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WordPress vs Wix: Which Is Better for Small Businesses?

Last updated: January 2025 | 7 min read

If you're choosing between WordPress and Wix for your small business website, you're asking the right question. Both are popular, but they're completely different tools designed for different needs.

Quick Answer:

WordPress is better for serious businesses that want professional results and strong SEO. Wix is easier for absolute beginners but more limited long-term.

What Is WordPress?

WordPress powers 43% of all websites on the internet. It's the professional standard used by businesses, news sites, and major brands. When you hire a web designer, they'll typically build your site on WordPress.

Key point: WordPress gives you complete control and is infinitely customizable. It's the choice for businesses that want to grow.

What Is Wix?

Wix is a drag-and-drop website builder designed for people with zero technical skills. You pick a template, drag elements around, and publish. Simple.

Key point: Wix trades power and flexibility for simplicity. Great for getting something online fast, but limited if you want professional results.

Head-to-Head Comparison

WordPress

✅ Pros:

  • • Professional, custom design
  • • Better SEO = higher Google rankings
  • • You own your website completely
  • • Can scale as your business grows
  • • More affordable long-term

❌ Cons:

  • • Steeper learning curve for DIY
  • • Requires a designer unless you're technical

Wix

✅ Pros:

  • • Very easy drag-and-drop editor
  • • Quick to get something online
  • • All-in-one platform (hosting included)

❌ Cons:

  • • Looks template-y and generic
  • • Weaker SEO than WordPress
  • • Can't export or truly own your site
  • • Limited customization options
  • • Monthly fees add up over time

SEO: The Big Difference

Here's the truth most people don't tell you: WordPress is significantly better for SEO.

If you want to rank on Google for "website design Barnstaple" or "plumber North Devon", a WordPress site will outperform a Wix site almost every time. Why?

  • WordPress has better technical SEO foundations
  • More control over site speed and performance
  • Google's own engineers have praised WordPress
  • Professional SEO plugins available

Cost Comparison

Wix:

  • • £10-£25/month (£120-£300/year)
  • • Forever. You pay every single year.

WordPress:

  • • One-time build cost: £500-£1,500
  • • Annual hosting: £50-£150/year
  • • Cheaper after year 2

Who Should Use Wix?

Wix makes sense if:

  • You need something online THIS WEEK
  • You're not worried about ranking on Google
  • It's a hobby or side project, not a serious business
  • You want to DIY and don't have a budget for a designer

Who Should Use WordPress?

WordPress is the right choice if:

  • You're serious about your business
  • You want to rank on Google and get organic traffic
  • You need a professional, custom design
  • You plan to grow and want a scalable platform
  • You're hiring a web designer anyway

Let Us Build Your WordPress Website

We specialize in professional WordPress websites for small businesses in Bideford, Ilfracombe, and across North Devon.

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The Verdict

For serious small businesses—tradespeople, local services, startups—WordPress is the better choice. It gives you professional results, better SEO, and long-term value.

Wix is fine for a quick hobby site, but if you want customers to find you on Google and take you seriously, invest in a proper WordPress website.