How Much It Cost to Register a Domain Name? A 2025 Price Comparison

You've got the perfect idea for your next project or business. The vision is clear, the name is catchy, and you’re ready to build your online presence. But then you hit the first, often confusing, hurdle: securing the right domain name. You start searching, and the domain name cost seems to be all over the map. One site offers a dollar deal, another quotes a high two-figure price for the same extension.

It’s a frustrating process. Why is there no simple answer to how much does it cost to register a domain name? Hidden fees, surprise renewal hikes, and a growing universe of domain types can make a simple purchase feel complex.

This post will cut through the noise. We'll break down the true costs of domain names, explore the exciting new world of Web3 domains, and show you how to get the best possible value for your investment.

Why Domain Name Prices Vary So Much

Before we get to a domain name price comparison, it's crucial to understand why the costs fluctuate. The price you pay isn't arbitrary; it's a combination of several factors:

• The TLD (Top-Level Domain): This is the extension at the end of your domain, like .com, .org, or .ai. A classic .com has a different base price than a trendy .ai or a specialized .actor. The registry that manages the TLD sets a wholesale price, which is the biggest cost factor.
• The Registrar: This is the company you buy the domain from, like Freename. Each registrar sets its own markup and offers different packages.
• Registration vs. Renewal: Many registrars lure you in with a low first-year price, only to significantly increase the renewal cost in subsequent years. Transparency here is key.
• Add-Ons: Services like WHOIS privacy protection (which hides your personal information from public view) can sometimes be an added cost.

At Freename, we focus on providing clear, upfront pricing so you know the full cost of ownership from day one.

Traditional Domain Costs

For most websites (Web2), the cost to register a domain name can range from around $10 to over $100 per year, depending heavily on the TLD. While some niche TLDs like .auto or .bank can cost thousands, most common choices are far more affordable.

Here’s what you can expect to pay for some popular TLDs at Freename, including our current promotional pricing.

Note: Prices are subject to change. Please check the official Freename pricing page for the most current rates.

As you can see, the TLD itself is the biggest variable. An .ai domain, popular with tech startups, carries a premium, while a versatile .agency can be incredibly cost-effective.

The Rise of Web3 Domains: A New Frontier

Beyond the traditional web, a new type of digital identity is emerging: the Web3 domain. Think of it as more than just a website address; it's a user-owned, blockchain-based name that can serve as your universal username, crypto wallet address, and foundation for decentralized websites.

This is where the domain name cost model changes dramatically.

Platforms like Unstoppable Domains helped pioneer this space. However, Freename is taking the next evolutionary step. While many Web3 domain providers focus only on the decentralized world, Freename bridges the gap, creating a unified ecosystem where your digital identity works seamlessly across Web2 and Web3.

The best part? With Freename, you purchase a Web3 domain with a one-time payment. There are no renewal fees, ever. You own it for life. This fundamentally changes the value equation compared to the annual fees of traditional domains.

We’ve seen this concept validated by influential figures in the tech space, such as Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin's widely known vitalik.eth address, which showcases how a simple name can replace complex cryptocurrency wallet addresses. Freename expands this concept across a huge variety of TLDs like .hodl, .wallet, and .metaverse.

Don't Forget About Domain Transfer Costs

What if you already own a domain but are unhappy with your current registrar's pricing or service? You can move it through a domain transfer. Typically, this involves a fee that also extends your domain registration by one year.

This is another area where Freename stands out. We believe you shouldn't be penalized for seeking better value. To make the switch effortless, Freename is offering a $10 credit for every domain transfer you move to our platform. We’re effectively paying you to consolidate your domains and save money in the long run.

3 Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Register a Domain Name

1. Ignoring Renewal Rates: The $1 introductory domain is tempting, but if the renewal price is $25, you've overpaid in the long run. Always check the second-year cost.
2. Not Buying Variations: If your business is mygreatbrand.com, consider also buying .co or your country’s TLD (.it, .de, etc.) to protect your brand from copycats.
3. Skipping Privacy Protection: Without WHOIS privacy, your name, email, and phone number can be publicly visible. Reputable registrars offer this protection to prevent spam and maintain your privacy.

The Bottom Line: Smart Investment, Not Just a Purchase

Choosing a domain is more than just picking a name; it's an investment in your brand's digital foundation. The right registrar offers transparent pricing for today and predictable costs for tomorrow, whether you're building a traditional website or pioneering in Web3.

Ready to claim your piece of the internet without the hidden fees?

For a limited time, Freename is making the decision easy. Get 50% off all Web3 domains and receive 2 FREE .com domains with your purchase! It’s the perfect package to secure your brand's identity for both the current and future web.