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Custom WordPress plugin development: options, costs and process

April 14, 2026·VirtuoLab

Why a custom WordPress plugin?

WordPress powers more than 40% of all websites worldwide. But off-the-shelf plugins don't always do what you need. A custom plugin solves that.

When do you need a custom plugin?

Existing plugins lack specific functionality
You want to automate business processes inside WordPress
You need a connection to external systems (CRM, ERP, payment providers)
You want a unique feature your competitors don't have
Existing plugins cause performance problems

What can a custom plugin do?

The possibilities are practically unlimited:

Custom post types and taxonomies for unique content
API integrations with Mollie, Exact, Mailchimp and others
Automations — workflows, emails, reporting
User portals with their own dashboards
WooCommerce extensions for custom checkout, shipping or price calculations
Gutenberg blocks for custom content elements

The cost of a WordPress plugin

ComplexityCostLead time
Simple plugin€2,000 – €5,0001-3 weeks
Mid-sized plugin€5,000 – €10,0003-6 weeks
Complex plugin€10,000 – €25,0006-12 weeks

The development process

1Intake — we discuss your wishes and requirements
2Specification — technical design and functional document
3Development — built in PHP, JavaScript, REST API
4Testing — compatibility with WordPress core and popular plugins
5Delivery — installation, documentation and handover

Get in touch for a no-obligation quote.

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