I've been reading that in the year 2026, long-form content is making a comeback! Woo Hoo!
So, think of platforms like Blogs, YouTube, streaming services, and writing platforms like Substack and Medium.
People are tired of scrolling on social media; it doesn't make you feel good; it makes you feel soulless.
And with the world of AI, you don't even know what you're viewing is real or fake.
So, I'm happy that people are getting back to basics and building a community outside social media.
Do note: Blogging will be your best option because you own your website, not like other long-form platforms. Never build on borrowed land!
I have been blogging since 2008 (Product Review Mom started in 2012), and it has brought me so much in my life, including the ability to make a living blogging and the friendships I have made.
I don't know where I would be without this little side of the Internet.
Are you tired of all the mindless scrolling, too, and want to present something useful, whether it is sharing about your hobbies, starting a business, or even sharing your views about products you use?
Creating a blog is a great place to start.
It doesn't cost much to get started, and you don't need technical coding skills, since it's now easy to whip up a blog or website in just a few minutes.
How Much Does It Cost to Start a Blog in 2026?
Now, this is the important part. What will be your cost to start blogging?
Starting a blog can be pretty affordable, especially if you're just getting your feet wet. Here's a breakdown of the potential costs involved:
1. Domain Name
A domain name typically costs around $10 to $20 per year. This is your blog's web address (like www.productreviewmom.com).
2. Web Hosting
Hosting can range from $3 to $10 per month for basic plans. Some popular providers include Bluehost, Squarespace, and StellarWP.
3. Website Theme
If you choose a free theme, you won't incur any costs here. However, premium themes can cost between $30 to $100 as a one-time payment.
4. Plugins and Tools
While many plugins are free, some premium ones might cost around $50 to $300, depending on their features.
5. Content Creation
If you're writing your own content, this won't cost anything, just your time and commitment.
6. Marketing and Promotion
This can start low if you're leveraging social media and SEO strategies, but you might spend anywhere from $50 to $500 or more for paid advertising or promoted posts.
7. Miscellaneous
You might want to consider design services, logo creation, or even courses to enhance your blog, which can add additional costs if you choose.
In total, you could potentially start a blog for as little as $20 (basic hosting and a domain) to $500 or more if you opt for premium services and features. It all depends on how much you're willing to invest in your blogging journey.
Beginner-Friendly Blogging Platforms to Start With
I have mentioned above a few blog platforms to join, but here's more about them and others:
To get started, sign up with one of these beginner-friendly blogging platforms
Squarespace
Squarespace is an excellent platform for blogging, particularly for beginners. Its user-friendly interface lets you create a professional-looking blog without coding skills.
With a range of beautifully designed templates, you can easily customize your site to reflect your personal style.
Squarespace also offers built-in SEO tools and analytics to help you track your blog's performance, making it easier for beginners to understand and grow their audience.
Plus, their 24/7 customer support ensures that you have help whenever you need it, making the blogging experience smoother and more accessible.
BlueHost
Joining Bluehost is a wise decision for anyone looking to create a website or blog.
With its user-friendly interface, affordable hosting plans, and a free domain for the first year, Bluehost offers an accessible starting point for beginners.
Plus, it's officially recommended by WordPress, ensuring optimized site performance.
You'll also benefit from 24/7 customer support and a wealth of resources to guide you on your journey.
Whether you're launching a personal blog or a business website, Bluehost provides the tools and support you need to succeed online.
Liquid Web
Liquid Web provides a variety of managed hosting solutions tailored to different needs, including WordPress and WooCommerce hosting, which are perfect for those starting out.
With robust security features, automatic backups, and a 99.999% uptime guarantee, you can rest assured that your site will be reliable and secure.
Joining Liquid Web gives you access to a wealth of resources, tutorials, and community support, making it a great launchpad for your blog or website.
StellarWP
StellarWP offers blogger-friendly hosting with a suite of tools to enhance the blogging experience.
With user-friendly interfaces, easy integration with popular platforms, and seamless management features, bloggers can effortlessly customize their sites.
Additionally, StellarWP offers robust support and resources that empower bloggers to optimize their content and maximize engagement, ensuring a smooth journey from setup to publishing.
How to Make Money Blogging in 2026 (Yes, It's Still Possible)
Make sure to pick a niche of what you want to blog about, and stay consistent with it.
Find like-minded people who would love to read what you blog about and build a community.
You can start monetizing it and make some money from it, as well. And if you stick with it, you can even make a living from it, and I know, because I do!
Here are several ways to make money blogging:
1. Affiliate Marketing
Promote products or services through unique affiliate links. When your readers make a purchase through your link, you earn a commission. This is my main money-maker. For beginners, I recommend Amazon Affiliate Program, Impact, Awin, and BrandCycle.
2. Sponsored Posts
Collaborate with brands to write posts that feature their products or services.
Companies typically pay for these sponsored posts to reach your audience. This is my 2nd money-maker.
Reach out to the brands you want to work with, and if you have traffic, brands will take notice and start reaching out to you.
3. Ad Revenue
Use ad networks like Mediavine, Google Adsense, and Raptive to display ads on your blog. You earn money based on clicks or impressions from these ads.
I used to have ads on my blog, but they started to look cluttered and detracted from my readers' experience.
I recommend using this option only if your blog is strictly informational.
4. Selling Digital Products
Create and sell digital products like ebooks, printables, online courses, or stock photos directly through your blog.
Years ago, I created an ebook about how to make an income blogging.
5. Membership Programs
Offer exclusive content or perks to members who pay a subscription fee. Platforms like Patreon can help facilitate this.
6. Coaching or Consulting Services
If you have expertise in a particular area, offer coaching or consulting services to your readers.
7. Online Workshops and Webinars
Host live workshops or webinars on topics related to your blog. Charge participants a fee to attend.
8. Physical Products
Sell merchandise or physical products related to your blog's niche, either through your own store or platforms like Etsy.
9. Writing and Freelance Opportunities
Use your blog as a portfolio to attract freelance writing gigs or content creation jobs.
10. Email Marketing
Build an email list and monetize it by promoting your products or affiliate links through newsletters. What I use for email for this blog is Follow.it.
11. Networking with Other Bloggers
Collaborate with other bloggers to open new revenue streams through cross-promotions.
Make 2026 the Year You Start Your Blog
By diversifying your income streams with any of these options, you can create a more sustainable and profitable blogging experience.
Make 2026 the best year yet by starting a blog!
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Let me know if you will be starting a new blog this year in the comments below.
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