Guide
How much does an AI receptionist cost in the UK?
6 min read · Updated 5 November 2026
AI receptionists are a fairly new service, and pricing varies widely. Some are advertised at a few pounds a month, while others cost well over £1,000. The headline price often doesn't tell the whole story.
This guide explains what UK businesses typically pay, what you get at each level, and how the cost compares with the alternatives.
Typical UK AI receptionist prices
These are typical ranges from published UK pricing in 2026. Check whether any quote includes VAT.
| Level | Typical monthly cost | What you usually get |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | Around £30–£100 | Basic call answering and messages, usually with a call limit |
| Small business | Around £100–£500 | Natural conversation, your own FAQs, lead capture and summaries |
| Managed or integrated | Around £500–£1,500 | Done-for-you setup, calendar or CRM connections, ongoing tuning |
What affects the price
- Call volume: many plans include a set number of calls or minutes
- Setup: tailoring it to your services, FAQs and how you handle calls
- Integrations: connecting to your calendar, booking system or CRM
- Voice quality: more natural voices can cost more
- Support: whether someone reviews and improves it over time
How it compares with the alternatives
The fair comparison isn't just price. A human handles complex or sensitive calls better, while an AI receptionist is available around the clock and handles routine calls consistently.
| Option | Typical cost | Worth knowing |
|---|---|---|
| Voicemail | Usually free | Many callers won't leave a message |
| AI receptionist | Around £30–£500+ a month | Available 24/7; best for routine calls and lead capture |
| Call answering service | Around £50–£500 a month | Real people, often charged by call volume |
| Part-time receptionist | Roughly £14,000–£22,000 a year | All-in employment cost estimates; limited to working hours |
Hidden costs to look out for
- Setup fees, which can range from nothing to thousands of pounds
- Charges per call or minute once you pass your plan's limit
- VAT, which isn't always included in advertised prices
- Extra charges for integrations or a UK phone number
- Minimum contract lengths and cancellation terms
How to work out if it's worth it
Start with your own numbers. Check how many calls you miss in a typical week, then think about what one new customer is worth to your business.
If capturing a single extra job a month would cover the cost, it's probably worth trying. If you rarely miss calls, it might not be. A good provider should be happy to tell you that.
Price ranges are based on published UK pricing and guides reviewed in November 2026, many written by companies that sell these services, so treat them as a guide. Employment cost estimates vary by location and role. Actual quotes vary.
Further reading: Fasthosts: how much does an AI receptionist cost?