Shopify Website Development Cost

Building an online store with Shopify is a great option for businesses that want a simple and reliable e-commerce platform. However, knowing how much it costs to develop a Shopify website is important for planning your budget. The cost depends on factors like the plan you choose, how detailed your design is, the features you need, and whether you hire a developer or agency to help.

Shopify offers three main pricing plans: Basic Shopify, Shopify, and Advanced Shopify plans include transaction fees as part of their pricing. You may also need to pay for extra things like premium themes, custom apps, or third party tools. If you hire professional developers, the price can go up depending on how much customization and functionality you want.

This blog will explain the main parts of Shopify website development costs, helping you make smart choices and avoid surprises. Whether you're starting a small store or building a big e-commerce business, understanding these costs will help you get the most out of your investment.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Shopify Website?

The cost of building a Shopify website depends on several factors, including the Shopify plan you choose, design requirements, additional features, and whether you hire professional help. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you understand the potential expenses:

1. Shopify Plans

Shopify offers three main pricing plans:

• Basic Shopify: $56 AUD per month (plus transaction fees).
• Shopify: $149 AUD per month (plus transaction fees).
• Advanced Shopify: $575 AUD per month (plus transaction fees).

Each plan includes hosting, security, and essential e-commerce features. Choose a plan based on your business size and requirements.

2. Themes and Design

• Free Themes: Shopify offers several free themes suitable for basic stores.
• Premium Themes: Premium themes cost between $100 to $350 AUD, providing advanced design and functionality.
• Custom Design: Hiring a professional designer for a unique look can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 AUD, depending on the complexity.

3. Apps and Plugins

Adding features like advanced analytics, marketing tools, or product filters often requires paid apps. Most apps charge a monthly fee ranging from $5 to $50 AUD.

4. Development Costs

If you need custom features or integrations, hiring a Shopify developer is necessary. Developers typically charge:

• Hourly Rate: $50 to $200 AUD per hour.
• Project-Based Costs: Simple projects start at $500 AUD, while complex ones can exceed $10,000 AUD.

5. Transaction Fees

Shopify charges transaction fees unless you use Shopify Payments. These fees range from 2% to 0.5%, depending on your plan.

6. Other Costs

• Domain Name: $15 to $30 AUD per year.
• Marketing and SEO: Costs vary depending on your strategy and tools used.

Total Estimated Cost

• Small Business: $500 to $1,000 AUD (using basic plans and free themes).
• Mid-Sized Business: $1,000 to $5,000 AUD (with premium themes and some customizations).
• Large Business: $5,000+ AUD (with custom designs, advanced apps, and professional development).

By understanding these components, you can plan your budget and build a Shopify website that meets your business needs without overspending.

What Affects the Cost of Building a Shopify Store?

Building a Shopify store is similar to designing a custom pair of shoes. The overall cost depends on several factors just like the cost of a pair of shoes depends on the brand, materials, and design features. Let's break down these factors and how they affect your store’s cost.

1. Shopify Monthly Subscription Fee

The Shopify subscription fee is the main cost when setting up your Shopify store. The fee depends on the plan you pick, which is based on your business size, the features you need, and the number of transactions.

Example:

• Starting a Business: If you’re just getting started, you might choose the Basic Shopify Plan for $56 AUD/month. It’s like buying a simple pair of shoes—affordable but without many extra features.
• Growing Business: If your business is growing, the Shopify Plan at $149 AUD/month could be a better choice. It offers extra features like detailed reports and better customer support, much like picking a pair of shoes from a well-known brand that gives you more comfort and durability.
• Larger Businesses: If your business is bigger, you may need the Advanced Shopify Plan at $575 AUD/month. This plan gives you advanced tools like better reports and lower transaction fees. It’s like buying custom-made shoes, where you pay more for higher quality and extra features.

Each plan also has transaction fees, which change depending on the plan. For example, Basic Shopify charges a 2% fee per transaction, while Advanced Shopify charges only 0.5%.

Shopify Pricing Plans Breakdown:

This table shows the different Shopify plans and their fees, helping you decide which plan is best for your business. Whether you're just starting out or running a large business, Shopify has plans that can grow with you.

2. Themes and Design

The design of your Shopify store is a key factor in determining the overall cost. Shopify offers a range of themes, from free to premium, each with different levels of customization.

• Free Themes: These are like buying a pair of standard shoes from a department store. They are functional but may lack uniqueness and advanced design features.
• Paid Themes: These cost between $100 and $350 AUD and offer more customization options and better aesthetics. It's like purchasing shoes from a designer brand that offers more styles and comfort.
• Custom Themes: If you need a completely unique design, you can option for custom theme development. This is the most expensive option, costing between $2,000 and $10,000 AUD, just like getting a pair of custom made shoes designed specifically for you. You get full control over how your store looks and functions, but it comes at a premium price.

3. Third Party Apps

To add extra features to your Shopify store, you may need to install third party apps. These apps can help with customer reviews, marketing automation, product upsells, and more.

• Example: If you need an app for email marketing, it could cost you around $15 AUD/month, which is like adding extra accessories to your shoes, like special insoles for comfort.
• More advanced apps, such as those for product recommendations or loyalty programs, could cost $50 AUD/month or more. This is like purchasing a high end pair of shoes with extra features like waterproofing or special stitching.
• Keep in mind, the more apps you use, the higher the total cost, and some apps may even charge additional transaction fees. Managing apps carefully ensures they work well together without slowing down your store.

4. Domain Registration

Your domain is the web address where customers will find your store. Choosing the right domain is essential for branding and customer trust.

• Example: A standard domain (e.g., myshoes.com.au) typically costs around $15 to $30 AUD/year. This is like buying a pair of shoes with a simple design that gets the job done.
• If you want a more premium domain with a popular keyword or a unique extension like .store or .shop, it could cost more. This is like buying a pair of luxury shoes with exclusive branding or a limited edition design.

5. Hiring Shopify Experts

If you want a professional touch or need help customizing your store, hiring Shopify experts can increase the cost. Shopify experts can help with store setup, custom development, or ongoing maintenance.

• Example: For a basic store setup, you might hire a freelancer for $35 to $55 AUD/hour. This is like getting a pair of shoes from a local cobbler to make minor repairs or adjustments.
• If you need a more complex custom design or functionality, hiring experts could cost between $2,500 and $5,000 AUD. This is similar to hiring a high end shoemaker to create a bespoke pair of shoes from scratch.
• For large scale businesses, hiring experts for enterprise level development could cost $10,000 to $35,000 AUD. This is like ordering a custom pair of shoes made from premium materials with unique features tailored to your specific needs.

How These Factors Add Up

To give you an idea of how these factors add up, here’s an estimate for building a Shopify store:

• Small store: If you choose the Basic Shopify plan, use a free theme, and don’t require many third-party apps, the total cost could be $500 to $1,000 AUD. This is like buying a basic, functional pair of shoes that fit your needs.
• Medium-sized store: If you opt for the Shopify plan, a paid theme, and a few essential apps, the cost could range from $2,000 to $5,000 AUD. This is like purchasing a well-made pair of shoes with added features for comfort and style.
• Large enterprise store: For an enterprise-level store with custom development, advanced apps, and expert help, the total cost could exceed $10,000 AUD. This is like investing in a luxury pair of shoes designed specifically for you, with premium materials and craftsmanship.

By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions about how to build your Shopify store while keeping costs under control.

Shopify Development Costs Breakdown

Building a Shopify store can be an exciting journey, but it's important to understand the costs involved. Whether you choose to build the store yourself (DIY) or hire professional services, the costs can vary significantly based on your needs and the scale of your store. Let’s break down the costs for both approaches.

Method 1: DIY Shopify Store Development

For small businesses or individuals just starting out, building a Shopify store on your own can be a cost-effective option. With a DIY approach, you can take advantage of the platform’s user-friendly tools and resources. Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved:

DIY Shopify Store Development Costs

• Platform Fees: Shopify offers a $1/month plan for the first 3 months, which can help keep initial costs low. After that, the Basic Shopify plan costs $39/month.
• Domain Fees: Domains typically cost around $10 to $30 per year, depending on the extension you choose.
• SSL Certificate: SSL certificates, which ensure secure transactions on your site, can range from $10 to $60.
• Website Theme: Shopify provides free themes, but premium themes can cost up to $390.
• Shopify Apps: Depending on the functionality you need, apps can cost anywhere from $30 to $200.
• Additional Costs: This includes costs for logo design Sydney, content creation, and email marketing, which can range from $0 to $200.

Total Cost Estimate for DIY:

With the $1/month offer, the minimum cost can be as low as $61. Even without the offer, you can still build a store for about $99 with the Basic Shopify plan.

While it’s possible to build a Shopify store for under $100, it’s important to account for any additional costs that may arise as your business grows. Be sure to have a budget for marketing, apps, and custom features down the line.

Method 2: Professional Shopify Store Development

If you want a fully customized, professional Shopify store with advanced features, you may want to hire a Shopify expert or agency. This method is ideal for mid to large-sized businesses or those who want a store that’s ready for high conversions. Let’s look at the cost breakdown for professional services:

Professional Shopify Store Development Costs

For a more advanced Shopify store, you can expect the following additional costs:

• Store Development Service: Hiring a professional can cost anywhere from $200 to $2500, depending on the complexity of your store.
• Shopify Apps: Advanced functionality like custom reporting, advanced analytics, and inventory management apps can cost between $100 to $1000.
• Additional Costs: Custom logo design, content creation, email marketing setup, and other design elements can range from $10 to $350.

Shopify Plus Plan (For Large Businesses):

• Platform Fees: The Shopify Plus plan starts at $2,000/month, and this can go up to $8,000/month depending on your store’s scale and requirements.
• Custom Theme Development: Custom themes can cost between $2,000 and $15,000.
• Custom Features Development: Custom features like integrations, apps, and complex functionalities can cost between $500 and $20,000.

Total Cost Estimate for Professional Services:

The minimum cost for a professional Shopify store development can range from $331 to $4,729 for a standard store. For more complex stores with custom themes and features, the costs can go up to $47,030.

Key Takeaways

• DIY Store: If you’re on a tight budget and willing to handle the setup yourself, you can build a Shopify store for as little as $61 (with the first 3-month offer).
• Professional Store: If you want a fully customized store with professional help, costs can range from $331 to $4,729, with advanced services potentially costing more.

The total cost of building a Shopify store will depend on the features you need, the level of customization, and whether you choose to do it yourself or hire professionals. Keep in mind that ongoing costs like marketing, app subscriptions, and maintenance will also affect your budget.

By understanding these cost breakdowns, you can make a more informed decision based on your business needs and budget.

Why The Ardor for Shopify Store Development Services?

When it comes to building a successful eCommerce business, the platform you choose and the expertise behind it are crucial. The Ardor stands out as a trusted brand for Shopify store development services. Here's why:

1. Expertise in Shopify Store Development

At The Ardor, we specialize in creating high-quality, fully customized Shopify stores tailored to your business needs. Whether you're a small business owner looking to launch your first store or a large enterprise needing advanced Shopify features, we have the skills and experience to bring your vision to life.

2. Tailored Solutions for Every Business

We understand that every business is unique, which is why we offer personalized Shopify store development services. From the initial setup to the final launch, our team ensures that your store reflects your brand's identity and meets your specific requirements. Whether you need a basic store or a more complex, feature-rich design, we offer scalable solutions to fit your budget and business goals.

3. Custom Designs and User Experience

We believe that a beautiful, functional website is key to attracting and retaining customers. Our team at The Ardor works closely with you to design a custom Shopify store that not only looks great but is also user-friendly and optimized for conversions. From responsive designs to intuitive navigation, we ensure that your store offers an exceptional shopping experience.

4. Comprehensive Shopify Services

We offer a full range of Shopify services, including:

• Shopify Setup & Customization: From theme customization to app integrations, we ensure your store is set up exactly how you envision it.
• Shopify SEO: We optimize your store for search engines to increase visibility and drive organic traffic.
• Payment Gateway Integration: We help set up secure and reliable payment gateways for smooth transactions.
• Ongoing Support & Maintenance: After launch, we provide continuous support to ensure your store runs smoothly and stays updated with the latest Shopify features.

5. Proven Track Record

At The Ardor, we have successfully helped numerous clients launch and grow their Shopify stores. Our team has a proven track record of delivering high-quality results, whether it’s a small-scale eCommerce store or a large, multi-product platform. We pride ourselves on our client satisfaction and our ability to drive measurable business growth through Shopify.

6. Cost-Effective Solutions

We understand the importance of budgeting, especially for small businesses. At The Ardor, we offer cost-effective Shopify development services without compromising on quality. Whether you choose a DIY approach or opt for professional development services, we provide transparent pricing and work within your budget to deliver the best results.

7. Long-Term Partnership

We don’t just build your store and leave you to manage it. The Ardor is committed to being a long-term partner in your eCommerce journey. We offer ongoing support, performance optimization, and updates to ensure your Shopify store continues to thrive in the competitive online market.

8. Focus on Results

Our ultimate goal is to help you achieve success. We focus on results-driven strategies that help your Shopify store generate more sales, enhance user engagement, and improve your online presence. With The Ardor, you can trust that we are invested in your business growth.

Conclusion

Building a successful Shopify store requires understanding the costs involved, whether you decide to build it yourself or hire professionals. From the DIY Shopify Store Development option to choosing professional Shopify development services, the costs can vary based on the complexity of your store and the services you pick.

If you're just starting out and have a small budget, the DIY option allows you to create a Shopify store for as little as $100, especially if you use Shopify's special offers. This is a good choice for small businesses or those just testing eCommerce. However, be ready to spend time and effort designing and managing the store on your own.

On the other hand, if you want a professional, well-designed Shopify store with extra features, custom themes, and expert help, The Ardor offers services that can fit businesses of all sizes. While professional development costs more, it ensures your store is easy to use, attracts customers, and helps your business grow.

In the end, the cost of developing a Shopify store can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the features and services you choose. At The Ardor, we make sure you get great value for your investment by offering high-quality Shopify development services at reasonable prices. Whether you choose to do it yourself or get professional help, our goal is to help you create a store that supports your business and helps you succeed.

By understanding the Shopify store development cost breakdown and planning ahead, you can make the best choice that fits your budget and business needs. With The Ardor on your side, you can confidently build a Shopify store that stands out in the competitive world of online shopping.

FAQs

How much does it cost to have someone build a Shopify website? 

The cost to have someone build a Shopify website can range from $500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the store and the services you require. A simple store might cost less, while a fully customized, feature-rich store could cost more.

How much do Shopify developers cost? 

Shopify developers typically charge $25 to $150 per hour, depending on their experience and expertise. For a complete project, you might pay anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the scope and complexity.

Can I pay someone to make my Shopify store? 

Yes, you can hire a Shopify expert or developer to build your store. Freelancers, agencies, or Shopify development companies can create and customize your store based on your needs and budget.

How much do Shopify templates cost? 

Shopify templates (themes) usually cost between $140 and $350. Some themes are free, but paid ones often offer more customization options and better features.

How much does an ecommerce website cost? 

The cost of an eCommerce website can vary widely. For a basic store, it might cost around $500 to $2,000. For a more advanced, feature-rich site, the price could go up to $10,000 or more, depending on the complexity and customization required.