A WCAG 2.1 AA audit and a WCAG 2.2 AA audit follow the same process and typically cost the same amount. Most audits start at 1,000 dollars and range to 3,000 dollars depending on the size and complexity of the site. The version of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) referenced in the audit changes which criteria are evaluated, but it does not change the price in most cases.
| Key Point | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Typical Audit Cost | 1,000 dollars to 3,000 dollars for either version |
| Scope Difference | WCAG 2.2 AA includes additional criteria beyond those in 2.1 AA |
| Backwards Compatibility | WCAG 2.2 is backwards compatible with 2.1, so a 2.2 audit covers all 2.1 criteria |
| Per-Page Pricing | 100 dollars to 250 dollars per page or screen for either version |
How WCAG Version Affects Audit Scope
WCAG 2.2 is backwards compatible with WCAG 2.1. Every criterion in 2.1 AA is also part of 2.2 AA. A WCAG 2.2 AA audit evaluates everything a 2.1 audit would, plus the additional criteria introduced in version 2.2.
Because the evaluation methodology stays the same, the version change does not add significant time to the audit. Auditors conduct screen reader testing, keyboard testing, visual inspection, and code inspection regardless of which version is referenced.
Does a WCAG 2.2 AA Audit Cost More?
In practice, most accessibility firms price WCAG 2.1 AA and 2.2 AA audits identically. The per-page rate of 100 dollars to 250 dollars applies to both. The additional criteria in 2.2 add a small amount of evaluation time, but not enough to shift the total cost for most projects.
A larger site with more pages or a web application with complex interactive components will cost more than a smaller marketing site. That is true for both versions. The number of pages and the complexity of interactions drive cost more than the WCAG version does.
Which Version Should an Audit Reference?
Organizations choosing between 2.1 AA and 2.2 AA should consider what standard applies to their situation. ADA Title II references WCAG 2.1 AA. The European Accessibility Act (EAA) references EN 301 549, which aligns with WCAG 2.1 AA. Many organizations are moving toward 2.2 AA because it is the most current version and a 2.2 audit covers all 2.1 criteria automatically.
Since pricing is comparable, referencing WCAG 2.2 AA provides the broadest conformance coverage at no additional cost.
What Drives Cost Differences Between Audits
The factors that affect audit pricing are the same for both WCAG versions. These include the number of pages or screens evaluated, whether the site includes authenticated content, the complexity of interactive elements, and how the audit report is delivered.
An audit that identifies issues across a 10-page marketing site costs less than one covering a 50-screen web application, regardless of whether it references WCAG 2.1 or 2.2.
For most organizations, the WCAG version referenced in the audit is a scope decision, not a budget decision.