Our Estimates vs Agency Quotes — Real Data
We compared our calculator output against 600+ real agency proposals. Here's what we found: agencies charge 30-50% more due to PM overhead, sales costs, and profit margins — not because the work costs more.
| Project Type | Our Estimate | Typical Agency | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Landing Page | $800 – $2,500 | $2,000 – $5,000 | ~55% |
| Business Website | $2,000 – $6,000 | $5,000 – $15,000 | ~58% |
| Ecommerce Store | $4,000 – $15,000 | $10,000 – $35,000 | ~57% |
| Marketplace | $15,000 – $45,000 | $30,000 – $80,000 | ~47% |
| Custom Web App | $10,000 – $40,000 | $25,000 – $75,000 | ~52% |
Why the difference?
- Our estimates are based on 600+ real projects — actual build costs, not sales quotes.
- Agency quotes include 30-50% markup for project management, account managers, and office overhead.
- We factor in platform, features, and complexity — the same variables that drive real cost.
- Our data covers freelancers, small studios, and mid-size teams across 6 markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are agency quotes higher than your estimates?
Agency quotes typically include 30-50% overhead for project management, sales teams, office costs, and profit margins. Our estimates reflect the actual development cost based on 600+ real projects.
Are your estimates accurate for hiring freelancers?
Yes. Our estimates are calibrated against real freelancer and small-team pricing across 6 markets. They represent what you should expect to pay a qualified independent developer or small studio.
Should I always choose the cheaper option?
Not necessarily. Agencies offer project management, dedicated support, and accountability. Our tool helps you understand the true development cost so you can evaluate whether the agency premium is worth it for your situation.