A big “thank you” to Regions Bank for sponsoring this post.
I’m often asked,
“Jessica, does it cost a lot of money to start a blog?”
So I knew it was something I needed to share with you, to help clear up any uncertainties or questions you have, by dropping a little realness with a side of “behind the blog” details, to answer this more in depth for you. And since this post touches on one of the most POPULAR topics around on the internet today… MONEY… I knew it was the perfect fit to work with Regions Bank on this post!
The Truth About Blog Business Bucks
Back in 2011 when I toyed with the idea of blogging as a hobby, I was a little worried that it would be an expensive hobby, frankly because I had NO CLUE what to even think. But once I dug in, did a little research and talked to a friend who knew more about blogging than I did, I realized I could consider starting a blog as an affordable hobby.
“But Jessica, you said, blog business.”
Yes, yes you’re right. But friend, I’m here to tell you that if I started my blog as a business back in 2011, or even today, I would start it the same way. Affordably.
Blog Expense Breakdown
Back in 2016 when I shared some of my blogging income reports, to show you how I make money blogging, I didn’t include the expenses for this very reason: EACH person’s wants/desires are different, and each blog is different.
You can choose to have it as fancy and expensive as you want, or you can keep it as simple and affordable as you want. So I chose to focus on the “income” only in those reports, so you could see which avenues brought in the income. But for basic expenses with starting a blog, here is a quick break down of what you want to keep in mind while exploring starting a blog as a business.
UPDATE: Fast forward to 2022, and I make anywhere from $25,000 – $30,000 a month, blogging, and I absolutely LOVE sharing how I do that in the Smart Blogger’s Society!
For more info on the terms I use below, visit my blog post on “How to Start a Blog in 5 Easy Steps“.
Expenses to Start Blogging
- Computer with Internet Capabilities – More than likely you already have a computer or access to a computer. If so, check this one off of your list!
- Domain – This is your website address that you will need to purchase, and what people will type in to the URL bar to visit your blog. I pay around $10 a year to own my domain, but with some hosts, you can get it for free with specials that they offer. What’s a host? Let me tell you…
- Host – This is a company that provides a location, and provides the equipment to store your blog, on the internet. This can cost as low at $3.99/month. I currently pay around $28/month because my blog has grown and I’ve preferred additional options along the way.
- Website Creation Tool – This is the platform where you’ll actually type your blog posts, upload photos to, and will build/design/create your blog. If you go with Wordpress.org (my recommendation) it’s free to download.
- Theme/Template – This is a layout that is used to show a variety of images/text in an attractive manner. There are free templates and themes out there to use, or you can purchase an affordable one too! (I’ve found a lot that I like for around $15 here.)
Yes, there’s more, but it’s not necessary.
Yep, there’s more that you can have, buy, and use for your blog to make it more to your liking, and to make your site work better for you. But honestly, this is all that you need to get started. So let’s do some quick math.
Computer $0 (assuming you have one, or can use public library)
Domain $10.98 (or free with special that host may offer)
Host $3.95 (a month)
Wordpress $0
Theme $0 (or little as $15)
So that’s around $15 to get your blog started. Well, I’d say that’s one heck of a deal for starting a business. Wouldn’t you?
What’s YOUR Business Idea?
I would LOVE to hear if you’re planning on starting a blog as a business, or if you’re starting a company and looking to add a blog as an arm of your business! If I can help in any way, just let me know. Hopefully, I can shoot some ideas your way!
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