The short answer
Live-agent answering services typically run from about $235 to $1,160 a month for a small business, depending on call volume and add-ons. AI-based services usually fall between $25 and $300 a month.
These are market ranges gathered while researching the category, not quotes. Always check a provider's current pricing page.
“Count your missed calls for a week, then put a number on one new customer.”
What drives the price
Most live services bill per minute or per call, so busy months cost more. Extras such as appointment booking, bilingual agents or call transfers often add fees.
AI services usually bill a flat monthly plan with included minutes, which makes the cost predictable.
How to choose
Count your missed calls for a week, estimate the value of one new customer, and compare. If most calls are routine (hours, prices, booking), an AI receptionist covers them at a fraction of the cost; keep a human for sensitive conversations.
Remute has a free plan with 30 minutes a month, so you can test with real calls before paying.