Looking for a Cost-Effective Architecture for Auction Website (High Firebase Realtime DB Costs)

Google Cloud Compute Infrastructure
1

I’m running an auction website, somewhat similar to eBay, with around 20 active users at any given time and a catalog of approximately 10,000 products.

Here’s my current setup:

  • Backend(Strapi) + Database (postgres): Google Compute Engine

  • Frontend: Next.js hosted on Cloud Run

  • Bidding Logic: Firebase Realtime Database for real-time auction updates

  • Sync: Google Cloud Functions sync Firebase updates to the main database

While the performance has been great, I’m currently spending ₹3000+ per day just on Firebase Realtime Database, which is becoming unsustainable.

I’m looking for suggestions on how to restructure or re-architect this setup to reduce costs without sacrificing performance or real-time updates.

Any input or shared experience would be appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

2

Hi @kaushikd ,

Welcome to the Google Cloud Community!

Thanks for sharing your current cloud architecture. I understand that optimizing costs is your primary goal at this scale.

Here are a few suggestions that may help. First, I recommend reviewing your Cloud Billing Reports to identify which products are contributing most to your daily spend. We can then decide on where to optimize or replace services. For example, if Google Compute Engine is your top cost driver, consider more sustainable backend alternatives like Cloud Run, App Engine or other Hosting options on GCP.

For broader cost-saving strategies, check out the GCP Cost Optimization Guide or explore Committed Use Discounts. You can also browse pre-built Cloud solution templates and reference architectures to better align your infrastructure with your use case.

To dive deeper into compute and database choices, these videos can be helpful:

For hands-on learning, the Cloud Skills Boost course on cost optimization is worth checking out. You might also find helpful tips in this Reddit thread on GCP cost optimization and this article on GCP cost management best practices by Adarsh Rai. Finally, don’t hesitate to contact the Google Cloud Sales team or find a Cloud Solutions Partner for personalized guidance tailored to your workload.

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