How Much is a Domain Name on Shopify? A Comprehensive Guide for E-Commerce Merchants

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Domain Names: The Basics
3. How Much Does a Domain Name Cost on Shopify?
4. Buying a Domain Through Shopify: Pros and Cons
5. Connecting Third-Party Domains to Shopify
6. Hidden Costs to Watch For
7. Conclusion
8. FAQ

Introduction

Did you know that as of early 2025, there were over 364 million registered domain names globally? This staggering figure reflects just how crucial having a unique online identity has become for businesses. As we venture further into the creator economy and digital entrepreneurship, the question for e-commerce merchants is no longer simply whether they need a domain name—but rather, how much they should expect to invest in one, particularly with platforms like Shopify.

Whether you’re aiming to establish a brand or diversify your revenue streams through online courses or digital products, understanding domain name pricing is essential. Today’s merchants require not only an online storefront but also a strategic approach to their domain names, which can significantly impact their brand visibility and credibility.

At Tevello, we believe in empowering Shopify merchants with the tools they need to succeed, which includes a seamless experience in managing their domains within their Shopify environment. Our all-in-one platform integrates course management, community building, and digital product sales, helping you create a comprehensive brand presence from day one.

In this blog post, we will explore the costs associated with a domain name on Shopify, the factors that influence these costs, and how to strategically choose the right domain for your business. We will dive deep into registration and renewal fees, look at popular domain extensions, and highlight the advantages of buying through Shopify. Additionally, we will touch on the importance of combining a unique domain with your operational strategies to enhance your store’s performance.

Let’s get started—what information do you need to guide your decisions about your Shopify store and beyond?

Understanding Domain Names: The Basics

What is a Domain Name?

A domain name serves as your online address—your unique identifier on the internet. For instance, “yourstore.com” is a domain name that directs customers to your Shopify store. Much like a physical address allows customers to find a brick-and-mortar business, a domain name provides a clear route for website visitors.

Importance of a Custom Domain

While Shopify provides a free subdomain (yourstore.myshopify.com) when you first create your store, opting for a custom domain significantly elevates your brand image. Here’s why having a custom domain is essential:

• Brand Professionalism: A custom domain such as "yourbrand.com" instantly communicates authenticity and credibility, key components that foster customer trust.
• SEO Benefits: Search engines favor unique domain names, which can positively influence your store’s ranking in search results and help drive more organic traffic.
• Memorability: A simple and relevant domain name is easier for customers to remember, enhancing return visits.
• Brand Flexibility: A custom domain allows for a cohesive brand identity across various platforms, from your website to your email addresses.

How Much Does a Domain Name Cost on Shopify?

Domain Pricing Overview

The cost of a domain name on Shopify generally varies depending on several factors, including the type of domain extension you choose and whether you are purchasing a premium domain.

On average, you can expect to pay between $11 and $16 per year for standard domain extensions such as .com, .net, and .org. Here’s a breakdown of some popular domain extensions and their average costs on Shopify:

These figures highlight that while a basic domain may be relatively affordable, specific niche extensions may come at a premium.

Domain Renewal Costs

It's important to note that domain registration isn't a one-time fee; domains require annual renewals. Typically, renewal costs align closely with initial registration prices. For example, if you purchase a .com domain for $16, expect to pay a similar amount upon renewal.

Ensuring that your domain remains active is crucial for maintaining your online presence and avoiding any potential disruptions to your Shopify store. Enabling auto-renewal, when available, can help prevent accidental loss of your domain.

Factors Influencing Domain Pricing

Understanding what influences domain prices will help you make a more informed decision when selecting a domain for your Shopify store:

1. Top-Level Domain (TLD):
   • The TLD, or extension, has a significant impact on pricing. Common extensions (.com, .org) tend to be more affordable, while niche or newer extensions can sometimes carry higher costs.
2. Domain Length:
   • Shorter, memorable domain names are often more expensive. For example, car rental domains or one-word domains may command high prices due to demand and perceived value.
3. Premium Domains:
   • Domains considered "premium" due to their simplicity, popularity, or keyword relevance can vary widely in price, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
4. Registrar Choice:
   • Different registrars may offer varying pricing models. While Shopify's pricing is transparent and fixed, other registrars may have introductory offers that appear lower initially but can lead to higher renewal fees.

Example Domain Registration at Shopify

As a practical illustration, let's consider purchasing the domain "yourstore.com" directly through Shopify:

1. Visit Shopify Admin Panel: After logging into your Shopify account, navigate to Settings and click on Domains.
2. Search for Availability: Input “yourstore.com” into the search tool. If available, the system will display the purchase price.
3. Finalize Purchase: You can select auto-renewal, ensure privacy protection is included, and then proceed with payment.

You can start your 14-day free trial of Tevello today to manage your online courses and community directly on Shopify. Alongside domain management, we empower you to build a vibrant online presence.

Buying a Domain Through Shopify: Pros and Cons

Advantages of Using Shopify for Domain Purchase

Opting to buy your domain directly through Shopify comes with several benefits:

1. Seamless Integration: When you purchase a domain with Shopify, it's automatically linked to your store. You won’t need to navigate separate DNS configurations or complicated setups with third-party services.
2. Included Services: Shopify often includes WHOIS privacy protection for free, ensuring your personal contact information remains private.
3. Centralized Management: Manage your domain alongside your store configuration from one intuitive console, simplifying your operations.

Downsides of Shopify Domain Purchase

While there are numerous advantages, consider the potential downsides:

1. Limited Extension Options: Shopify primarily offers standard TLDs. If you're looking for niche or country-specific TLDs, you may need to explore alternative registrars.
2. Potential Cost Variability: Depending on the type of domain and any promotions available, Shopify’s pricing might not always be the lowest option available.

Ultimately, whether to buy through Shopify or a third-party registrar depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you value simplicity and seamless integration, Shopify's solution may be ideal.

For a detailed look at our features, explore our powerful, all-in-one feature set for course creation, communities, and digital products.

Connecting Third-Party Domains to Shopify

If you already own a domain from a different registrar, integrating it with your Shopify store is straightforward. Here's how to do it:

1. Log into Your Shopify Admin: Navigate to Settings > Domains.
2. Select ‘Connect Existing Domain’: Input your third-party domain name.
3. Adjust DNS Settings if Necessary: Follow your provider's guides to modify the DNS records as needed (e.g., updating the A record).
4. Validation: Shopify will verify the connection and confirm that your domain is ready for use.

This flexibility is particularly beneficial for enterprises with established brands.

Hidden Costs to Watch For

While looking at domain costs, there are several hidden costs that can arise:

1. Privacy Protection Fees: Some registrars charge for WHOIS privacy services, which protect your personal information. Shopify includes this for free.
2. Renewal Fee Variability: Always check renewal pricing before purchasing. Utilization of introductory offers may save money upfront but could lead to higher renewal costs.
3. Transfer Fees: Should you choose to move your domain to another registrar later on, some companies may charge a domain transfer fee.

Keeping these factors in mind will help you gauge the full cost of your domain investment.

Conclusion

Choosing a domain name for your Shopify store is a critical step that deserves thoughtful consideration. Whether you're registering for the first time, renewing, or connecting an existing domain, understanding the costs and factors involved can position your e-commerce business for long-term success.

By making solid domain choices and integrating with our robust Tevello platform, we can help you unlock new revenue streams while also building strong community ties with your audience.

If you're ready to take the next step in elevating your online store with a recognizeable domain, we invite you to start your 14-day free trial of Tevello today. Discover how we can help you harness the power of online courses and digital communities, all while smoothly managing your domain needs through Shopify.

FAQ

How much does a Shopify domain typically cost?

On average, you can expect to pay between $11 and $16 per year for a standard domain on Shopify.

What is our renewal cost for a domain purchased through Shopify?

Renewal costs generally mirror your initial registration fee. If you purchase a .com for $16, renewal would also be around $16.

Is it possible to connect a domain I bought elsewhere to my Shopify store?

Yes, Shopify allows you to connect domains purchased from third-party registrars by adjusting the DNS settings.

Why is a custom domain important for my Shopify business?

A custom domain elevates your brand’s professionalism, enhances SEO, and creates a memorable identity among your customers.

Can I purchase a domain through Shopify?

Absolutely! Shopify simplifies the purchase process, integrating directly with your store upon completion of registration.

For further assistance, see how other Shopify merchants have grown their businesses by reading our success stories. Let’s embark on this journey together!