How Much Does an SSL Certificate Cost In 2025?

Data safety and website security are crucial given the enduring threats of trojans, spyware, and what have you. So, as a website owner, you may want to consider getting a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) certificate. This indicates that the website is encrypted, which can also be verified by looking for a padlock icon in a browser’s address bar and “HTTPS” in the URL. It is important to bear in mind that the certificate will cost you, depending on the type you choose.

How Much Does an SSL Certificate Cost

The price of an SSL certificate depends on various factors, such as its type and validation process. Additionally, SSL certificates are usually issued yearly, so in most cases, you will see annual pricing models from vendors. The certificate prices can be between $5 and $1,000 per year or more, based on your chosen vendor.

You can also get free SSL certificates; however, they will only offer a basic level of security. And as with paid certificates, free ones may not include additional features or benefits.

Cost of SSL Certificate by SSL Types

There are three types of SSL certificates, each categorized by the number of domains and subdomains it secures. Usually, the more domains a certificate covers, the higher its price is.

Single-Domain SSL Certificates

This certificate secures one domain and may not always offer protection for its subdomains. This makes single-domain SSL certificates quite affordable, with an annual starting price of $5 to $8. Single-domain SSL certificates are best suited for blog sites and micro businesses.

Wildcard SSL Certificates

These certificates offer security for the main domain and its subdomains. For example, a wildcard certificate will protect example.com and its subdomains like about.example.com and contact.example.com under a single certificate. Because of this broader coverage, wildcard certificates are a tad more expensive than single-domain ones, with a starting price of around $40 per year.

Multi-Domain SSL Certificates

You need a multi-domain SSL certificate for extensive coverage. With this, you can secure multiple domains and subdomains, making it ideal for businesses managing multiple websites. You can expect a starting price of $30 per year for this certificate type.

What Affects the Price of an SSL Certificate?

Apart from the type of certificate, a handful of other factors can impact SSL certificate price.

Validation Process

This is the extent of the background check or verification a Certificate Authority (CA) performs before issuing a certificate. So, the cost of SSL certificates varies per the level of validation performed. The more detailed and thorough the validation, the higher the price.

SSL certificates are further categorized into three types.

• Domain Validation

This is a straightforward process wherein the CA verifies whether you are authorized to use the domain name. Domain validation SSL certificates are the cheapest, with a starting price of around $8 per year.

• Organization Validation

Before issuing the certificate, the CA runs a thorough background check of your organization to verify its authenticity. You may need to comply with certain guidelines and provide your business credentials, including the organization name and office address. Organization validation SSL certificates start at around $100 per year.

• Extended Validation

The validation process for this certificate is quite extensive. For instance, the CA might look into the legal registration of the business, the names of the individuals running the business, and other documentation.

Extended validation SSL certificates are quite expensive to procure, with a starting price of around $150 per year. They are more suitable for government agencies, banks, hospitals, and insurance companies.

Certificate Authority (CA)

Various CAs run a verification check for SSL certificates, and the final price depends on the CA. Usually, those who are more reliable and renowned charge more. This also means that you may have better support throughout the verification process.

Period of Validity

The duration for which you purchase an SSL certificate can affect its price. Usually, the longer validity period you choose, the costlier your certificate is. That said, some vendors offer multi-year plans at a discounted rate, which can be beneficial in the long run.

Additional Features

Some SSL certificates come bundled with extra features, such as a warranty, site seal, and malware protection, that can rack up the price. That said, these features can offer more security and improve your site’s credibility.

How Much Does an SSL Certificate Renewal Cost?

In most cases, the cost of renewing an SSL certificate is similar to purchasing a new one. However, the costs will go up if you choose more features or a multi-year plan after the expiration of your current certificate.

Which SSL Certificate Should You Choose for Your Website?

Your choice of SSL certificate should depend on the kind of website you are running and the level of security and trust you need to establish. For basic websites and personal blogs, a Single Domain SSL certificate, with Domain Validation, is sufficient. On the other hand, if you run a bigger business, especially one that handles user data, you should go for an Organization Validated (OV) or Extended Validation (EV) SSL. If you own multiple websites, you are better off with a Multi-Domain SSL certificate.

FAQs

What is the average cost of an SSL certificate?

The price of an SSL certificate depends on various factors, including the number of domains and subdomains secured, the validation process, the period of validity, and additional features, among others. Based on your choice of domain coverage and validity period, you can expect an SSL certificate to cost between $5 and $1,000 per year.

Are there free SSL certificates available?

Yes. There are a few vendors that offer free SSL certificates. However, note that these certificates only offer a basic level of protection.

Do all hosting providers include SSL certificates for free?

While not all hosting providers include SSL certificates for free, most of them do. Generally, the free certificates they offer are Domain Validated (DV) certificates for a single domain.

Can I get a discount for buying an SSL certificate for multiple years?

Yes. Many SSL vendors offer discounts when you purchase a multi-year SSL certificate. This not only helps reduce the overall cost but also saves you the hassle of annual renewals.

Is there a one-time cost or recurring fee for SSL certificates?

You can typically choose between a recurring monthly fee and an annual payment for SSL certificates. Most providers usually offer annual payment plans, especially if you are choosing a multi-year SSL certificate.