Web Design in 2025: Insights, Trends, and What It Means for Your Business
The web design industry has never been more dynamic. As digital landscapes shift and client expectations evolve, web designers, developers, and creative professionals are redefining what it means to build impactful online experiences. The 2025 State of the Web Design Industry Report from Squarespace Circle sheds light on the trends, tools, and strategies shaping the industry. Here’s what we at Propel Studios are taking away from this year’s findings—and what it means for businesses looking to create (or refresh) their websites.
Freelancers and Small Teams Are Thriving
Web design continues to be a freelancer-driven industry, with over two-thirds of respondents identifying as self-employed. Many work solo (60%) or in small teams of two to five (30%). At Propel Studios, we understand the power of tight-knit teams—working with an independent web designer means getting a high-touch, collaborative experience where every detail matters.
One of the most exciting insights? 40% of surveyed designers have 10+ years of experience in the field. This means clients are getting access to seasoned professionals who bring both technical expertise and creative vision to every project.
What’s Driving Revenue? Custom Websites, SEO & Ongoing Support
While custom website builds (85%) remain the core service for most web professionals, designers in 2025 are offering more than just websites. Businesses now expect ongoing support, strategic consulting, and digital optimization to stay competitive.
SEO Optimization (55%) – A great design means nothing if no one can find it. SEO has become a standard offering for web designers, ensuring businesses stay visible in search results.
Post-Launch Maintenance (55%) – Websites are not set-it-and-forget-it tools. Regular updates, security fixes, and content refreshes keep businesses ahead.
Ecommerce Setup (38%) – With online shopping at an all-time high, businesses need seamless, conversion-driven eCommerce platforms to thrive.
At Propel Studios, we see this reflected in our own work. A website isn’t just a one-time project—it’s an evolving digital asset. Businesses that invest in ongoing SEO, site maintenance, and content strategy see better long-term growth and higher conversion rates.
Ecommerce Is Growing—And So Are Website Budgets
Ecommerce site setup grew from 32% to 38% this past year, highlighting the increasing demand for online stores that are both functional and beautifully designed. At the same time, more designers are charging premium rates, with 22% earning over six figures annually.
What does this mean for businesses? The best websites aren’t just about looking good—they’re about conversion, functionality, and strategic design. Investing in a well-built ecommerce site pays off, with high-performing designs leading to increased sales and customer engagement.
AI Is Here—But It’s a Tool, Not a Replacement
Love it or hate it, AI is changing web design. Usage jumped 17% from last year, with 75% of designers now incorporating AI into their workflow. But instead of replacing creativity, AI is streamlining repetitive tasks, freeing up time for designers to focus on high-value work.
At Propel Studios, we see AI as a complement to human creativity, not a substitute. Whether it’s automating code snippets, generating content suggestions, or optimizing images, AI tools help us work more efficiently—but strategy, storytelling, and user experience still require a human touch.
Purpose-Driven Design: The Rise of Nonprofit & Community Work
For the second year in a row, community and nonprofit organizations topped the list of industries seeking web design services. Many designers are taking on pro bono projects (39%) to give back while refining their skills.
Working with mission-driven organizations is a win-win: nonprofits get a platform to amplify their cause, while designers gain creatively fulfilling work that makes a real impact. Propel Studios has long believed in using web design to support businesses and organizations that matter, and it’s inspiring to see this trend growing industry-wide.
The Bottom Line: What This Means for Your Website in 2025
Whether you’re launching a new website or revamping an existing one, quality, strategy, and ongoing support matter more than ever. The key takeaways from this year’s report?
✔ Invest in expertise – Experienced designers bring more than technical skills; they bring strategy and problem-solving.
✔ Think beyond launch day – SEO, content updates, and site maintenance are essential for long-term success.
✔ Prioritize user experience – Websites that are accessible, fast, and mobile-optimized will always outperform those that aren’t.
✔ Embrace AI wisely – Automation can enhance efficiency, but creativity and strategic design still require human insight.
Ready to Elevate Your Website? Let’s Talk.
At Propel Studios, we take these insights to heart, crafting websites that don’t just look great—but drive real results. If your business is ready for a stunning, high-performing website that captures your brand and engages your audience, let’s make it happen.
📩 Get in touch today to discuss your project and see how we can bring your vision to life.
