Hosting MySQL on AWS primarily involves using Amazon RDS (Relational Database Service), which provides a scalable and managed MySQL database service. The cost for using RDS depends on multiple factors such as the instance type, storage requirements, data transfer, and additional features like automated backups or multi-AZ deployments. For instance, as of October 2023, the on-demand pricing for a db.t3.micro instance (suitable for small applications) starts around $0.018 per hour. If you intend to utilize the General Purpose (SSD) storage type, it costs approximately $0.10 per GB per month. Keep in mind that the pricing can vary based on the chosen AWS region, so it’s important to check the AWS Pricing Calculator for precise estimations related to your specific needs.

Additionally, it’s vital to factor in the potential costs of I/O requests and outbound data transfer. While inbound data transfers are generally free, outgoing data beyond the first GB can incur charges starting at around $0.09 per GB. For applications with higher traffic, this can add up quickly. AWS also offers Reserved Instances which could significantly lower costs for long-term usage. For serious applications, consider exploring options such as Amazon Aurora, which is a well-optimized MySQL-compatible database engine that can inherently handle higher throughput but comes at a slightly elevated cost. Overall, the price tag for hosting MySQL on AWS can range from minimal expenditure for smaller usage scenarios to several hundred dollars per month for more extensive and robust applications.