10 Best MySQL Database Hosting Services (CHEAP) in 2024

Because MySQL is an open-source database management system, you might think cheap MySQL hosting is the norm. However, hosting is far more than software management. It requires advanced infrastructure – including data centers, server hardware, and technicians – to keep things running smoothly.

MySQL hosts can store text-based data for your CMS at a low price. However, they may neglect the optimization or maintenance of the database storage server to accommodate that low price. Your websites would then suffer from slow loading speeds and even downtime.

Other hosts make you pay for a bunch of extra features you don’t necessarily need and then “cheap hosting” suddenly doesn’t seem so cheap anymore. On the other hand, some costlier hosts offer less value than more affordable options. The good news is that there are some excellent and budget-friendly options out there.

I’ve scoured the ends of the world wide web for the best MySQL hosting. My top recommendation is Kamatera, which offers unparalleled server flexibility at very affordable rates. We’ve also found nine other hosting providers that offer standout services for MySQL databases – keep reading to learn all about them.

What We Look For in the Best Cheap MySQL Hosting Services

MySQL databases are offered as part of almost every shared hosting plan, but a low price alone was not enough to get on our list. The MySQL hosts we’re recommending are more than just affordable. They provide:

• Fast and reliable performance. Quality database hosting should come with near-perfect uptime and consistently quick loading speeds. We looked for powerful hosting that didn’t neglect database server performance.
• Easy DB management. The hosts on our list keep day-to-day MySQL management straightforward and efficient. You’ll be able to take advantage of user-friendly control panels and phpMyAdmin to create, optimize, and query your databases.
• Auto-installers. If you’re planning on installing WordPress or another CMS alongside your MySQL database, you can save a lot of time by using a one-click auto-installer. We chose hosts that offered easy and automatic DB creation and connection for a selection of the most popular CMSs.
• Quality extras. The best database hosts don’t skimp on useful features, even if their prices are affordable. Whether it’s an SSL security certificate, 24/7 support, or a CDN, these hosts all provide something extra.
• Storage space. Your MySQL database might not be composed of files, but all those rows and columns do take up storage space. This all counts toward your storage limits, so we looked for hosts that provided generous disk space.

1. Kamatera: Flexible Cloud Hosting With Instant MySQL Installation1

Kamatera is by far one of the cheapest and most customizable cloud VPS hosting providers out there. Thanks to the power of cloud hosting, you’ll be able to set up the exact resource limits you need for any given project. You can choose up to 104 vCPU processors, 512 GB of RAM, and 16 TB of SSD storage for your server, so regardless of the size of your database, Kamatera can handle it and deliver consistently outstanding performance.

Beyond that, Kamatera comes with one-click MySQL server-image installation, and tons of reliability features like load balancing, daily backups (for a fee), and full-system recovery. You can also upgrade or downgrade your resources at any time. This means you’ll never have to pay extra ahead of time for fear of running out of space.

So, what’s the catch? Well, Kamatera could be the perfect choice for MySQL hosting… If you already know your way around a server. Unfortunately, Kamatera’s extreme level of customization comes at the cost of user-friendliness. If you’re willing to give it a chance, however, it could mean an unparalleled level of control over your hosting.

You don’t have to make any commitments right away, either. Kamatera offers a 30-day free trial to let you decide if it’s the right hosting provider for you.

Features

• Instant MySQL deployment. You can automatically deploy MySQL server version 8.0 if you choose Ubuntu Server 20.04 or 18.04 as your server operating system (OS). Version 5.7 is also available if you choose Ubuntu Server 18.04.
• Remote desktop images. If you want a more familiar interface for managing your server, you can install an Ubuntu or Windows 10 desktop OS on your server.
• Global data servers. Kamatera offers a bigger number of global data centers than any other host on this list, ensuring top-notch performance around the globe.
• Managed options. If you want all the convenience of a cloud service without dealing with all the technical stuff, Kamatera offers fully managed options for an extra fee.

Check out our in-depth Kamatera review for more on plan resources.

2. IONOS: Unlimited MySQL Databases Available for a Big Discount1

If you’re running a project that requires unlimited databases and unlimited sites, IONOS is your cheapest option. The mid-tier Plus shared hosting often comes with a significant discount if you’re a new customer. This plan, along with IONOS’ cloud, VPS, and dedicated hosting packages, all support MySQL.

Every MySQL database you create can have up to 2 GB of space so depending on your project, it may be plenty of space or just too limited. You can temporarily or permanently scale up your plan’s performance tier, though this does incur a fee. There are five performance levels to choose from – higher levels increase your available RAM, simultaneous PHP processes, and more.

It’s important to note that IONOS creates a MariaDB database by default during your initial plan setup, but don’t worry – MariaDB is backwards-compatible with MySQL, can be used for the same purposes, and generally performs better. You can also opt for a MySQL database if you prefer.

Features

• Dedicated personal support. IONOS assigns every customer their very own support advisor. All your support queries will go through this advisor (when they are available). They provide help and advice tailored to your particular needs.
• Easy-to-use proprietary control panel. The IONOS control panel offers an intuitive interface, making it easy to manage your websites and databases. Creating and configuring a new MySQL database takes just a few clicks.
• Automatic daily backups. Your website files and databases will be backed up daily. Your last six days of backups are always available for restoration.
• Manage hosting on the go. IONOS offers a mobile app that allows you to manage your hosting, monitor performance, and even contact support.

To learn more, read our comprehensive IONOS review.

3. Hostinger: Affordable Self-Managed MySQL Hosting1

Hostinger’s reliable performance and affordable plans make it a great option if you’re looking for a budget MySQL hosting provider. Hostinger also happens to be one of the most user-friendly hosts on this list, so if you’re new to MySQL or web hosting in general, this is a great place to start.

Hostinger’s web hosting plans support MySQL databases. In fact, you can create an unlimited number of databases on all shared hosting plans. And you can do it all directly via Hostinger’s user-friendly hPanel, which includes tools to create and manage MySQL databases.

That said, database limits are low, with a maximum of 3 GB per database on shared plans and 6 GB for cloud plans. Backup and database connection limitations are also in place, varying from 5-46 GB for backups and 50-150 connections, depending on the hosting type and plan. I’d recommend Hostinger’s MySQL hosting for reliable small-scale WordPress or Drupal hosting and low-traffic Magento or WooCommerce online stores.

Features

• Easy-to-use proprietary control panel. Many hosts don’t offer a full control panel, forcing you to pay extra for a third-party one. Instead, Hostinger’s in-house hPanel is included free with all its hosting plans.
• Eco-friendly data centers. Hostinger’s data centers in Phoenix (USA), Lithuania, UK, Brazil, and France run on renewable energy.
• Generous website quotas. On Hostinger’s shared hosting plans, you can create anywhere from 100 to 300 websites, depending on your plan. All Hostinger cloud hosting plans allow for up to 300 websites by default.
• Affordable cloud hosting for beginners. Hostinger’s cloud hosting plans come with all the features you’d expect from shared hosting, including hPanel and one-click installers. You’ll also benefit from superior performance with HTTP/3 for faster connections and a dedicated IP address – all without having to set it up yourself.

Read our detailed Hostinger review to see more features.

4. ScalaHosting: Flexible Remote Backup Solution Protects Your Crucial MySQL Databases1

Losing crucial database information to a simple hardware or software failure can absolutely devastate your website or app. Thankfully, ScalaHosting offers daily automatic remote backups. You can restore these backups at any time through your control panel – either fully or partially by selecting databases or files. You’ll also get unlimited MySQL databases, which gives you flexibility for projects of any size.

Your backups reside on external hard drives that are kept in a redundant RAID configuration. This means multiple hard drivers mirrored your data so that even if one fails, your data will be safe on another.

My only concern is that ScalaHosting doesn’t include its proprietary malware blocking and monitoring service in the entry-level shared hosting plan. While you can still request support to perform free security scans of your account, this is time-consuming and not nearly as effective.

Features

• NVMe SSD storage. You’ll benefit from the increased performance of NVMe SSD drives at no extra cost. These offer much faster read and write speeds than regular SSDs.
• Softaculous auto-installer. In addition to the popular and user-friendly cPanel control panel, ScalaHosting includes Softaculous for free. This offers one-click installations for 450+ apps, including various CMS and MySQL database management tools.
• Free hands-on migration. ScalaHosting’s expert support will migrate your MySQL databases and websites from another host, free of charge. Your site will suffer no downtime and support will ensure your site is fully functional after the move.
• Anytime money-back guarantee. In addition to an industry-standard 30-day money-back guarantee, ScalaHosting also offers prorated refunds for cancellations outside this period. This means you can cancel six months into a 36-month contract and get a refund for the unused service.

Want more details? Our expert ScalaHosting review has them.

5. InterServer: No-Commitment Monthly Hosting With Robust Security1

InterServer tries to entice you to sign up long-term for a lower monthly rate, just like many of the hosts above. However, InterServer’s monthly rate is lower than the renewal rates of most of its competitors, making it a good bet for commitment-free value.

What interested me further about InterServer was its focus on security. Every customer gets the InterShield security solution, which combines an AI-driven firewall, an in-house malware database, and an automatic virus scanner. If you’re using MySQL databases to store sensitive data, all of the above security measures are absolutely critical.

InterServer also promises to restore your websites or databases for free if they are ever compromised. It will even investigate why the problem occurred and fix any vulnerabilities found in the process.

The only downside is that InterServer’s data centers are located only in the US, so performance tends to be slightly disappointing in other countries.

Features

• Unlimited MySQL databases. Despite the low monthly price, InterServer includes unlimited databases, websites, email accounts, storage, and traffic. You’ll have plenty of room to grow.
• Affordable VPS plans. If you’re looking to create a customized MySQL project and require complete control, you’ll need a VPS. VPS plans with InterServer are not only affordable, but also include a premium license for the Webuzo control panel.
• Free Cloudflare CDN integration. Dynamic sites with constant updates will not experience much of a difference in performance, but for mostly static sites a CDN can improve global loading times dramatically.
• Free site restoration. If your sites or databases are ever compromised, InterServer’s support will restore your infrastructure to its original state. They’ll also investigate the vulnerability used in the attack and patch it so that it will not reoccur.

For more on InterServer, take a look at our in-depth review.

6. InMotion Hosting: Best MySQL Database Performance1

If your databases are running into performance issues, InMotion Hosting may have your answer. InMotion Hosting’s NVMe SSD drives can increase the speed of your databases significantly, by delivering higher input/output per second than traditional SSD. You’ll also benefit from markedly lower latency.

While this hardware is usually locked to premium plans with other hosts (if they offer it at all), InMotion Hosting offers NVMe SSDs at budget prices. These aren’t available with the entry-level plan, but if you opt for the next plan upgrade, the Launch plan offers unlimited NVMe SSD storage, MySQL databases, and websites for only a slight increase in price.

InMotion Hosting is more expensive than the other providers above – especially after renewal. Still, you aren’t going to find NVMe SSD storage for a lower price, and it can bring great benefits to projects and sites that rely on database performance, like online stores.

Features

• Developer-friendly. You’ll have SSH and FTP access, Git integration, and easy access to frameworks for Python, Ruby, Node.JS, and more.
• Free domain name. In the Launch plan and up, InMotion Hosting will cover your domain name registration costs for the first year of hosting. To access this offer, register a new domain name with InMotion Hosting or transfer an existing one.
• Bonus advertising credits. All plans offer $100 in free Microsoft advertising credits, helping your site gain visibility online. It’s not a huge amount, but it’s enough to get a new website off the ground.
• 90-day money-back guarantee. With a guarantee period three times the industry standard, you’ll be able to test-drive your hosting for a long time and still get a complete refund if you decide to cancel. Dedicated and monthly VPS plans offer a 30-day guarantee.

Want to know more? Head on over to our InMotion Hosting review.

Other Notable MySQL Hosting Services

7. SiteGround1

If you’re new to MySQL-based websites, SiteGround offers a beginner-friendly environment. Its proprietary control panel is intuitive and easy to navigate – and best of all, it makes database creation easy. This is further amplified by automatic daily backups. If you make a critical mistake, it’s easy to roll back your changes. SiteGround’s support team will also help you set up and configure MySQL databases. 

That said, SiteGround’s plans are rather expensive upon renewal, despite being tight on storage. While you technically have unlimited MySQL databases, you’ll have to work within the restrictions of these storage limits.

8. Hostwinds1

What makes Hostwinds interesting is its potential for performance.  If you have the technical knowledge to thoroughly optimize your databases and any associated sites, Hostwinds can provide impressive website performance – potentially better than any other host on this list.

Unfortunately, if you don’t invest time in optimizing your database-driven site, you may experience underwhelming loading speeds. Hostwinds is a DIY solution that will be more beneficial for seasoned web developers. That said, if you have the technical aptitude and the time, it does have pretty decent prices.

9. A2 Hosting1

A2 Hosting stands out with a wide variety of plans. Notably, it offers a selection of plans dedicated to MySQL database hosting. It also delivers some handy in-server optimization thanks to its “Turbo Servers,” which use LiteSpeed web server tech and several caching solutions to deliver consistently good performance and uptime scores.

A2 isn’t the best when it comes to customer support, and it isn’t quite as budget-friendly as some others on this list. But if you’re looking for solid performance and MySQL-focused plans, it’s a pretty good option.

10. FastComet1

FastComet is one of the few hosts to offer shared cloud hosting. This essentially means that you get the flexible performance of cloud hosting at shared hosting rates. Besides that, FastComet offers a friendly user interface, strong security tools, and a variety of bundled services.

FastComet doesn’t offer any specific plans for MySQL hosting. However, FastComet’s standard shared cloud plans do support MySQL databases, although you’ll have to look at the more expensive Turbo plans in order to get unlimited databases.

The Best MySQL Hosting Can Be Cheap and Still Deliver Results

While looking solely at the price tag might be your first impulse, you should make sure to take other factors into consideration to ensure you get the highest-quality database hosting.

The list we curated offers a wide range of options for hosting providers that combine quality hosting, strong infrastructure, and a variety of tools to ensure that your hosting caters to your needs.

If you want full control over your server, then Kamatera is the choice for you1. It offers an incredible amount of resources, instant MySQL deployment, and tons of reliability features.

If you’d prefer unlimited databases without having to pay a premium, try IONOS1. It offers the absolute lowest starting price along with unlimited storage. You won’t have to worry about hitting any limits.

For similar affordability but more user-friendliness, opt for Hostinger1. Its pricing, features, friendly customer support, and easy-to-use in-house control panel are great for beginners.

Still unsure? The comparison table below may help you reach a decision.

FAQ

Is there any free MySQL hosting available?

Free hosting services exist, and some even provide free MySQL hosting. That being said, I recommend that you avoid them. Free MySQL hosting is low on resources, resulting in slow (or even unresponsive) websites. It’s also rarely secure, making your website an easy target for online attackers. It’s better to skip free hosting altogether, and instead choose a quality budget shared hosting plan.

Which MySQL host is the fastest?

If you’re keeping to a budget, Kamatera offers outstanding server customization. It can also provide incredible performance thanks to its scalable resources, and its NVMe SSD technology can make a real difference.

Which MySQL host is the most secure?

By combining a proactive approach and multiple security layers, all the providers on this list have proven to be worthy of your trust. However, ScalaHosting’s redundant configuration and free daily backups ensure your MySQL data will be safe. Keep in mind, however, that its (top-notch) proprietary malware blocking is not available on the entry-level plan.

Which MySQL host is best for me?

It depends on your particular needs and budget. I’d recommend comparing all the above hosts to find the solution that best suits your project. If you don’t find anything that really works in this article, you may want to try our list of the top ten web hosts in 2024 for more suggestions.