A professional website for your business, for the cost of hosting
The Free Website Guys build websites for small businesses and freelancers at no charge. You only pay for hosting: $35 for the first year, with a free domain. Here is how it works, who it suits, and what to watch for.
Apply for a free websiteThe application takes about 2 minutes.
Four steps to a finished website
- Apply. Fill in a short form about your business.
- Get reviewed. The studio replies within 24–48 hours and assigns a developer if you are a fit.
- Set up hosting. Sign up for Bluehost through the studio's link: $35 for the year, domain included.
- Get your site. The studio builds your website and shows you how to edit it yourself.
Who gets the most out of it
- Local service businesses: contractors, bakers, salons, cleaners, coaches, consultants.
- Freelancers who need a clean portfolio site to win clients.
- New businesses that cannot spend thousands on an agency for a first website.
Not the right fit if:
- You need a complex online store, member accounts or a fully custom design.
- You want everything finished in a few days.
So what is the catch?
The design and build are free; the website as a whole is not. The studio earns a commission on hosting and on paid work some clients order later. Know this before you apply:
- Hosting is paid: $35 for the first year.
- From year two, hosting renews at the regular Bluehost price: renewal price.
- Not every application is accepted.
- Extra features and changes after launch may cost extra.
Bottom line: for the first year you get a working website for about the price of two coffees a month. Just plan for hosting costs in the years after.
What a website costs in year one
| Option | First year | Who builds it |
|---|---|---|
| The Free Website Guys | $35 (hosting) | the studio, free |
| Wix | $100 | you |
| Squarespace | $100 | you |
| Web agency | several thousand dollars | the agency |
Builder prices change; check them on the official sites.
Not sure what your website should do?
A website is a tool, not a goal. If you are unsure what to put on it or how it should bring you clients, start with the goal. In a free 20-minute call we look at your situation and decide what kind of website you need, if any.
Book a free callFAQ
Is the website build really free?
Yes. The studio does not charge for building the site. You only pay for hosting.
Do they accept applicants outside the US?
[Confirm with the studio and add the answer.]
Can I move to another host later?
Yes. A WordPress site can be moved to any host.
How long does it take?
[Confirm with the studio, usually a few weeks.]
Can I edit the site myself?
Yes. The studio shows you how to update text and images without a developer.
Ready for your website?
Apply in about 2 minutes. If you are accepted, you will have a professional website within weeks.
Apply for a free websiteThis page contains an affiliate link. If you sign up for hosting through the studio, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I am not affiliated with The Free Website Guys beyond their affiliate program.
