Custom Website vs Template: Which One is Right for Your Business?
Compare custom-built websites with template solutions like WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace. Real cost analysis, pros and cons, and decision framework.
The Two Paths
When you need a website, you have two main options: use a template-based platform (WordPress, Wix, Squarespace) or hire a developer to build a custom site. Both can produce a functional website, but they differ significantly in cost, quality, performance, and long-term value.
Template Websites (WordPress, Wix, Squarespace)
Pros
- Low upfront cost ($0 to $30/month for the platform)
- Quick setup (can launch in a day)
- No coding knowledge required
- Thousands of pre-made designs to choose from
- Built-in hosting and maintenance
Cons
- Generic design that looks like thousands of other sites
- Slow load speeds (especially WordPress with plugins)
- Limited SEO control and customization
- Monthly fees add up over time ($360+/year for Squarespace)
- You do not own the code; you are renting the platform
- Security vulnerabilities (WordPress is the #1 hacked CMS)
- Plugin conflicts and maintenance headaches
Custom Websites (React, Next.js)
Pros
- Unique design that stands out from competitors
- Blazing fast load speeds (90+ PageSpeed scores)
- Full SEO control and optimization
- You own 100% of the code
- No monthly platform fees (free hosting on Vercel)
- Better security (no plugin vulnerabilities)
- Scales easily as your business grows
Cons
- Higher upfront cost ($500 to $10,000+)
- Takes 2 to 8 weeks to build
- Requires a developer for changes (unless CMS is added)
- Need to find a reliable developer
Cost Comparison Over 3 Years
| Cost Item | Template (Squarespace) | Custom (Next.js) |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 setup | $200 (annual plan) | $1,500 (development) |
| Year 1 hosting | Included | $0 (Vercel free) |
| Year 1 domain | $20 | $12 |
| Year 2 total | $220 | $12 |
| Year 3 total | $220 | $12 |
| 3-year total | $660 | $1,524 |
| Maintenance/fixes | Limited support | $0-100/month optional |
| Performance | Moderate | Excellent |
| SEO ranking ability | Limited | Full control |
The custom site costs more upfront but the yearly costs are near zero. By year 4, the custom site becomes cheaper than the template. And the performance and SEO advantages start paying dividends from day one.
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