What is the cost difference between a template-based website and a custom-built website for a nonprofit?

The cost, naturally, varies much between the template-based website and the custom-built website for any nonprofit; it depends on aspects like design complexity, functionality, and the time it takes to implement.
Template-Based Website
A template-based website is constructed using pre-designed templates available on web pages like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress.com. These hosts have ready designs that can be easily customized. A basic template-based website will run in the ballpark of $500 to $2,000, depending on the platform, subscription plan, or other added features involved.
Affordable Pricing: Usually, the platforms provide free or low-cost templates. Premium templates cost between $50 and $200.
Ease of Use: These websites need very minimum technical skills, and perfect for small nonprofit organizations.
This also implies limited customization in case templates cannot entirely match the specific branding or sophisticated functionalities required for a nonprofit organization.
Template-based sites are ideal for nonprofits with lean budgets or who have very minimalistic requirements
Custom-Built Website
A custom site is designed and developed for a nonprofit by designers or agencies who specialize in these services. Cost for custom-built websites: typically between $10,000 to $50,000 or even more, depending on the number of features.
Personalized Design: Custom websites are optimized based on the nonprofit's unique branding and goals for a unique online presence.
These websites can have features like CRM integration, multilingual support, donation tools, and event management systems.
Longer Development Time: Custom-built websites take more time to create, requiring collaboration with designers and developers.
Cost Difference
The difference in cost between a template-based and custom-built website is in the range of $9,500 to $48,000. Template-based options are less expensive but will lack advanced features and scalability, which are required for larger nonprofits. Custom-built websites are an investment, but it will be a long-term value for organizations needing a robust and unique platform.
Choosing the Right Option
The decision should be made after considering the average cost to build a website for a nonprofit, the need, budget, and future plans of the nonprofits. Template-based solutions are apt for small-sized nonprofits with minimal resources, while large organizations that have complex requirements might prefer custom-built websites for a more professional and functional design.