Studio17Designs

Custom-built website vs Wix or Squarespace

Wix and Squarespace cost roughly AUD $25 to $60 per month and let you launch in a weekend. A custom-built site costs more up front but you own it, it loads faster, and it is not limited by the builder's templates or SEO controls. The right answer depends on whether the website is a formality or a lead source.

Side by side

CriterionCustom buildWix / Squarespace
OwnershipYou own the code and domainRented; export is limited
Monthly costCare plan from AUD $99 (optional)AUD $25–$60 subscription
Up-front costFlat build feeLow, or your time
Page speedFast by defaultAverage; limited control
SEO controlFull: metadata, structured data, redirectsBasic fields; some limits
DesignCustom to your brandTemplate-based
Growing into an appSame stack as our custom appsNot possible; rebuild

Our verdict

A builder is a fine first site for a new business testing an idea. Once you depend on search enquiries, or you want booking, portals, or anything beyond a brochure, a custom build pays for itself through speed, control, and ownership.

Frequently asked questions

Can you move my Wix or Squarespace site to a custom build?

Yes. We rebuild the content on Next.js, set up redirects from the old URLs so rankings carry over, and move the domain. Most migrations take two to four weeks.

Do you maintain Squarespace and Wix sites?

Yes. Care plans cover builder sites: updates to content, monitoring, SEO checks, and a real person to call when something breaks.

Let's get your website working for you.

New site, a redesign, or someone to finally look after the one you have. Tell us what you need — we reply within one business day.

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