Wix vs WordPress Pricing: A Complete Breakdown 2025

Choosing between Wix and WordPress as your website platform often hinges on cost, particularly when you factor in long-term expenses. Each service comes with distinct pricing models, complete with features and restrictions that affect your overall spend. To choose the right solution for your budget and requirements, it’s crucial to understand all charges—both obvious and hidden. Here, we present a comprehensive analysis of Wix and WordPress pricing structures, covering different plans, applications, and durations. By comparing what each option delivers, our goal is to guide you toward an informed and financially prudent decision for your site.

Understanding Wix Pricing

Classic Editor

The Classic Editor is tailored to small and medium-sized websites—portfolios, corporate pages or personal blogs—where ease of use and predictable costs are paramount. Plans range from $16 per month (Combo) to $45 per month (VIP), and include hosting, a free custom domain for the first year, SSL security and automated platform updates. You also receive built-in SEO tools and, on business plans, basic e-commerce functionality without installing or configuring extra apps. For most small businesses and individuals, Classic offers a true all-in-one solution with no hidden maintenance fees. It’s the simplest way to launch a professional site quickly and keep ongoing costs transparent.

Wix Classic Editor Pricing Plans (2025)

As of 2025, Wix offers the following premium plans:

• Light Plan: $17/month (billed annually)

  • Includes 2GB storage, custom domain connection, removal of Wix ads, and basic customer support.

• Core Plan: $29/month (billed annually)

  • Offers 50GB storage, e-commerce capabilities, basic analytics, and abandoned cart recovery.

• Business Plan: $36/month (billed annually)

  • Provides 100GB storage, advanced e-commerce tools, and advanced shipping options.

• Business Elite Plan: $159/month (billed annually)

  • Features unlimited storage, advanced analytics, priority support, and loyalty programs.

Key Features Across Plans

• Custom Domain: Connect your own domain to establish brand identity.

• Wix Branding Removal: Eliminate Wix ads for a more professional appearance.

• Storage Space: Ranging from 2GB to unlimited, depending on the plan.

• E-commerce Capabilities: Available from the Core Plan upwards, allowing online sales and payment processing.

• Analytics and SEO Tools: Track website performance and optimize for search engines.

• Customer Support: Priority support available in higher-tier plans.

Wix Studio

Wix Studio addresses the needs of agencies and collaborative teams that require advanced workflows, asset management and integration capabilities. Starting at around $200 per month—scaled to the number of users and project volume—Studio includes everything in Classic, plus real-time team collaboration, granular role permissions, a centralised asset library and premium template access. You gain extended analytics dashboards, API availability for custom CRM or BI integrations, and 24/7 priority support via phone and chat. Enterprise-grade security and uptime guarantees come as standard. For larger or more complex projects, Studio delivers a managed environment built to scale.

Wix Studio Pricing Plans

Wix Studio offers four primary premium plans, with pricing varying by region. Here's an overview:

• Basic: Approximately $19/month

• Standard: Approximately $27/month

• Plus: Approximately $34/month

• Elite: Approximately $159/month

Key Features Across Plans

• Custom Domain: Connect your own domain to establish brand identity.

• Wix Branding Removal: Eliminate Wix ads for a more professional appearance.

• Collaborators: Invite team members to work on your site, with the number of collaborators increasing with higher-tier plans.

• Storage Space: Ranging from 50 GB to unlimited, depending on the plan.

• Marketing Suite: Access tools for email marketing, SEO, and analytics.

• CMS Items: Manage up to 500,000 content items, facilitating dynamic content management.

Enterprise Solutions

For large-scale businesses, Wix Studio offers enterprise solutions with:

• Unlimited Collaborators: Facilitate extensive team collaboration.

• Custom CMS Quotas: Tailored content management capacities.

• Multi-Site Management: Oversee multiple websites from a centralized dashboard.

• Dedicated Account Manager: Receive personalized support and guidance.

What’s Included “Out of the Box” in Wix vs WordPress

Hosting & CDN

• Wix: Unlimited hosting and global CDN in every paid plan.

• WordPress.org: Requires separate hosting (shared, VPS or managed) and optional CDN subscription.

• Custom Domain

  • Wix: Free first year; renews at ≈$15/year.

  • WordPress.org: Purchased from a registrar ($10–$15/year) with no built-in free period.

• SSL Certificate

  • Wix: Included at no extra cost.

  • WordPress.org: Depends on your host—sometimes free, sometimes an additional fee.

• Platform Updates & Security

  • Wix: Fully managed core updates, daily backups, built-in firewall and DDoS protection.

  • WordPress.org: You must handle updates yourself or via paid services; security requires plugins and manual configuration.

• Apps & Plugins

  • Wix: Official App Market offers free and premium apps, all seamlessly integrated.

  • WordPress.org: Tens of thousands of free plugins; premium plugins often cost $30–$100+ per year.

• Support

  • Wix Classic: Email support and community forum.

  • Wix Studio: 24/7 priority support via phone and live chat.

  • WordPress.org: Community-based support only, unless you pay for managed hosting or external plans.

• Professional Email

  • Wix: Google Workspace from $6–$18/user per month.

  • WordPress.org: Same Google Workspace pricing plus SMTP configuration.

• SEO Tools

  • Wix: Built-in meta management, sitemap generation and performance optimisation.

  • WordPress.org: Relies on SEO plugins (Yoast SEO, AIO SEO) which may be free or premium.

Wix vs Self-Hosted WordPress

Feature	Wix (Classic & Studio)	WordPress.org (Self-hosted)
Hosting & CDN	Unlimited hosting + CDN in all paid plans	Separate: $3–$150/month (shared/VPS/managed)
Custom Domain	Free year 1, then ≈$15/year	Registrar: $10–$15/year
SSL (HTTPS)	Included	Depends on host; sometimes free, sometimes $0–$50/year
Core & Plugin Updates	Automatic	Manual or via paid tools
Security & Backups	Built-in firewall, DDoS protection, daily backups	Requires plugins ($0–$200/year) + manual setup
Apps/ Plugins	Wix App Market (free & premium)	100,000+ plugins; many premium at $30–$100+/year
Support	Classic: email/forum; Studio: 24/7 chat/phone	Community forums or paid support ($30–$100+/month)
Professional Email	$6–$18/user per month	Same + SMTP configuration
SEO Tools	Built-in	SEO plugins (free/premium)
Starting Price	Classic: $16/month; Studio: from €200/month	Hosting from $3/month + domain + plugins + support

Hidden Costs of Using Wix (Apps, Domains, Email)

• Domains are complimentary in year one, with renewal fees of around $15 annually.

• Professional email through Google Workspace carries a cost of $6 to $18 per user each month.

• Several extensions in the Wix App Market require premium subscriptions, ranging from $5 to $30 per month.

• Specialised functions like booking systems or multilingual capabilities frequently depend on extra paid apps.

• Overall monthly expenses can increase substantially when adding bespoke features.

Although Wix’s price tags seem clear, additional charges can quickly accumulate. After the initial free domain period, renewal costs typically hover around $15 per year. For email services, Google Workspace subscriptions can add between $6 and $18 per user each month. Furthermore, many useful apps in the Wix marketplace come with their own fees, often in the $5 to $30 range monthly. These extras can push a simple setup into a far more costly venture.

Breaking Down WordPress Costs

WordPress.org vs WordPress.com

• WordPress.org: An open-source solution offering full customisation yet demanding independent hosting and upkeep.

• WordPress.com: A hosted platform with an easy setup and freemium plans, though lower tiers restrict adaptability.

• The .org variant suits developers and organisations seeking scalability, whereas .com is better for non-technical users.

• .com plans span from free to approximately $45 monthly, contingent on included services.

• .org enables unrestricted code editing and plugin integration, capabilities that .com curtails on most tiers.

WordPress provides two primary deployment options, each with distinct pros and cons. The self-hosted WordPress.org software is available at no cost but necessitates separate hosting, domain management, and maintenance responsibilities. Conversely, WordPress.com handles infrastructure and updates, simplifying the process at the expense of some control. While WordPress.com is user-friendly for beginners, its lower plans limit customisation and plugin usage. Developers and growing businesses often prefer WordPress.org for its unrestricted flexibility and scalability.

Hosting Costs (Shared, VPS, Managed)

• Shared Hosting: Ranges from $3 to $10 per month, ideal for small or low-traffic websites.

• VPS Hosting: Costs between $20 and $80 monthly, providing enhanced resources and administrative control.

• Managed WordPress Hosting: Starts at around $25 and can exceed $150 per month, bundling maintenance, backups, and security.

• Pricing differs across providers such as Bluehost, SiteGround, or Kinsta.

• Although managed services ease the upkeep burden, they often carry higher ongoing fees.

The expense of hosting a WordPress site fluctuates based on the chosen service tier. Shared hosting is the most cost-effective, with prices typically between $3 and $10 per month, which works well for smaller or newer sites. For those needing more horsepower, VPS hosting grants dedicated resources and admin-level access at $20 to $80 each month. Managed WordPress hosting packages, which include automated updates, backups, and security patches, range from about $25 to over $150 monthly. Businesses should weigh their traffic projections and technical capacity when selecting a hosting plan.

Domain Registration Fees

• Domains generally run from $10 to $15 per year, with renewal rates often exceeding introductory offers.

• Registrars such as Namecheap, GoDaddy, and Google Domains have differing support levels and fee structures.

• Many hosting deals include a complimentary domain registration for the first year.

• Be mindful of automatic renewals and top-level domain pricing variations (such as .com versus .store).

• Additional WHOIS privacy protection can incur extra charges, typically $2 to $10 annually if not already covered.

Securing a domain name involves more than the initial purchase price, which usually falls between $10 and $15 per year. After promotional periods expire, renewal costs can jump, so planning for long-term expenditures is crucial. Many hosting plans attach a free domain for the first year, but users should scrutinise the renewal terms. It’s important to monitor auto-renewal settings and compare TLD fees to avoid unexpected bills. Adding privacy protection for WHOIS records may add another $2 to $10 annually unless the registrar provides it at no charge.

Themes and Plugin Expenses

• Free themes and plugins exist, yet premium versions can set you back $30 to over $100 apiece.

• Extensions covering SEO, security, caching, or form building frequently carry yearly subscription costs.

• Certain solutions adopt subscription models, like Elementor Pro or WP Rocket.

• The cumulative expense can rise significantly as additional features become necessary.

• One must balance deploying numerous free add-ons against investing in a handful of premium tools.

WordPress’s expansive ecosystem includes countless free themes and plugins, making it easy to start without upfront costs. However, premium themes often come with price tags between $30 and $100, and advanced plugins may require annual fees. Tools designed for SEO optimisation, security hardening, or performance improvements can quickly add to your budget. While the modular approach allows flexibility in feature selection, adding too many paid components can inflate ongoing expenses. Planning which features are essential helps strike a balance between free and paid solutions.

Developer or Maintenance Costs

• Hiring professional developers can cost anywhere from $30 to $150 per hour based on project complexity.

• Routine maintenance such as backups, updates, and security monitoring may involve additional tools or service fees.

• Non-technical users frequently opt for managed care plans, which can range from $30 to $100 monthly.

• Do-it-yourself site owners save on fees but must allocate time to handle upkeep and resolve issues.

• Unexpected or critical problems can necessitate urgent developer intervention, leading to extra charges.

Keeping a WordPress site running smoothly often entails ongoing technical work or hiring external help. Developer rates vary widely, with simpler tasks billed around $30 per hour and complex projects exceeding $150. For those without coding skills, monthly maintenance plans priced between $30 and $100 offer peace of mind but add to recurring costs. DIY enthusiasts may avoid these fees but need to dedicate considerable time to manage updates and troubleshoot problems. In urgent situations, emergency development work can result in significant unplanned expenses.

Wix vs WordPress: Comparing Cost by Use Case

For Bloggers

Wix appeals to bloggers who value a straightforward, click-and-go platform with minimal technical hurdles. Its intuitive editor and integrated blog features allow quick publication without a steep learning curve. In contrast, WordPress, particularly the self-hosted version, enables deep customisation, advanced SEO optimisations, and diverse monetisation options. Yet, these benefits come with more complex setup and potentially higher maintenance expenses. Hobbyist writers or those wanting simple content delivery may choose Wix, while professional bloggers seeking growth and control often lean towards WordPress.

For Small Businesses

For small enterprises, Wix provides an all-inclusive solution that bundles hosting, design templates, and support into one subscription. This simplicity means business owners can launch and manage their online presence without external developers. However, WordPress offers greater adaptability, making it easier to scale features, integrate third-party services, and customise workflows. The trade-off is that WordPress usually involves more time or outsourcing effort to maintain. Companies must weigh the convenience of a unified platform against the long-term flexibility that WordPress delivers.

For eCommerce Stores

Wix’s eCommerce subscriptions deliver built-in storefront capabilities, secure checkout processes, and marketing features out of the box. It’s well-suited for small to medium retailers seeking predictable costs and minimal setup. With WooCommerce on WordPress, merchants gain unparalleled control over product offerings, multi-store setups, and international shipping options. Yet, configuring and maintaining a WooCommerce shop often entails a larger initial investment and technical know-how. The best choice depends on store size, desired customisation, and the team’s technical capacity.

For Agencies or Developers

Agencies and professional developers often favour WordPress for its open-source nature and extensive plugin architecture. The platform’s flexibility allows for custom-built themes, bespoke integrations, and full code ownership. Nevertheless, Wix offers agencies a rapid deployment workflow, with consolidated management tools and fewer compatibility concerns. For clients with straightforward requirements, this can result in faster turnaround and lower project overhead. Ultimately, teams focused on complex, custom solutions may choose WordPress, while those prioritising speed and simplicity might stick with Wix.

Long-Term Cost Analysis

Initial Costs

• Wix: A single subscription fee covers hosting, support, custom domain, and platform tools.

• WordPress: Upfront costs cover hosting fees, domain registration, theme purchases, and plugin licenses.

• While WordPress offers granular budget allocation, it involves juggling multiple components during setup.

• Conversely, Wix streamlines budgeting and onboarding, suiting users lacking in-house technical support.

• Though scalable, WordPress’s initial complexity often necessitates professional assistance.

Evaluating the first costs of each platform reveals distinct approaches to budgeting. Wix’s bundled fees simplify forecasting by encompassing all essentials in a single payment plan. In contrast, WordPress users face separate line items for hosting, domain procurement, themes, and plugins. This modular pricing structure grants control but requires coordination of various services. Determining which model aligns with your starting budget hinges on technical resources and financial planning.

Recurring Fees

• Wix: Predictable subscription pricing with fixed monthly or annual renewals.

• WordPress: Recurring charges for hosting, plugin renewals, and theme licenses fluctuate.

• Site owners must track plugin and theme licenses to prevent downtime or feature loss.

• Wix subscriptions cover SSL certificates, security updates, and platform maintenance.

• Forecasting expenses is simpler with Wix, whereas WordPress’s adaptability requires diligent oversight.

Subscription models drive the ongoing costs for both platforms, but with different transparency levels. Wix provides a straightforward subscription that covers all core features and renews at consistent intervals. For WordPress, renewals for hosting, premium plugins, and theme updates can vary significantly based on chosen services and providers. Users must periodically review license statuses to ensure uninterrupted functionality. While Wix’s all-inclusive approach aids in budgeting, WordPress’s flexible renewals offer opportunities for cost optimisation if managed carefully.

Upgrade Costs Over Time

• Wix: Scaling up involves switching to a higher-tier plan (e.g., Combo to Unlimited) with predefined pricing.

• WordPress: Enhancements could require upgraded hosting packages, custom development, or additional plugins.

• Predictable pricing is a key Wix advantage, while WordPress provides piecemeal upgrades at different price points.

• As your site expands, Wix bundles advanced features in each tier, whereas WordPress scaling is project-based.

• The eventual expense depends on visitor volume, required functionalities, and support arrangements.

As websites evolve, the expense of unlocking new features or resources becomes a critical factor. With Wix, advancing to a more robust subscription tier comes with a clear, fixed price increase. In the WordPress ecosystem, scaling up typically involves selecting a higher hosting plan, hiring developers, or installing paid extensions. This modular approach grants flexibility but can complicate cost forecasting. Understanding your anticipated traffic and feature roadmap is crucial for estimating future expenses accurately.

Which Platform Offers Better Value for Money?

Ease of Use vs Flexibility

For those seeking speed and simplicity, Wix clearly outshines WordPress by eliminating the need to manage hosting or write code. Its user-friendly interface, integrated toolkit, and dedicated customer assistance cater perfectly to novices and small enterprises. By contrast, WordPress demands more technical involvement but rewards users with extensive adaptability and advanced functionality. Users with the skills or resources to juggle separate services will find WordPress offers better value over time. Ultimately, deciding between ease of use and comprehensive flexibility is key to determining which platform best meets your priorities.

Customization vs Cost

While Wix enables some template tweaks and visual adjustments, it cannot support deeply custom requirements or third-party integrations. Its closed ecosystem ensures consistency but restricts the scope of design and functionality. In contrast, WordPress offers unparalleled customisation, granting control over every site element and compatibility with a myriad of external tools. Yet, harnessing these capabilities often entails additional development time and expense. Carefully balancing the platform’s adaptability against its overall cost is crucial for long-term success.

Support and Maintenance

Every Wix subscription comes with integrated support channels—email, live chat, and phone assistance in higher tiers—eliminating the need to seek help elsewhere. This built-in service model accelerates problem resolution and offers peace of mind. Conversely, WordPress relies primarily on its community forums unless users subscribe to a managed hosting plan or retain external experts. Routine tasks like patching, backups, and security monitoring must be handled proactively. Organisations need to consider whether they value bundled, responsive support or prefer the control of a community-based ecosystem.

Final verdict

Ultimately, choosing between Wix and WordPress hinges on your technical expertise, the scope of your project, and your budgetary targets. Wix excels in delivering a user-friendly experience with consolidated pricing and minimal setup complexity, which appeals to individuals and small organisations. WordPress stands out for its extensive customisation potential, scalability, and granular cost control for those prepared to manage or outsource technical operations. Each option carries inherent advantages and drawbacks that affect its overall value and functionality. By aligning platform capabilities with your objectives, growth projections, and financial constraints, you can select the optimal solution for your website.