How Much Does it Cost to Create a Blog

This post is for all the newbies who are planning to start a blog. If you want to create a blog, you can even do it for free. There are few good blogging platforms like www.blogger.com or www.wordpress.com. You can choose any of them to create a blog for free.

However, there is a downside to using a free blogging platform.

If you want to just test your blogging and writing skills then these are great. But if you want to be a serious blogger and also make money blogging, then it’s not recommended to use a free blogging platform.

The problem with free blogging platforms is that they don’t allow you much customization.

Needless to say that you can’t build credibility with a free blog and it doesn’t look professional.

Get a Self Hosted WordPress Blogs

So the best option is to get a self hosted blog powered by WordPress.org blogging software.

This is what most of the big bloggers prefer.

For this option, you need a web host, a domain name ‘linked’ to your web hosting account, WordPress.org software, cool looking theme of your choice and few plugins to add some functionality.

How Much Do I have to Pay to Start a Blog?

If you are serious about blogging and want full control, here is a breakdown of common costs:

Cost of Web Hosting

Bluehost – Usually they charge USD $9.99 per month (36 months plan) or USD 11.99 per month on 12 year plan. However, currently they are running a promotional campaign!

Hostgator – Hostgator usually charges USD $10.99 per month (36 months) for their hatchling plan. They are also running a promotion for new customers.

Cost of Domain Name

A domain name will cost you between $10-$12 per year. However, when you sign up with Bluehost, you get a free domain name.

If you want to register your domain name separately ie not with your web host, in that case, GoDaddy is the best domain name registrar.

Cost of Blogging Software

WordPress.org provides the best and completely free blogging software. It’s most popular and complexity free software. If you get a web hosting account with either Bluehost or Hostgator, you can install WordPress on your own.

Cost of WordPress Theme

There are plenty of free themes available on Internet. You just have to search it on your favourite search engine. Though there are few premium themes as well.

Cost of Plugins

There are plenty of free plugins and you can get gowing with those free ones. In most cases, you won’t need to buy any premium plugin.

Blog Setup Service

If you are DIY kind of person, you can set up the blog on your own.

However, if you want, you can hire an expert to set up the blog properly for you.

Summary

To sum up, here are the following costs involved:

Domain Name ~ $10/year
Hosting ~ $60 per year
Premium Theme (Optional) ~ $25 to $80 (One time)

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