What Is a Premium Domain?
You may have noticed that some unregistered domains are priced at a higher rate than what's listed on our Domains page. These higher-priced domains are known as premium domains (or “registry premium” domains). Registry premium domains are displayed in the search results with the phrase “premium registration” shown underneath the price.
Premium domains vs. General Availability domains
The vast majority of domains are considered non-premium (sometimes called "GA" or General Availability), so the price listed on our Porkbun Domain Pricing page is what you can expect to pay at checkout.
However, most registries (the companies that own a particular domain extension) maintain a list of high-value keywords they’ve classified as premium terms. This means that when you register, transfer, or renew a domain containing one of those terms, the registry charges us a higher-than-usual cost that we must pass on to you. These make up premium domains and are often highly-competitive for branding, SEO, and other purposes.
Note
Keep in mind that domain registrations are subject to change at any time, and may be part of a special first-year sale. See our guide for how to check domain renewal prices for continuing ownership of your domain.
What terms are considered premium?
Premium domain terms vary by registry. Common first and last names, short words, and short numbers are more likely to be flagged as premium by a registry. Combinations of first and last names, less-common words, word combinations, and larger numbers more frequently fall under non-premium, or GA.
How much do premium domains cost?
Depending on the perceived value of a given term, a registry may charge more or less. You may end up paying anywhere from a few extra bucks per year to thousands of dollars for certain desirable domain names. This is at the discretion of the registry.
Please note that some premium domains have a high initial price but renew at a low, non-premium ("GA") price, while others renew at a higher price on an ongoing basis. Be sure to check the projected renewal price (displayed at checkout) before you register a premium domain name.
More FAQs About “What Is a Premium Domain?”
What is a premium domain?
A premium domain is a high-value domain name that costs more than standard registration prices. Registries classify certain desirable keywords as premium and charge higher fees for registration, transfer, and renewal. Premium domains appear in search results with "premium registration" shown under the price.
Why do premium domains cost more?
Registries own domain extensions and maintain lists of valuable keywords they consider premium terms. When you register these domains, the registry charges higher wholesale costs that must be passed on to customers. Premium domains are often highly competitive for branding and SEO purposes.
What types of domain names are considered premium?
Common first and last names, short words, and short numbers are typically flagged as premium. For example, "smith.example" or "30.example" would be premium, while "jessicasmith.example" or "30001.example" would likely be standard pricing. It varies by registry.
How can I tell if a domain is premium before buying?
Premium domains are clearly marked in search results with "premium registration" displayed underneath the price. The checkout page shows both the initial registration cost and the projected renewal price so you know exactly what you'll pay long-term.