How Much Is WordPress Per Month
WordPress software is free, but running a WordPress site typically costs between $3 and $45 per month depending on hosting, domain registration, and add-ons. The monthly total depends on whether you use a hosted platform like WordPress.com or self-host WordPress.org on a third-party server.
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WordPress.com Hosted Plans
WordPress.com bundles hosting and software into monthly tiers. The free plan includes WordPress.com subdomain and limited features. The Personal plan starts around $4 per month, the Premium plan around $10, and the Business plan around $25. The eCommerce plan, which adds online store functionality, starts around $45 per month. These prices are billed monthly, though annual billing lowers the effective rate.
Self-Hosted WordPress.org Costs
Self-hosting requires a hosting provider and a domain name. Shared hosting plans from providers like Bluehost, SiteGround, or Hostinger typically run $3 to $10 per month. Managed WordPress hosting, which includes automatic updates, backups, and performance tuning, costs $15 to $40 per month depending on the provider and resources allocated.
Domain and Extras
A domain name costs roughly $10 to $15 per year, or about $1 to $1.50 per month when amortized. SSL certificates are often free through Let's Encrypt or included with hosting. Premium themes, plugins, and security services can add $5 to $30 per month if you opt for paid tiers beyond what is free.
What Affects the Monthly Price
The main cost drivers are hosting type, traffic volume, and feature needs. Shared hosting is cheapest but slower under load; managed hosting scales better but costs more. Sites needing e-commerce, membership features, or high-security compliance will land on the higher end of the range.
Monthly Cost Summary
| Option | Monthly Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| WordPress.com Free | $0 | Learning, hobby blogs |
| WordPress.com Personal | $4 | Simple blogs with custom domain |
| Shared Hosting (self-hosted) | $3–$10 | Small business sites, portfolios |
| Managed WordPress Hosting | $15–$40 | Growing sites, e-commerce |
| WordPress.com Business | $25 | Monetized sites with plugins |
| WordPress.com eCommerce | $45 | Online stores |