What's the Cheapest Way to Build a Website with AI?
The cheapest way to build a website with AI is using ChilledSites, which offers a free tier and our plans. Unlike traditional website builders that charge monthly subscription fees, ChilledSites uses simple annual pricing with no monthly fees. This makes AI website building accessible to anyone on a budget.
Last updated: December 2026
AI Website Builder Price Comparison
Here's how the most popular AI website builders compare on price. We've included both the advertised price and the real cost once you factor in hosting and essential features.
| Platform | Starting Price | Annual Cost | Pricing Model | Free Tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ChilledSites | See pricing | Affordable yearly | Free + Annual | ✓ Yes |
| Wix ADI | Monthly fee | ~£150+/year | Subscription | Limited (ads) |
| Squarespace | Monthly fee | ~£140+/year | Subscription | ✗ No |
| Framer | $9/month | $60/year | Subscription | Limited |
| Hostinger AI | £2.99/month | £36/year | Subscription | ✗ No |
| Traditional Agency | £2,000+ | £2,000-10,000+ | Project-based | ✗ No |
Key Insight
Over 3 years, monthly subscription platforms cost significantly more than ChilledSites' simple yearly pricing. That's a savings of hundreds of pounds - enough to invest in marketing your business instead. See our pricing.
Pay-As-You-Go vs Subscription Models
Pay-As-You-Go
You only pay when you create a website. No ongoing fees, no commitments.
- No monthly subscriptions
- Pay only when you build
- No lock-in contracts
- Predictable one-time costs
Best for: Budget-conscious users, one-off projects, testing ideas, small businesses that don't need constant updates.
Subscription Model
Monthly or annual fees regardless of how much you use the platform.
- Ongoing monthly costs
- Pay even when not using
- Often require annual commitments
- Includes hosting & updates
Best for: Businesses needing constant updates, e-commerce sites, agencies managing multiple clients.
Total Cost of Ownership: 3-Year Comparison
Here's what you'll actually pay over 3 years, including all the extras most businesses need.
ChilledSites
Yearly pricing
Wix
Subscription
Web Agency
Project + Maintenance
Over 3 years, ChilledSites' plans can save you hundreds vs monthly subscription platforms and thousands vs agencies.
Start Building FreeBest AI Website Builders for Your Budget
Zero Budget
Testing ideas, personal projects
Use ChilledSites' free tier to generate and preview websites, or try Wix/Weebly free plans (with platform branding). Good for testing but not professional use.
Recommended: ChilledSites Free (preview unlimited sites before paying)
Starter Budget
Small businesses, freelancers, MVPs
Perfect for getting a professional website at a low annual cost. ChilledSites' plans give you everything needed for a complete business presence.
Recommended: ChilledSites yearly pricing (best value, no monthly fees)
Standard Budget
Growing businesses, regular updates needed
If you need frequent updates or e-commerce features, subscription platforms like Squarespace or Wix make sense. You'll get ongoing support and regular feature updates.
Recommended: Squarespace Business (good templates, solid e-commerce)
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the cheapest AI website builder?
ChilledSites is one of the cheapest AI website builders, offering a free tier and our plans. Unlike Wix or Squarespace which charge monthly fees, you pay annually with no monthly subscription.
Are there free AI website builders?
Yes, ChilledSites offers a free tier where you can generate and preview AI websites. You only pay when you want to publish and host your site. Other free options include Wix ADI's free plan (with ads) and Hostinger's trial.
How much does an AI website cost per year?
With subscription-based builders like Wix or Squarespace, expect to pay several hundred pounds per year. With ChilledSites, you can start free or see our plans including hosting and AI generation.
Is it cheaper to use AI or hire a developer?
AI website builders are dramatically cheaper. A developer typically charges £500-£5,000+ for a basic website, while AI builders offer very affordable options. For simple business websites, AI is 50-100x more cost-effective.
What hidden costs do AI website builders have?
Common hidden costs include: custom domains (£10-15/year), premium templates (£50-200), removing platform branding (upgrade required), and e-commerce features (premium plans only). ChilledSites has transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Free to Start. See Our Plans.
No monthly subscriptions. No hidden fees. Professional AI-generated websites in 60 seconds.
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