StackEvalifyCommerce platforms · Desk research
Shopify vs WooCommerce: costs and store setup
Shopify and WooCommerce price different parts of running a store. Shopify sells a hosted subscription; WooCommerce’s core platform is free, while the store owner chooses hosting, payment processing, and any paid extensions. A fair budget compares the full stack, not just the platform fee.
Source check: · Desk research only; StackEvalify has not run a hands-on product test for this comparison.
Quick take
Shopify gives a clearer starting subscription price and includes secure hosting. WooCommerce has no platform subscription, but hosting, payment processing, extensions, and store maintenance still contribute to its total cost. Neither headline price alone tells you which option will cost less for your store.
What the published costs include
Shopify amounts below are US-dollar list prices. WooCommerce’s hosting range and extension range are vendor estimates, not required fees or a quote for a particular store.
Platform subscription
- Shopify
- Basic is listed at US$39 per month, or US$29 per month with annual billing. Annual billing charges the year upfront.
- WooCommerce
- The core WooCommerce platform is free to download and use, with no monthly platform subscription or revenue share.
Hosting
- Shopify
- Secure commerce hosting and unlimited bandwidth are included with the Shopify plan.
- WooCommerce
- You choose and pay a hosting provider. WooCommerce estimates US$25–350 per month for hosting for most stores; actual costs depend on the provider and store needs.
Extensions
- Shopify
- The subscription includes core store features; apps and optional services can add to the bill.
- WooCommerce
- Extensions are optional and bought separately. WooCommerce lists a typical range of US$29–299 per year per extension.
Payment processing
- Shopify
- Card processing fees apply; third-party transaction fees may also apply when using another payment provider. Rates depend on plan and market.
- WooCommerce
- You select a payment processor. WooPayments has no setup or monthly fee, but charges per transaction; rates vary by merchant country, customer country, currency, and payment method.
Store setup model
- Shopify
- A hosted commerce subscription combines the storefront and hosting in one managed service.
- WooCommerce
- An open-source commerce platform for WordPress. You select the host and decide which extensions and services to add.
Shopify’s displayed subscription price depends on the selected billing cycle and market. Card-processing and third-party transaction charges depend on the store’s country, payment method, and plan. WooCommerce hosting, extension, and gateway costs likewise depend on the setup; request local quotes before estimating annual cost.
Which operating model fits?
Shortlist Shopify
Consider it if you want the storefront and secure commerce hosting under one subscription. Check payment processing rates, any third-party provider charges, and which features are included in the plan for your country.
Shortlist WooCommerce
Consider it if you want an open-source store built on WordPress and are prepared to choose a host, payment processor, and extensions. Compare those services and the time needed to operate them against Shopify’s subscription cost.
Build a realistic cost estimate
- 1. Estimate annual sales and order value. Payment rates and higher plan features can matter more as sales volume grows.
- 2. Add every recurring service. Include platform or hosting, domains, extensions/apps, payment processing, backups, security, and support where applicable.
- 3. Trial the real operating workflow. Test product setup, order handling, refunds, shipping, tax settings, and the integrations your team needs.
Sources and method
This page summarizes vendor-published plan and cost information checked on 29 October 2026. It is desk research, not independent usability testing. Prices and terms vary by market and can change; confirm current charges with the vendors and service providers.