I’m Eventus Offiong Okon of Taculia Designs. When most Nigerian small business owners hear about the Google Business website, their first reaction is excitement — “So Google will give me a free website?” Before you jump in, let’s break down what this service really is, what it can and cannot do, and whether it’s the right option for your business in 2026.
Is Google Business Website Free?
Yes — the Google Business website is 100% free. But it comes with major limitations you must understand before depending on it as your main business website.
The Google Business website is an auto-generated one-page site created from the information on your Google Business Profile. It’s useful, but not for everyone. Below I explain what it is, why it’s free, its limits, and when you should choose a proper hosted website instead.
What Exactly Is the Google Business Website?
The Google Business website (formerly part of Google My Business) is a simple auto-built webpage created from your Google Business Profile details — business name, photos, opening hours, reviews, services and location. You don’t design it manually, install plugins, or customize it like a full website. It’s a lightweight online presence for businesses that don’t have a website yet, and it usually uses a Google subdomain like yourbusinessname.business.site.
Why Is It Free?
Google created this feature to help small businesses get online without the cost of hosting and web design. It’s free because it enhances Google’s local search ecosystem and helps Google collect accurate local business data. You don’t pay for hosting or a domain for the basic site, but you also get very limited control.
Major Limitations of the Google Business Website
It’s Only One Page
You cannot create separate About pages, a blog, multiple service pages, a portfolio, or advanced landing pages. The site remains a single auto-generated page based on your profile.
Poor SEO Capabilities
Google uses it mainly for local visibility, not for broad SEO ranking. If your goal is to rank for competitive keywords or to publish content that attracts organic traffic, this one-page solution will fall short.
No Custom Features or Plugins
You cannot install plugins, add forms, set up payment gateways, integrate advanced analytics, or apply complex design changes. You get what Google provides — limited flexibility.
Control Is in Google’s Hands
Google can change, limit, or discontinue features at any time. If Google retires the product or changes how it works, your site may be affected. You don’t have the same ownership or permanence as a self-hosted site.
Weak Branding
Your URL will look like yourbusinessname.business.site, which does not convey the same level of professionalism as a custom domain like yourbusinessname.com.ng. For premium clients and serious brands, this matters.
Who Should Use the Free Google Business Website?
It’s useful for:
- New micro businesses with no budget for hosting
- Brick-and-mortar shops that only need a basic online listing
- People who want a quick, no-cost online presence while they plan a proper website
- Businesses focused purely on local map visibility
It’s not suitable for:
- Brands that want to scale online
- E-commerce businesses
- Content creators and bloggers
- Businesses that need advanced features, SEO, or custom branding
Google Business Website vs a Real Website — Side-by-Side
| Feature | Google Business Website | Real Website (Self-hosted) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Hosting + domain (affordable) |
| Pages | One page | Unlimited |
| SEO | Very limited | Strong SEO potential |
| Customization | None | Full control |
| Branding | Weak | Strong |
| Control | Google controls it | You own it |
Why a Real Website Is Better for Nigerian Businesses in 2026
Nigerian customers search online first. A real website gives you:
- Full control over branding and content
- Better search engine visibility and ability to rank for keywords
- Professional credibility that converts customers
- E-commerce and payment integrations
- Analytics and marketing integrations
If you want to build a long-term digital presence and grow, a self-hosted website (for example a WordPress site) is the proper foundation.
How to Get a Professional Website in Nigeria — Fast & Affordable
A real website doesn’t have to be expensive. Typical small-business setup includes:
- Domain (e.g., yourbusiness.com.ng)
- Affordable hosting (local or global)
- WordPress + a lightweight theme
- Basic SEO and Google Business Profile connection
If you want a quick primer about hosting and what it does, this guide is helpful: What Is Web Hosting (Hostinger Guide).
Practical Recommendation
Use the Google Business website only as a temporary, free option while you plan a proper website. If you want credibility, control, and the ability to scale, invest in a self-hosted site with your own domain. The investment pays off quickly because of better trust and discoverability.
Internal Links — Read Next
- The Best Website for Small Businesses in 2026
- Can You Host a Website on Your Phone?
- How to Create a Website With Your Phone
- Understanding How Websites Work
Final Thoughts
The Google Business website is a useful free tool for micro businesses needing a basic online presence. But it should not be your main website if you want to grow, rank, or build a serious brand. Use it as a bridge, not a destination. For long-term success in 2026 and beyond, invest in a proper, self-hosted website that you own and control.
If you want help deciding the best path for your business — whether that’s a quick Google Business site to start or a full custom website — contact us at Taculia Designs and we’ll walk you through the right choice for your goals.