Since the actual experience of the design company, the quality of their work, and the customer service are very critical, let`s make the following assumptions:

• The company is headed by a former lead designer from Yahoo! and eBay and other web pioneers
• You will be able to include dynamic, database-driven functionality on your site, such as: maps, forums, blogging, inventory management, newsletters, coupons, etc.
• Logo design is not included, but your site will be designed to match your logo and existing brand identity
• An experienced consultant will help you figure out what kind of site will best fit your needs and budget.
  

Note: please vote for the price range that you would actually pay today for this service - not what you think it`s actually worth :-)

This would depend of course on the scope of the project. A small custom 5 page "presence " site, would be less than that of a dynamic 50 page site with other features. This also depends on what the company who is designing is bringing to the table. Lots of variables there.

I agree with stonesledge...there are lots of variables.  If my main outlet for selling a product is via ecommerce, then yes, I would spend 4k-5k...this of course I expect to include a shopping cart, visual graphics eye catching etc. etc. geared toward my market.   

A brochure type site I would pay 1-2K