In general, you will find PC-based systems to be less expensive than expandable standalone models. You can expect to pay $5,000-$6500 for a basic four-port voice mail system with an automated attendant. Each additional port (and accompanying storage hours) will add about $1,000-$2,000 to the price tag. Expect to bargain 10%-20% off the asking price for most systems.

For companies of less than five people, buying a full-fledged voice mail system is often prohibitively expensive. However, it is possible to purchase a no-frills system that will offer individual mailboxes for under $1,000.