and updates to keep the website functional and secure
4) What are the benefits of starting an e-commerce website in Hong Kong?
When choosing a web hosting provider for your website in Hong Kong, consider factors such as server location, uptime guarantees, customer support, pricing, and the types of hosting plans offered. It is also important to choose a provider that offers scalable solutions to accommodate your website's growth.
5) Do I need a physical office to start a website in Hong Kong?
While you do not necessarily need a physical office to start a website, you do need a registered address in Hong Kong for business registration purposes. If you do not have a physical office, you can use a virtual office or a registered address service provided by various companies.
