AI website builders reshape freelance web development

AI website builders are changing how some small businesses create websites, as freelance demand for web development has fallen sharply since 2024. The figures come from a Bluehost-commissioned survey of 201 American entrepreneurs involved in decisions about their companies’ online operations, alongside data from one freelance marketplace.

In the survey, 53% of business owners said they had adopted AI website builders instead of relying on professional developers. Among those using the tools, 85% said they would have developed their websites differently without them. Respondents reported average savings of $850 and about 32 working hours compared with hiring developers or agencies.

Marketplace listings also declined: PHP opportunities fell 59%, WordPress assignments 58% and HTML programming vacancies 55%. Those figures describe one marketplace and do not establish that AI adoption caused the declines.

Respondents were generally satisfied: 72% expressed strong approval, and 97% reported at least moderate satisfaction. Still, only 9% published their sites without changing the initial AI output; 61% revised content and 60% changed visual elements. After publication, 94% continued using AI for business activities. Of those, 34% reported more visitors and 31% reported improved sales or revenue. The survey’s sample size limits how broadly its findings can be generalized.