A domain name is your address on the web. It’s where your brand lives, where your virtual store is set up, and how people find you. But how much should you pay for it?
Some domain names can be expensive, while others might be free. With such different prices, it can be hard to choose a domain.
This guide will help you understand what to think about when figuring out how much to spend on your domain name.
How much does a domain name cost?
Most registrars charge you between $10 and $20 a year for a domain name. However, the cost can go up when it’s time to renew.
The extension of your domain may also affect the price. Some domains—like .com—are pricier than others, especially if they’re tied to a popular name.
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The price of the domain also covers the services the registrar provides to keep your domain active and linked to the right IP address.
What about free domains?
Some platforms, like Shopify, give you a free subdomain when you start out—like “www.[storename].myshopify.com.” It’s a quick way to get your website live without spending much.
A free domain is handy when you’re just testing ideas or launching a new business. But as your site grows, you’ll probably want a domain name that really represents your brand.
How much should you pay for a domain?
Well, it depends. If you’re just starting out with a personal or small business website, a free subdomain might be all you need. But if you’re an established company, expect to spend between $30 and $50 to secure a competitively priced domain.
If most of your traffic comes from search engines or people typing in your site’s address, it might be worth paying a bit more for a catchy domain name that’s easy to remember.
Choosing a domain that clearly shows what your website is about can also help with search engine rankings. For example, “www.yummyrecipes.com” could be great for a recipe blog.
Domain prices across the industry
As of today, here’s what you’d likely pay for a domain name from some popular sellers.
These rates are for registering a standard .com domain. Keep in mind that costs can vary widely based on the specific domain name, its extension (.com, .net, .org), and how popular or in-demand the name is.
GoDaddy
GoDaddy is among the biggest domain registrars globally. Registering a standard .com domain with GoDaddy will run you about $21.99 annually, with a notable discount for the first year.
Bluehost
Bluehost is a hosting provider that includes domain registration services. Registering a .com domain through Bluehost will cost you roughly $12.99 per year.
Namecheap
Namecheap is popular for its budget-friendly rates. Registering a .com domain with Namecheap will cost about $13.98 per year, and with a modest first-year discount included in the package.
Shopify
Shopify lets you buy a domain name directly on its platform. Registering a standard .com with Shopify costs around $15 per year.
Note that these are sample rates. Your domain’s length, extension, add-ons, and popularity will determine its actual price.
How to get a premium domain for a good price
Securing a domain name at a fair price comes down to finding the right fit and provider. Here are some ways to make sure you’re getting a good deal:
Browse different domain registrars
The cost of the same domain can vary with different providers, so it’s worth checking out a few to find the best price.
Keep an eye on promotional offers and sales. Some registrars have generous discounts for new customers.
Don’t overspend on domains
You don’t have to go for a costly domain if it’s not essential for your business. As long as your domain is easy to remember and fits your brand, you’re set.
But if you think a premium name is a must for branding, plan for it in your marketing budget. You might be able to write off some of the cost as a business expense.
Look past .com
Trying less common domain extensions can get you a good name for less.
Like, .tech could work for an IT startup, or .eco might fit a green business. These extensions often cost less than .com.
Lately, more new extensions have popped up. That gives you more chances to grab a short, simple name.
For instance, .dev could attract coders, while .journal fits bloggers. There are also city-based extensions like .sf or .paris, to help make your site feel more local.
Check renewal cost
When you register a domain, you’re essentially renting it for a set period. Once that time runs out, you have to pay renewal fees to keep it.
Most domain registrars offer discounts if you commit to registering the domain for several years. If you’re confident in your domain choice, this can save you money while ensuring you keep the name for a longer period.
Consider domain auctions
Domain auctions are places where you can buy or sell existing domain names. You might find a unique name this way.
But auctions can get competitive, and prices can go up fast. If you’re thinking about buying a domain this way, set a budget and stick to it.
You can also negotiate directly with the owner of a domain. Check with your domain registrar to see if it can act as a broker during the negotiation.
Where to buy domains
You can buy a domain name from three main sources: domain registrars, hosting sites that include domain services, and website creation platforms.
Domain registrars
Domain registrars are companies that sell domain names. They usually offer good prices and may include extras like privacy protection, SSL encryption, and help with buying domains. Many domain registrars give discounts if you pay for several years upfront.
Here’s a look at some popular domain registrars:
- GoDaddy
- Namecheap
- Google Domains
- Domain.com
- Name.com
- Porkbun
- Dynadot
- NameSilo
- Register.com
GoDaddy is arguably the best choice for domain registration due to its great discounts and a wide range of services. Porkbun is another provider worth considering, with affordable domains and additional features like hosting and management tools. If you’re looking for a balance between cost and value, Namecheap is a great option to explore.
Web hosting sites
Web hosting providers store your website’s data on their servers. They often bundle hosting with domain registration, making it easy to set up your site.
Popular web hosting sites:
- Bluehost
- SiteGround
- IONOS
- HostGator
- Hostinger
- A2 Hosting
- DreamHost
- InMotion Hosting
Shopify plans also include secure website hosting.
Website creation platforms
Website creation platforms offer an all-in-one package. They provide web hosting, no-code tools for building your site, and the option to buy and connect a new domain name.
Popular website builders:
- Shopify
- Wix
- WordPress
- Squarespace
- Square Online
If you’re setting up an online store, Shopify has you covered. Every plan includes a website builder, hosting, and a free subdomain.
How is domain price calculated?
Let’s break down what makes a domain name cost what it does:
Domain extension (TLD)
The letters after the dot in your domain, called the top-level domain (TLD), influence its price. A .com or .org TLD will probably cost more than a niche extension like .shop or .art.
While .com is most common, a country code TLD like .us or .au can help signal location to visitors. International businesses often grab multiple regional TLDs to cover their bases.
Domain length and popularity
Short, catchy domain names tend to come with a higher price tag. For instance, the domain name books.com would cost more than buygoodbooks.com—and that would be more than buygoodnovels.com.
Availability
If someone already owns the domain you want, you might still be able to buy it, but it’ll probably cost more. This is especially true for popular domains with lots of interest. The owner might even put it up for auction, driving the price up even higher.
Paying the right domain price
A domain plays a fundamental role in shaping your online presence. Since domain costs can vary widely, it’s important to do your research and learn how to secure the best deal. With the right knowledge and strategy, you won’t have to spend a fortune to secure a domain that works for your business.
Domain price FAQ
What is a domain name?
The domain name system assigns text-based addresses to websites. Users then rely on these addresses to easily find and access content online.
Do I have to pay registration fees for each domain name?
Yes, each domain name you register comes with its own registration fees. These fees are typically paid annually to keep the domain active.
Can I own multiple domain names?
Yes, you can own multiple domain names. Many businesses do this to protect their brand or target different audiences.
What happens if I have an expired domain name?
If you have an expired domain name, it could become available for others to purchase. Most registrars give you a short period to renew before this happens.
Can I keep a domain name forever?
Domains usually need to be renewed each year, but you can hold onto one for up to 10 years at a time.
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