Client pricing conversations for small business sites tend to go sideways fast because most public pricing data doesn't separate small business needs from generic "website cost" numbers.
From a build perspective, here's what actually changes the estimate:
Scope discipline matters more than tech stack. A 5–10 page WordPress build with Google Business Profile integration and local SEO schema is a very different estimate than an unscoped "business website" request.
Local SEO isn't optional line-item work anymore. For small businesses, skipping schema markup and location-targeted content isn't a cost-saver — it directly undercuts the site's purpose.
Content readiness is the biggest hidden cost multiplier. Clients who show up without copy or photos add real hours regardless of your rate.
I put together a full pricing breakdown by business type (local shop, service provider, professional practice, restaurant) with realistic ranges and a real project example: https://amanurrahman.com/blog-post/small-business-website-cost
Curious how others scope these — do you quote flat-rate packages or itemize by page/feature for small business clients?