It is important to understand the costs of building an app. Clients ask this most common question when they approach us to discuss an app idea.
A mobile app can cost anywhere from $40,000 to $150,000, and sometimes it may exceed $300,000. This is a tentative estimate, as many factors such as app type, functionality and complexity, chosen vendor and development approach can influence it. What is the cost of developing an application? Take a cup of coffee and continue reading to find out the concrete cost of developing an app.
Businesses can build stronger customer relationships with mobile apps. They offer personalized user experiences and better analytics feedback loops. It's easy to see why many businesses are looking to bring their services to mobile devices. How much does it cost for a mobile app to be built?
Clutch found that the minimum app development project cost was between $5,000 and $10,000. However, these starter projects are only for the discovery phase. However, the actual costs of app development are higher at $171,450. Another study estimates that a basic app will cost between $40,000 and $60,000. In comparison, a middle-complexity app will cost between $61,000 and $69,000, while a feature-rich app will cost between $70,000 and $100,000.
Although it would be nice to have a single number, the reality is that the cost of building a mobile application can vary depending on many factors. We'll look at the cost factors involved in building a mobile application.
How to Estimate the Price of Creating a Mobile Application
The rates that your developers charge for developing mobile apps can generally be used to calculate the cost of developing an app. This means that a project that requires 500 hours of developer time at $50 an hour would cost $25,000 to develop.
It is difficult to predict how long it will take for a top app development company to create an app. This depends on the features you have and how complex your app is. Here are some ways to estimate the cost of creating a mobile application.
- Expertise, experience, and rates for app developers
- iOS vs. Android
- Mobile app development technologies
- Mobile app features
- Additional talent needs
- Expertise, experience, and rates for app developers
Experience and price are often linked when it comes to the hiring of mobile app developers. Your startup might need the right mix of experience and price to create the next Uber or WhatsApp.
- Beginning developers: Entry-level developers are available for $30 an hour. They can assist with app maintenance, debugging, code documentation, and simple feature request if you're willing to train them.
- Intermediate developers: At $60 an hour, intermediate developers provide the expertise required to complete most app design projects.
- Senior developers: Senior developers are available to lead your app development projects and implement advanced features.
Mobile Developers Typically Charge a Range of Rates
Experience is not the only factor that affects rates. Expertise refers to the technologies an app developer can use.
Hourly Rate for iOS Developers: $45-$75
iOS developers have more than just the basics of Objective C and/or Swift and the Xcode IDE. They also know one or more frameworks and APIs such as Foundation, UIKit and Cocoa. Some skills include knowledge of bug-tracking systems like Bugzilla and dependency management tools like CocoaPods. Version control with GitHub is another technology that can be used to demonstrate experience working with project teams.
Android Developer: Hourly Rate $25-$85+
Android developers might be proficient in one or more frameworks, such as Corona, Ionic, or Material Foundation, beyond the basics of Java, Android SDK and the Android Studio IDE. Working in teams requires familiarity with bug-tracking systems such as Jira and dependency management tools such as Gradle. Version control with GitHub is also a common technology.
Hourly Rate for React Native Developers: $25-$70+
React Native is a JavaScript framework that allows the cross-platform development of mobile apps using web technologies such as HTML, JavaScript, and CSS. React Native developers can help you create native-performing modular UI components for iOS and Android. This will reduce development time and integrate seamlessly with existing iOS or Android projects.
Xamarin Developer: Hourly Rate $25-$50+
Xamarin is a cross-platform open-source platform that allows you to build mobile apps. Xamarin developers create apps for iOS and Android with Xamarin, C# programming languages, and the .NET framework. A Xamarin developer is a great choice if your technology stack relies heavily upon Microsoft ecosystem and .NET technologies.
You will notice that the rates developers charge differ depending on whether your target platform is available and the technical skills required to build your app. This brings us to the next cost factor...
What are the Pros and Cons of Platform Costs?
Do you want to build an app for Apple's iOS or Google's Android platform? While both platforms will be beneficial, there is no shame in choosing the one that suits you best. You can also expand your customer base once you profit from your initial investment. Here's a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of each platform to help you make your decision.
Android Platform
Android, an open-source Linux-based operating platform developed by Google for mobile devices, is Android. Android devices include the OnePlus, Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy.
The Android App Development Ecosystem
- Android SDK
- Java
- Submission requirements for Google Play Store
The Pros of Android app development
- Greater market penetration and reach for all categories, particularly in emerging markets in the developing world.
- A large open-source community with access to Android mods such as the CyanogenMod (which was succeeded by LineageOS or Paranoid Android).
- With more freedom to invent, you will have a deeper access to Android's operating systems.
The Cons of Android app development
- Android users are less likely to spend money and engage in fewer media types on average.
- Android developers have to deal with backwards compatibility issues and multiple versions. There are also more phone architectures and screen sizes that Android developers need to consider, which can lead to higher development costs.
iOS Platform
Apple created iOS, an operating system, exclusively for its mobile device product line, including the iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch. We will now describe everything about iOS app development for your business.
iOS App Development Ecosystem
- iOS SDK
- Swift (Objective C for legacy apps).
- Apple App Store Submission requirements
The Pros of iOS App Development
- iOS users are more likely to spend and engage with media in greater numbers, as well as having higher participation in M-Commerce (mobile buying)
- Stricter guidelines will produce high-quality apps with greater security and quality.
- Apple's stable release cycles and tightly managed device ecosystem ensure that most users have the latest iOS versions. This allows developers to concentrate on developing the latest APIs. Developers have fewer options for screen sizes and models.
Cons of iOS App Development
- There are many cons to a closed-source environment for development: less freedom to invent, less access to the operating system and stricter rules and regulations.
- Apple's frequent updates can be a double-edged sword, adding to ongoing maintenance costs.
You must note that any mobile app developer can overcome the technical issues of choosing one platform over another. It is far more important to choose the platform your customers prefer. The debate about Android versus iOS is largely cultural in the United States. Market research should be done to determine which platform is best for your customers.
Types of Mobile App Development Technologies
Your choice of technology tree for your mobile app development project will determine the person you hire to build it. This choice will impact the cost of your app.
Web App
Although technically not a mobile app, it is a mobile-friendly website. It uses a responsive design to provide a seamless user experience on all screen sizes. This is the best option for small businesses.
Native App
If an app is developed using a language that is native to the platform or device, it is considered native. This means Swift or Objective-C on iOS and Java or Kotlin on Android. Native apps offer better performance as the main advantage. However, native apps have the disadvantage of not being able to run on multiple platforms. You will need to create an app for each operating system. This double effort leads to higher development expenses.
Hybrid App
Hybrid apps compromise programmers' productivity and performance i.e. the hybrid app is a compromise between performance and programmer productivity. It allows you to create your mobile app using the three main web technologies: HTML and CSS. You can also use frameworks such as Cordova and Ionic. These are websites embedded within a bespoke mobile applications shell using a WebView, a browser bundled in a mobile phone app. This framework allows rudimentary access to the device's operating system and features.
Read More:- How AI Mobile App Development is Transforming the Industry in 2023?
Cross-Platform App
Cross-platform frameworks like PhoneGap and Xamarin let you build your app in one language. This allows you to create a single source code that can be compiled into native code for multiple platforms. Although cross-platform apps won't perform as well as natively developed apps, the benefits of a single codebase that can be compiled into native code across multiple platforms are worth it for many projects.
Next-gen Components-oriented JavaScript Frameworks
React Native is another example of a new type of app that uses components-oriented JavaScript frameworks. These apps have near-native performance and offer the same cross-platform benefits as hybrid and traditional cross-platform apps. These apps can be built in JavaScript and render native views (no need for a WebView). These new frameworks are components-oriented and offer near-native performance.
Factors that Influence the Price of a Mobile Application
A mobile app's development cost is influenced by a variety of factors. These seven factors are important in determining the cost of building a mobile app.
1. App Development Complexity
It is similar to planning a house. The price of an app will go up the more features you add.
Simple apps are easier to develop and more affordable. However, suppose you wish to incorporate advanced mobile app features into your app. In that case, development time will increase, and you'll need to spend more. It is important to ask the following questions.
- What are the features you're implementing in your app?
- Does the business logic of the application seem complex?
- What number of screens, buttons, or functions will it need?
Below is a breakdown of the costs for mobile app development based on complexity (assuming $40 per hour as an average price).
|
Complexity Level |
Features |
Examples |
Development Time |
Cost |
|
Simple apps |
Important features such as profile creation, search, notifications and messages There are no additional benefits There are no additional benefits Screens with fewer features |
Calendar, calculator or camera apps |
2-3 Months |
$40000-$60000 |
|
Average Apps |
These essential features include in-app purchases, payment portals, and other important features Allows API integration There are more screens than the basic version Custom UI Other features include real-time messaging and other services |
Loyalty Apps |
3 to 6 months |
$61,000-$150,000 |
|
Complex Apps |
Multifunctional apps Advanced features such as real-time synchronization Animation of the UI Media processing |
Uber and Instagram |
9 months and more |
$300,000+ |
Keep in mind the complexity of your app. If you add too many features to your app, your budget could quickly run out.
How to Estimate the Cost of Core App Features
Let's assume that $40 an hour is the average price. We will now look at the cost of creating an app depending on the features included.
|
Feature |
Function |
Time (Hours). |
Cost in USD |
|
Login User |
Most apps offer some type of login, from the simple username/password combination to more secure 2-factor authentication systems that can be used on social media to quick logins via mobile devices. |
20 |
$800 |
|
Monetization Schemes |
With their separate development costs, in-app purchases, shopping carts and payment integration are all distinct features. |
50+ |
$2500+ |
|
Messaging |
The ability to interact and communicate with each other is vital for social media apps. |
80+ |
$3200+ |
|
Geolocation |
Geolocation is a must-have for dating apps, restaurants, and travel. |
50 |
$2500 |
|
Search |
Many users want some type of search functionality, product catalogues, photo galleries or other content. |
10+ |
$400+ |
|
Push Notifications |
Notifications can be used to keep users informed and up-to-date about what's going on in your app. |
From 0 to 20 |
$40-$800 |
Note: This is a combination of standard features to create simple mobile apps. These are some other factors that can impact the cost and complexity of an app's construction:
- It is not clear if the application will require an internet connection.
- Pricing model of the app (e.g., subscription-based payment vs. single purchase model.)
- If the app will need back-end support.
2. App-Type
Mobile apps can be classified into three categories: Native, Web, or Hybrid. Based on the app's requirements, business logic and functionality, each type of app is unique.
- Native apps are created using language that is native to the device's operating system, such as Objective C or Swift on the iOS platform or Java or Kotlin on the Android platform.
- A website's mobile version is known as a web app. They use responsive design to provide a seamless user interface on a variety screen sizes, from smartphones to tablets.
- Hybrid apps combine web and native technologies to best serve a large audience.
Here's a table that shows the differences between Web and native app types. Native vs. Hybrid mobile application developments:
|
Basis |
Web App |
Hybrid App |
Native app |
|
Cost |
$60,000-$300,000 |
$50,000-$300,000 |
$40,000-$200,000 |
|
Performance |
It all depends on the internet connectivity and browser performance. |
They are highly efficient because they have access to native features of the device. |
Limited access to native features results in lower performance |
|
Code Maintenance |
Low: All platforms use the same code |
High: One code can't be used on all devices. |
Moderate: A single code structure can be port to all major platforms. |
|
Distribution Channel |
Available online immediately |
Hosted in App Store of the operating system. |
Hosted in App Store of the operating system. |
|
Requirements Skills |
HTML, CSS, JavaScript |
Objective-C, iOS SDK Java, Android SDK |
HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Mobile Development Framework |
|
Best Uses |
Apps with low-performance requirements, limited resources, and limited funds. |
Games and consumer-focused apps that require high optimization levels (such as Games) or apps that are concerned with graphics and performance may be required. |
These apps are not high-performance but still require full access to the device. |
3. Region of Development
Mobile app development companies can be more affordable in certain regions than in others. This is due to the differences in the hourly rates of programmers.
Here are the hourly rates for programmers in different regions:
|
Region |
Hourly rate (in $) |
|
United States of America |
$120-150 |
|
United Kingdom |
$100-120 |
|
Australia |
$100-120 |
|
Western Europe |
$80-100 |
|
Eastern Europe |
$30-50 |
|
India |
$20-30 |
Pricing is much more affordable in India, UK, and Australia than it is in the US. The cost of building an app in these areas is almost half that ($120-150/hour).
4. Your Application will Run on the Platform you Choose
Here is an estimate of the cost to develop a mobile app for iOS and Android:
|
Mobile App Type |
Estimated Development Time |
Estimated Cost |
|
Android App |
1,200 hours |
$50,000-$300,000 |
|
iOS App |
1,200 hours |
$55,000-$300,000 |
These platforms are very similar in terms of cost. It is possible to choose to build your app in either iOS or Android. It is possible to follow a stair-step method, which involves creating apps for one platform, and then later building them for another. Instagram, which was first released on iOS in 2010, is now available for Android users in 2014, four years after its launch.
But, it is another matter. Consider the following:
|
Mobile App Type |
Android |
iOS |
|
Market Share |
86.2% |
13.8% |
|
Complexity of Development |
Android is the operating system of many smartphones and tablets. Android devices are not using any other operating system than Android. |
Apple only has a few devices that run iOS (iPhones, iPads, and iPods). These devices have the most recent iOS 11. |
|
Publishing charges |
Only $25 to upload your app and 30% for purchases through the app |
The app charges $99 per year and 30% for purchases made via the app. |
|
Time for Development |
Android development is slow because of the higher complexity of Android devices. |
iOS development is 40% quicker than Android. |
If you wish to target both iOS and Android markets simultaneously, you can create a hybrid app. These apps are much cheaper than creating native apps simultaneously.
5. Approach to Development
If you believe that the development approach doesn't matter or has no impact on the cost of building a mobile application, then you are mistaken. When creating a mobile application, it is important to keep in mind the development approach.
These are the steps you should follow to create a mobile application:
|
Development Approach |
Estimated Cost |
|
Local Agency |
Let's say you live in the US. Hourly rates for the Development & Design Team are $120-150 If development takes 500 hours, development costs will be: $120 * 500 = $60,000 We must not forget about maintenance and operation costs. |
|
A team of in-house employees |
The cost of hiring a local agency is higher than the cost of hiring one. These are the salaries for various members of the development team: Full-stack developer: $98,000 annually Designer: $85,000/year iOS Developer or Android Developer = $85,000 annually There will also be ongoing and maintenance costs. |
|
Hire Freelancers |
The country where you are hiring freelancers will affect the hourly rate. US: $50/hour Ukraine: $25/hour Latin America: $20/hour Asia: $15-$25/hour If development takes 500 hours, development costs will be: US: $25000 Ukraine: $12500 Latin America: $10000 Asia: $7500 - $12,500 |
|
Outsourcing partner |
Hourly outsourcing rates North America: $38-$63 Eastern Europe: $25-50 Western Europe: $20-$45 Latin America: $30-$50 Africa: $20 - $40 Asia: $18 - $40 If development takes 500 hours, development costs will be: North America: $19000-31,500 Eastern Europe: $12,500 to $25,000 Western Europe: $10,000 - $22,500 Latin America: $15,000 to $25,000 Africa: $10,000 - $20,000 Asia: $9000 - $20,000 |
Hiring a freelancer is the best option, according to all the facts. But it comes with a cost. Freelancers don't have to be accountable. A well-built app is not guaranteed. Hiring an app development agency is more feasible. This agency is cheaper than an in-house or local team, and you are responsible for your app.
6. The Complexity of the Application Design
As with application development, higher customizations can lead to higher prices. These are just a few of the many aspects that you need to know:
- User experience: Apps' cost will vary based on user engagement and other factors such as color psychology and eye patterns.
- User Interface: The cost of a mobile app will be affected by visual elements such as layout, screen, color and typography.
- Branding: If you want your app to stand out among hundreds of other brands, you will need to spend more.
- UX Writing: It will be more expensive to hire a UX writer in a native English-speaking nation than one from a foreign country.
Hidden Costs of Mobile App Development
These are some additional costs that mobile app development can bring.
- These costs include third-party integration fees. These costs can run anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 each year.
- Maintenance costs include the cost of fixing bugs, updating software, and paying fees for hosting. These maintenance costs amount to 20% of annual app development costs.
- Promoting your app requires marketing costs. These costs are approximately 40% of the original development cost.
What is the Approximate Cost of Building Different Mobile Apps?
Building an App for a Marketplace like Airbnb is Expensive
A marketplace app combines an eCommerce store and an on-demand app. Hence, it takes more time to develop. The cost of developing a complex app like Airbnd is often higher than the average. For instance; a rental booking app like Airbnd has these advanced features:
- Find available units for rent and make last-minute bookings
- Keep a list of your favorite places and homes
- Referral system and co-planning for a trip
- Booking workflow for advanced booking
- In-app communication
These factors are considered, and the price of arental booking marketplace app starts at $75,000.
Cost of Building a Tinder Dating App
Tinder uses a simple system: swipe left and right to like or dislike a person. These are its key features:
- Authorization
- GPS Location
- Profile of the user
- Matching functionality
- Push notifications
- Communication
- Integration by third parties
These apps can run you approximately $45,000
How Much Does it Cost to Create a Social Media Platform like Instagram?
Instagram and other social networking apps heavily emphasize information sharing and social interaction. You must plan them to process lots of data.
These are the essential features that social networking apps should have:
- Building profiles
- Media publishing (for sharing images and videos)
- Social interactions (liking or commenting on a post)
- Push notifications
These apps can be purchased for anywhere between $60,000 and $300,000.
Cost of Building a Ride-Hailing App such as Uber
Uber is a ride-hailing app that offers three applications. There are two mobile apps for drivers and passengers, plus one web application for admin. It also has the following features:
- Push notifications and SMS
- Integration of payments
- Geolocation
- Advanced route optimization and routing.
You can expect to pay around $50,000 for a ride-hailing app.
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Cost to Create a Brand-based App like Ikea
Apps based on brands like Ikea can be feature-heavy, increasing app development costs. These brand-based apps offer the following features:
- Augmented reality
- 3D product visualization
- 360° view of the products
- Analytics and dashboards in real-time
- CRM Integration
Summary
Do you want to create a mobile application but are unsure how to calculate the cost? This article will provide you with a wealth of information. This article discusses factors such as app type and development location and other complexities that can greatly impact the cost of developing a mobile application. You will be able to make the best decisions for your company by the end of this article.
