23 Types of Websites You Can Create (eCommerce, Business, Blog, Wiki, Cost)

Different types of websites serve distinct purposes and have specific requirements. Understanding all the various website types is therefore essential for anyone starting their journey of creating a website.

This article explains the 23 types of websites you can create, including their purpose and real-life examples. The list includes eCommerce websites, landing pages, booking sites, membership sites, affiliate marketing sites, online forums and blogs. We then discuss the process of deciding which website type to create and how this affects the cost of website building. Finally, we explain how to match your chosen website type with suitable web hosting.

1. Business website

A business website is a type of website that represents a business online. It showcases important information about a business and explains to customers how the business solves their pain points. 

The purpose of creating a business website is to acquire new customers, clients, and partners. It serves as a business’s official online presence, whether it is B2B or B2C facing. This assists with business branding by communicating its key values. A business website also functions as a central hub for digital marketing efforts from online platforms like social media. This makes it invaluable for generating leads and sales within and beyond local borders. 

Real-life business website examples include the multinational bank JPMorgan Chase’s official site (jpmorganchase.com) and beverage Coca-Cola’s site (coca-colacompany.com/). 

2. eCommerce website

An eCommerce website is a type of website that facilitates selling goods or services online. It acts as a virtual storefront and allows businesses to sell products to customers without needing to operate a physical storefront. Key features of eCommerce websites include product listings, shopping carts, payment processing systems and inventory management. These websites also offer a way to analyze customer behavior to optimize marketing strategies and improve customer satisfaction.

The main purpose of creating eCommerce websites is profit. They allow a business to streamline the online shopping experience, expand their selling reach, and increase sales via a global audience. 2 examples of eCommerce websites are Amazon (amazon.us/) and Target (target.com). 

3. Landing page website

A landing page website is a type of business website with a role to receive traffic from marketing and advertising campaigns. They use streamlined content to minimize distractions and direct visitors to a specific call-to-action (CTA) like signing up for a service or making a purchase

The main purposes of creating landing pages are to drive conversions and capture leads for marketing campaigns. Unlike regular websites, landing pages focus on a single objective. This enhances conversion rates and helps businesses achieve their marketing goals effectively. 2 examples of landing page websites include Wix’s signup page (wix.com/wix-lp/illustration) and Airbnb’s host page (airbnb.com/host/homes).

4. Booking website

A booking website is a type of business website that facilitates scheduling appointments, reservations, or services. It includes tools and features that allow customers to select dates and times, make reservations, and confirm appointments. Booking websites are ideal for service-oriented industries such as restaurants, spas, and professional services. 

The purposes of creating booking websites are to streamline the booking process and manage schedules efficiently. They let businesses handle bookings online which reduces the need for phone calls. Booking websites also include real-time availability updates, automated reminders, and payment processing to enhance the overall customer experience. 2 examples of booking websites are the Brooklyn hair salon Fox and Jane (foxandjanesalon.com) and Manhattan barber Man Made Barber (mademanbarber.com/). 

5. Membership website

A membership website is a type of business website that restricts access to its content and resources to registered members only. Users sign up for free or pay a subscription fee to gain access to exclusive content, features, or communities. Membership websites serve as hubs for educational content, professional networking, and digital services.

The purpose of creating membership websites is typically to create recurring revenue. They attract and retain members by providing ongoing value through exclusive resources, updates, and interactions. This type of website is also great for fostering community since it encourages long-term engagement and loyalty. 2 examples of membership websites are female empowerment membership site HERoines (heroinesinc.org) and shaver site Dollar Shave Club (us.dollarshaveclub.com/). 

6. Subscription website

A subscription website is a type of membership website that provides content, products, or services from a business to its subscribers. Users pay a recurring fee for ongoing access to these offerings. These websites range from media streaming services to subscription boxes and educational platforms.

The purposes of creating subscription websites are to ensure steady income and to offer continuous value to subscribers. This business model also promotes customer loyalty and provides a predictable revenue stream. 2 examples of subscription websites are pocket notebook company FieldNotes (fieldnotesbrand.com/) and Birchbox (birchbox.com/).

7. Affiliate marketing website

An affiliate marketing website is a type of business website that promotes products or services from third-party merchants. It earns commissions for sales or actions completed through special tracking links (aka affiliate links or referral links) to its affiliate partners’ products. The site guides visitors towards making informed purchases through content types like reviews, comparisons, and recommendations. 

The purposes of creating affiliate marketing websites are to generate profit through affiliate commissions. Successful affiliate marketing websites often leverage SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and social media marketing to attract a targeted audience. 2 examples of affiliate marketing websites include Wirecutter (nytimes.com/wirecutter/) and NerdWallet (nerdwallet.com).

8. Coupon website

A coupon website is a type of website that compiles and offers deals, discounts, and vouchers from various eCommerce sites. Coupon websites attract bargain-hunters by providing a wide range of offers across different categories. Example coupons include promo codes, cashback offers, Buy One Get One Free, and Limited-Time offers. They often feature user-generated content and reviews. Coupon websites need to be updated regularly.

The purpose of creating coupon websites is typically to drive traffic and sales to partner retailers. These websites then benefit from affiliate commissions for the referrals they make. 2 examples of coupon websites are RetailMeNot (retailmenot.com/) and Groupon (groupon.com/). 

9. Review website

A review website is a type of business website that publishes evaluations and ratings of products or services. They feature expert reviews, user ratings, and aggregated scores to offer a comprehensive overview of the topic they are evaluating. Successful review websites build credibility by providing unbiased and well-researched content.

The purposes of creating review websites are to inform consumers and to help them make informed purchasing decisions. They provide the opportunity for monetization via affiliate links, sponsored posts and partnerships. 2 examples of review websites are travel review site TripAdvisor (tripadvisor.com) and audio equipment review site Stereophile (www.stereophile.com).

10. Directory website

A directory website is a type of website that lists businesses, services, or resources, often categorized for easy navigation. They typically offer search filters, user reviews, clear categories, and detailed information about each listing. Maintaining an up-to-date and accurate directory is crucial for user trust.

The purposes of creating directory websites are to provide comprehensive listings and to facilitate searches for specific needs. Directory websites help users find relevant businesses or services quickly and efficiently. These websites serve as valuable tools for local businesses and service providers to increase their visibility. 2 examples of directory websites include Yelp (yelp.com/) and Yellow Pages (yellowpages.com/).

11. Live streaming website

A live streaming website is a type of website that broadcasts live video content to viewers in real-time. Live streaming websites cater to various niches including gaming, events, talks, tutorials, and performances. Key features of living streaming sites include a live chat, a viewer count, tipping features and interactive polls. 

The purpose of creating live streaming websites is to allow creators to connect with an audience. The real-time interaction helps creators foster a deeper sense of community. Donation and subscription options also empower creators to make a business out of this type of site by receiving monetary support from viewers. 2 examples of live streaming websites include Twitch (twitch.tv/) and YouTube Live (www.youtube.com/live).

12. Event website

An event website is a type of website that promotes and provides information about an upcoming event. Example events are music festivals, workshops, conferences and webinars. Key features of event websites are calendars, image galleries of past events, countdowns, important event information and eCommerce functionality to allow attendees to purchase tickets. 

The purposes of creating event websites are to facilitate businesses with event planning, registration and execution. They help organizers manage registrations, sell tickets, and communicate with attendees. 2 examples of event websites are the site for electronic dance music festival Tomorrowland (tomorrowland.com/) and the site for Mindvalley’s annual A-fest event (afest.com/).

13. Travel website

A travel website is a type of website that offers travel information and/or booking services. Content typically covers flight and hotel bookings, destination guides, itineraries, reviews, and travel tips. High-quality and emotive visual elements like photos and videos are important. Certain travel sites are created by individual travelers blogging about their holidays. Others are operated by travel businesses offering custom itineraries. 

The purposes of creating travel websites are to assist leisure and business travelers in planning and booking trips. Travel site owners have the opportunity to monetize using affiliate links. This lets them earn commissions on travel bookings made through their site. Other revenue streams include sponsored content, advertising, and selling travel-related products and services  2 examples of travel websites are The Broke Backpacker (thebrokebackpacker.com) and Lonely Planet (lonelyplanet.com). 

14. Photography website

A photography website is a type of portfolio website that showcases a photographers’ creative and professional portfolio. Photography sites typically include image galleries, client testimonials, artist statements, and eCommerce capabilities for selling prints. Additional features include blogs with behind-the-scenes content, and booking options for photography sessions.

The purposes of creating photography websites are to display photos, attract clients, and sell prints. Photography websites provide a platform for photographers to present their best photos and establish their professional identity for marketing purposes. 2 examples of photography websites are Elliott Erwitt (elliotterwitt.com) and Sally Mann (sallymann.com).

15. Portfolio website

A portfolio website is a type of business website that showcases an individual’s or agency’s work, skills, and experiences. Key features include interactive galleries, case studies, testimonials, downloadable resumes, and contact forms.

The purpose of creating portfolio websites is to present a visual resume and to attract potential clients or employers. Portfolio websites highlight the owner’s unique expertise and style, making it easier for clients or employers to evaluate their capabilities. This type of website is therefore crucial for professionals in creative fields. 2 examples are the portfolio of web developer Jan Baszczok (yasio.dev) and creative developer Robb Bowen (robbowen.digital). 

16. Personal website

A personal website is a type of portfolio website that focuses on sharing information about a particular individual (accomplishments, hobbies, and opinions). Personal websites typically include personal blogs, portfolios, social media integration, and contact forms. 

The purpose of creating personal websites is to create a strong online presence and to showcase personal interests or achievements. They allow individuals to express themselves and share their value with a broader audience. This form of personal branding and networking connects them to potential fans, clients, and partnership opportunities. 2 examples of personal websites are those belonging to the entrepreneur Bill Gates (gatesnotes.com) and Australian windsurfer Sean O’Brien (seanobrien.com.au).

17. Blog

A blog is a type of website that regularly publishes content in an informal or conversational style. Blogs (short for “weblog”) allow writers to cover a wide range of topics across niches. They foster a community through comments and social sharing.

The purposes of creating blogs are to share thoughts, demonstrate expertise, and to engage readers. Many individuals use blogs as platforms for personal expression and potential monetization through methods like advertising, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing. Many businesses add blogs to their business website to build themselves as an authority in their industry and attract potential leads. 2 examples of blogs are the gossip blog Perez Hilton (perezhilton.com) and the fashion and lifestyle blogger Chiara Ferragni’s The Blonde Salad (theblondesalad.com).

18. News website

A news website is a type of business website that publishes current events, articles, and updates. News websites help keep the public informed and engaged with timely information. They often feature long-form articles, multimedia content and interactive elements. Ensuring content credibility and accuracy is particularly crucial for this type of website to maintain reader trust. 

The purpose of creating news websites is to inform readers about the latest news and developments and to provide in-depth analysis and coverage of important issues. From the website owner’s perspective, there is potential for profit through advertising, subscriptions, and sponsored content. Owners might be motivated by a desire to influence public opinion or provide a platform for underrepresented voices. 2 examples of news websites are The New York Times (nytimes.com) and BBC (bbc.com).

19. Entertainment website

An entertainment website is a type of business website that offers entertainment content related to movies, music, games and celebrities. This type of site attracts visitors through high-quality multimedia content, trending stories and interactive features. Other key features of entertainment sites include video clips, games, quizzes, attention-grabbing headlines and social media integration. Keeping content fresh and exciting is key to retaining visitors and therefore this type of site seeks to evoke emotion and engagement

The purpose of creating entertainment websites is to entertain and engage audiences with diverse content and to provide updates on the latest trends. Like news websites, there is potential for profit through advertising, subscriptions, and sponsored content. 2 examples of entertainment websites are Reductress (reductress.com/) and IndieWire (indiewire.com).

20. Online forum

An online forum is a type of business website that serves as a message board for discussions and community interaction. They provide spaces for users to ask questions, share experiences, and connect with others with similar interests. Comment moderation and user guidelines help maintain a positive environment. Forums are common components of membership websites. 

The purpose of creating online forums is to build online communities and share knowledge. Businesses typically add forums to foster a user community around their products or services, as well as boost organic search visibility and gather user feedback. 2 examples of online forums include the world’s biggest forum Reddit (reddit.com/) and history forum Historum (historum.com/).

21. Wiki website

A wiki website is a type of website that functions as a collection of interlinked web pages around particular domains of knowledge. Wikis are characterized by their use of simple language and user-friendly interfaces. They enable collaborative editing which means users create, modify, or delete content directly from their web browser. Effective wikis require active participation and regular updates to maintain accuracy. 

The purpose of creating wiki websites is to share and disseminate knowledge. Internal wikis are used within organizations for knowledge management and project collaboration. External wikis are open to the public and are valuable for educational resources and enabling community-driven content. 2 examples of wiki websites are Wikipedia (wikipedia.org) and Game of Thrones wiki, A Wiki Of Fire And Ice  (awoiaf.westeros.org).

22. Nonprofit website

A nonprofit website is a type of website that supports a non-profit organization by providing information, accepting donations, and engaging volunteers. They feature success stories, impact-reports, event information, and strong calls to action that inspire visitors.  Transparency and accountability are crucial for building trust with donors.

The purpose of creating non-profit websites is to further the charity’s mission and to connect with supporters and stakeholders. Nonprofit websites help raise awareness. They also seek to generate funds and mobilize resources for causes through the volunteer sign-up forms and donor portals. 2 examples of nonprofit website include UNICEF (hunicef.org/) and World Wildlife Fund (worldwildlife.org/).

23. Wedding website

A wedding website is a type of blog that provides details about a couple’s upcoming wedding. Key features of wedding websites include guestbooks, photo galleries, countdown timers, and links to wedding registries. 

The purposes of creating wedding websites are to inform wedding guests of key information including the ceremony venue, date, itinerary, dress code and recommendations for accommodation. Wedding websites also help couples manage RSVPs and share their love story with friends and family. An example wedding website is the wedding site of Chicago couple Mary Jo & Adam (tooheymolloy.com).

How do I determine the type of website to create?

You determine the type of website to create by first identifying the overarching goal of your website. Consider what you want to achieve, whether it’s selling products, sharing information, or building a community. Bear in mind it’s possible for a website type to change according to evolving goals. An example is a blog becoming an online store or membership site when it develops a strong readership. After identifying your goal, conduct research into competitor websites with similar goals. This helps determine whether you’re able to commit the necessary cost and time to create and maintain that type of website. Learn more about the general steps for creating a website.

Does website type affect the cost of building it?

Yes, website type affects the cost of building it because different website types require different components of varying costs. More complex website types like eCommerce or membership sites cost more because they rely on additional paid features or compliance such as eCommerce functionalities, paid security protocols, and premium themes and plug-ins. Simpler website types like blogs or personal sites generally cost less because they require fewer special features. These suffice with free or low-cost themes and plugins. Read more on the cost of building a website.

Does website type affect the choice of web hosting?

Yes, website type affects the choice of web hosting since different types have different traffic expectations. High-traffic website types like news sites require more robust hosting solutions to handle large volumes of visitors and data transfers. Smaller personal sites are able to choose more basic hosting plans since they typically have lower traffic and resource needs. Some websites might need specialized hosting for specific platforms like WordPress. Choosing the right hosting for your website type ensures that it runs smoothly and scales as your traffic grows. Check our best web host lineup to learn more about available hosting plans on the market.