Squarespace is set to increase its prices by as much as 26%, a change that has sparked widespread discussions among its users, especially within the photography and creative communities. Many clients have received emails outlining these upcoming price adjustments, with the impact varying based on their chosen plan and payment preferences. This topic is generating considerable buzz on platforms like Threads, where photographers, designers, and visual artists are voicing their concerns and seeking advice for alternative website services.
Filmmaker Mike Reda expressed his decision to move away from Squarespace, questioning, “Where are we all moving to? I have a basic landing page showcasing my film and video work; what’s the next best plug-and-play solution?” Similarly, photographer Stephen Broome is on the hunt for a more budget-friendly yet customizable platform, saying, “The price has long been hard to justify.” Photographer Ryan Neeven also chimed in, asking for suggestions on alternative hosting options. These comments reflect a broader dialogue happening online among photographers and creatives.
Squarespace has long been a popular choice within the photography community, with many photographers promoting it as influencer-style marketers. Numerous photography YouTube channels have offered special Squarespace discount codes and promotional links. The exact number of photographers using Squarespace because of these promotions is uncertain, but it’s significant.
With prices rising everywhere due to factors like tariffs, memory shortages, corporate strategies, or inflation, photographers are understandably concerned about yet another essential service becoming more expensive. Many feel the timing is unfortunate, as it seems like everything is becoming pricier simultaneously. This frustration is compounded by the fact that Squarespace went private in October 2024, acquired by the private equity firm Permira for $7.2 billion. Often, when private equity firms take over companies, price increases follow to boost revenue and satisfy investors.
So, what’s changing with Squarespace? While the company hasn’t released a specific public memo regarding its price changes, it has communicated these adjustments directly to customers via email. Archived webpages have allowed users to track how Squarespace’s pricing has evolved. As of July 17, 2026, for annual plans, the Basic plan’s cost will increase by $3 per month, rising from $16 to $19, marking a 19% increase. The Core plan, which includes advanced features like website analytics and professional email services, will go up from $23 to $29 monthly, a 26% increase. The Plus plan will also see a 26% hike, moving from $39 to $49 per month. The Advanced plan remains at $99 per month, unchanged.
For those opting for monthly payments, the Basic and Advanced plans will remain the same, but the Core plan will rise by 8%, from $36 to $39 monthly. The Plus tier will increase by 16%, from $56 to $65 monthly.
The online conversation about Squarespace’s price increase is complicated by the fact that users come from different price backgrounds, with some having started with significant promotional discounts. For those now renewing their subscriptions, the price jump could seem dramatic. Additionally, various promotions and discounts offered by Squarespace at different times add another layer of complexity to the situation.
Most users agree that they will face higher costs, a change they find unwelcome. There is a belief that Squarespace is raising prices to cover the costs of adding new AI tools to its platform, tools that many users did not ask for and are uninterested in. For some, paying more for features they don’t use is frustrating. A Reddit user shared their struggle, stating that their costs have increased by 61% since they first signed up in 2021, despite not using new features like AI.
On the positive side, Squarespace recently introduced a new suite of tools to support businesses looking to sell limited releases, which could be beneficial for photographers selling limited-edition prints. However, many users feel this doesn’t justify the steep price hike.
Photographers have a wide array of alternative website builders to consider if they decide to leave Squarespace. Options like Format, Smugmug, Zenfolio, and Wix offer similar features like templates, custom domains, and storefront experiences.
PetaPixel contacted Squarespace for comments on the price changes but did not receive a response before publication.
Image credits: Header photo licensed via Depositphotos.com.
