The question of app development cost arises once you have decided to go online with your business. To make a long story short, the average cost to create an app of good quality starts between $40,000 - $60,000 and may rise to $300,000+ for one platform (web, iOS, Android). Consequently, the timeline can take 2 months for a simple and 9+ months for a complex mobile app development project.
The cost of your app depends on the development process and many factors, including app type, functionality and design elements and their complexity, selected IT vendor and region, and development approach.
If we use a 40$/hour as the average price tag, the cost to build an app ranges from $40,000 to $300,000+.
| Cost for 1 Platform | Timeline | App Example | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple app | $40,000 to $60,000 | 2-3 months | Calculators, Camera |
| Basic app | $61,000 to $150,000 | 3-6 months | McDonald’s Loyalty App |
| Complex/ custom (multi-feature) app | from $300,000+ | 9+ months, ongoing | Uber, Instagram |
In this guide, our software development company has evaluated a few studies and presented our experience in defining app cost ranges based on distinct factors.
You can easily predict the potential cost of your future application, understand the app development cost formation, manage your budget, and cut the cost.
App Development Cost: Benchmarks
Most people utilize different mobile apps as part of their daily activities. Statista indicates that globally there are over 7 billion smartphone users, which is expected to increase by a few hundred million within the following years. As a result, the idea of creating your own app is a wise strategy to pursue.
The most reliable mobile app industry studies provided the following quotations for app development cost and timeline:
- Average minimum app development project cost is between $5,000 to $10,000. The typical cost to create an app is likely to be far higher, according to Clutch.
- The median app development cost is between $$25,275 and $114,300 for iOS app development at $100/hour, representing 1,143 development hours based on a Clutch survey.
- The total app price could even increase to $500,000 in the case of complex functionality implementation, according to Clutch.
- On average, the cost to create an enterprise app is $140,000 as VDC Research states.
- Regarding the app development timeline: over 80% of mobile apps take 3+ months to develop; 40% of apps are built in 6+ months, as Outsystems Survey indicates.
- Available app cost calculators state a price range from $$200,000 to $350,000 for complex, multi-feature mobile apps. In case the app consists of basic features, the cost ranges from $10,000 to $50,000. According to the app development cost calculator, the app consists of basic features cost from $10,000 to $50,000.
The most influential factors which determine the final cost to build an app are:
- App functionality and purpose
- Vendor type and location
- Cost of app development process
- Size and level of a development team
- Complexity and number of app features
- Back-end infrastructure, connected APIs, and integrations
- Complexity of UX/UI design
- Inclusion of additional branded visual elements
- Development approach (native, mobile web, hybrid, etc.)
- Number of platforms to be developed (iOS, Android, web, etc.)
- Mobile platforms and devices supported
- Ongoing maintenance plan
- Vendor type and location
Want to create an application?
You are always welcome to contact our team and discuss your app concept. We will tell you details of the app development process and estimate its cost and timeline. By combining your creative ideas with our technical experience we can create a great product that users will love.
Mobile App Development Cost in 2024
The question is still open. How much does it cost to build an app in 2024?
The key findings suggest that the cost to develop an app ranges from just $5,000 to $500,000 based on up-to-date industry surveys.
Our team has also created a detailed investigation on the cost to build an app that lists estimates based on widely used app features, design complexity, and software development stages.
As a result, our conclusion supports the main findings regarding the cost to develop an app in 2024. An application with a core set of features costs upwards of $60,000, while the complex mobile app development cost starts at $300,000.
The table below illustrates the range of costs to build an app with timeline accordingly.
| Basic app (core feature set, 1 platform) |
Full Product (more features and more complex design, 1 platforms) |
Large App (complex app design, feature rich app development, and support, 2+ platforms) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Total cost | ~$60,000-$150,000 | ~$150,000 -$300,000+ | $300,000+ |
| Timeline | ~3-5 months | ~4-9 months | 9+ months (ongoing) |
Cost to Develop an App: Understanding the Basics
The following elements should help you understand the app development cost, so you can influence the price range and set your project’s budget.
1. Native vs. Hybrid Cost of App Development
The app development approach definitely influences the final cost to build an app.
An application that suits the guidelines of a specific operating system is called native. Thus, you can only build a native app for each system separately. Logically, the app development price increases in proportion to the number of platforms you want to target.
In contrast, a hybrid or cross-platform app works with multiple operating systems, which means you can save money by building only one application for all required platforms.
However, due to the technical superiority and performance of native apps, most of app development companies recommend this approach.
2. iOS vs. Android App Development
You may also ask if there is any difference in app development cost based on the platform. The answer is no.
These days, the app development timeline for Android and iOS apps is almost the same. If you target both platforms, your applications can be built simultaneously and use APK to iOS and Android, allowing the apps to be launched simultaneously.
3. Mobile App Development Process: Misconceptions
The two most common delusions within app development are as follows:
1. You expect your app business to become another “Uber”
The majority of digital startuppers expect good outcomes right away. Many of the requests we receive sound like: “build an app like Uber” or “I want to develop an app like Instagram.”
You would surely agree that these app-based companies have evolved over the long term. Besides, just consider the fact that Instagram received $57.5M in investments for application development to become successful.
So, if you want another Uber or Instagram - expect to pay!
Advice: Instead of duplicating someone’s success, it is essential to concentrate on bringing something new to the market. These days, you need to build habit-forming app products.
We recommend that you read “Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products"
Everyone in Silicon Valley is talking about this book. The book is a best-seller and a must-read for anyone who wants to know what it takes to build an app into a successful business.
2. You can succeed without proper market research
It is highly necessary to evaluate the market and complete the pre-planning stage for your app concept. Do your homework carefully: study the market and find the pain points your app can solve to make money from your application.
3. App development is a one-time thing
If you want to create a successful business, understand that the journey does not end with the app release! The app development process is an ongoing endeavor. In this regard, the question “how much does it cost to make an app” becomes tricky to answer.
Many focus only on the initial development cost and ignore the total cost of ownership, including application updates, bug fixing, and maintenance - these appear after the app creation. Thus, the truth is that app maintenance requires more time and money over a more extended period than the actual development.
In addition, one should concentrate on building long-term commitment with app developers you hire, as they’ll add their expertise to the app’s growth and changes.
4. Reasons Behind Expensive App Development
Airplanes and cars are both types of transportation, but they are different by all means. The same can be said about software. The cost to develop an app like Uber differs significantly from the cost of an app like Today Weather, which simply uses third-party API.
Why people have a tendency to devalue software?
This confusion exists due to the following three factors:
- Apps are intangible- as opposed to hardware, software products are seen as screens. All the hard work is done in the background to show this information. An analysis of Kickstarter campaigns derives that hardware projects receive more funding than software ideas. Hardware is suspected to remain more noticeable while the software is out of sight and, therefore, unappreciated.
- Immeasurable intellectual capital value - the creativity and thoughtfulness involved at the project’s start is hard to measure. Usually, a cross-disciplinary team is involved to ensure all the app details and processes are covered. Clients do not see the result of this work since it does not result in any tangible deliverables, just an app concept. Therefore, many people become confused by the final app price tag for a custom software development service.
- Non-obvious benefits - some prefer elegant, simple, and intuitive products, while others search for more power and speed in their apps. This can be compared to Mac users and those who have never understood the benefits provided by Apple’s devices.
How is App Development Cost Estimated?
How can you accurately estimate the cost of mobile app development services?
The main app cost driver is the app’s features.
A feature is a special activity or task according to which the software should operate and give the expected result. This can be a sign-up button on a screen or something more complex like video-streaming integration. The number of features and complexity of their implementation directly correlate with the cost to build an app.
The formula used to calculate app development cost is as follows:
Before app development begins, reliable software development firms usually provide you with a rough mobile app development cost estimate. The quote is based on your project description, business and technical requirements. This information is combined and concluded in a preliminary list of features.
Companies usually estimate app development cost using:
- Concepts - present a sum of features to accomplish
- Stories - list all the features necessary to make a concept
- Story Points - show the app development pace and complexity
These items are presented in the form of a product backlog.
A product backlog is a list of the features, changes to existing features, bug fixes, infrastructure changes, or other activities that a team may deliver to achieve a specific outcome.
Clients are generally charged for based on the following options:
- Fixed Charge - a payment that implies the cost charged for a specific timeline. This may work well for smaller projects, especially those with a clear and well-defined scope of work. The advantage of this option is that the app development cost is affirmed with the client before development starts.
- Time & Material - a pricing structure is determined by the time and materials needed for a project and thus is typically calculated based on an hourly rate. This approach provides flexibility during the app development and fits more complex and ongoing projects.
It is necessary to understand the benefits of applying the Time & Material option, even though you may be anxious about it initially. As this option has both an initial project estimate and the ability to change the scope during the process, this helps to control the app development budget and, with this flexibility.
Why initial mobile app development cost estimates are not always met?
Basically, there are two reasons why the estimated app development cost does not end up matching reality:
- Unfaithful app quotes are provided by a software firm of low service quality. Some companies do not pay enough attention in the preparation of a good-faith estimate or are dishonest and simply want to sign the contract.
- Increase in app development scope due to changes along the way.
If your budget is limited for the first app version, you have three options:
- Agree on specific features - set them upfront and stick to the plan. If you follow this rule, you will keep the same scope of work, and the app development costs will also stay the same.
- Pay additional costs - with extra app functionality, be prepared that your cost to build an app will increase.
- Drop functionality - along with your development team, you can prioritize app functionality. In this case, you may rearrange the scope of work so that it will contain necessary features and fit budget constraints. Reach a compromise so your cost to develop an app stays at the same level.
How to know the approximate price for your app
If you want a more accurate app quote, please contact our team. We will evaluate your project idea in detail. This estimate will more realistically match your project requirements.
Cost to Build an App Based on Development Stages
In most cases, the mobile app development process consists of these five stages:
- Pre-development (also called - discovery or research)
- UX/UI design
- App development
- App testing and deployment
- Ongoing support and maintenance
Note: Depending on the app vendor these steps can be renamed, take place in another order, or imply a slightly different format.
The majority of software development vendors (~ 70%) start a project with the pre-research/ discovery stage(Source: Clutch.co, 2017).
Our team is not an exception, since this step allows the team to clarify all the ins and outs of the app from both technical and business perspectives.
A common understanding and trust are formed with a client and software development vendor through personal meetings.
Discovery stage provides the following benefits:
- Time and cost savings
- Requirements validation
- Goal-based design solution
- Risk coverage
- Synchronization of the Product Owner (client) with the team
- App project task prioritization
The biggest benefit you receive after the discovery stage is an exact answer to the question: “how much does it cost to make an app for your business?” An accurate app development budget and delivery date are calculated based on user stories presented in the product backlog.
Once the discovery stage starts, a cross-functional team is allocated to the project. The team may consist of a Business Analyst, Software Architect, Designers, etc.
Among other possible Discovery Stage deliverables are:
- Finalized project concept
- UX/UI design
- Product backlog
- Project architecture plan
- Market & Competitor analysis (optional)
The average cost of the discovery stage ranges from $10,000 to $15,000 with a timeline of 2-4 weeks. These costs and timeline relate to an average app project lasting 3-5 months. Depending on the project's complexity, the number of platforms, and functionality, the discovery phase budget can increase to $50,000 or even higher.
It is necessary to have a visual representation of the app before the actual app coding. App design costs around $5,000 for an average of 11-20 app screens; the price correlates with the number of screens, UX/UI complexity, and the use of custom visual elements.
Similarly, the number of features and their complexity influence the cost of an app during the development stage. Ordinary features like user login/logout, push notifications, in-app search by one entity type, and basic one-to-one chat cost less. The functionality connected with the content management system (admin panel), video and audio streaming, is complex and thus more expensive.
The app testing stage ensures proper app function and quality. Logically, the cost for app testing is directly connected to the app functionality. In practice, app testing takes up around 30% of the app cost spent on client-side (front-end) implementation. The front-end part of an admin panel costs less; around 10%.
The graph illustrates the average app development cost during each stage based on data collected from 102 app development firms.
At MLSDev, we follow a custom software development and customer-oriented approach because we value cooperation with our clients, care about their long-term success, and act with integrity. If you like these principles and are looking for someone to estimate your project well, we are always ready to help you.
Want to know your initial app development budget?
At MLSDev, we can estimate your project roughly to give you a general idea of the potential cost of your app. Interested?
Mobile App Development Cost Based on 11 App Types
Please note: the following app development costs are given to build a common understanding. As well, some app types may have similar functionality.
Remember: each and every project is unique, since no one has the same requirements, business context, technologies, and people involved.
1. Basic App Development Cost
- App Cost: > ~$15,000
- Timeline: ~1 month
- Examples: Calculator, Camera, Clock, Local games, SMS apps, Local audio/ video players
Basic apps are simple apps with 5-6 screens and no backend or necessity for a network connection. These apps are not that common today. There should be a clear purpose for developing this type of app with the Internet connection.
2. Data-driven App Development Cost
- App Cost: ~$15,000+
- Timeline: ~1-1.5 months
- Examples: Calendar, Weather, Stocks, Maps
Data-driven apps are defined as those that consume and process only specific information. For instance, Today Weather app uses third-party API information.These apps are also not that common today, but they still exist. In most cases, these apps are either the extension of a larger software product or include additional features.
Other examples of apps in this category are calendar or stock apps. Note that these apps may need some back-end work, and so the cost to build an app increases.
3. Authentication App Development Cost
- App Cost: starting from ~$60,000+
- Timeline: ~3-6 months
- Examples: McDonald’s Loyalty App, Google Drive
Authentication apps need a user to log in to provide full app functionality. The app development cost for this type increases since there are many subordinate features. Here, the user has a personal account and interacts with the data, which is synchronized among devices. This also requires a corresponding admin panel for content and user management.
It is advisable to employ registration via social networks (Facebook, Twitter, etc). This is a one-step procedure that is quicker to implement. Our team has vast experience in developing apps with login functionality.
MLSDev team has a vast experience in building applications in this domain. Take a look at the project illustrated below.
Check out the McDonald's project implementation. Discover the case study of McDonald’s Baltics Loyalty App. in greater detail. This is a good example of an authentication app. All the app's features are unlocked once the user is registered. Please note that the application is not active on App Stores.
4. Social Networking App Development Cost
- App Cost: ~$60,000 - $300,000+
- Timeline: ~3-6 to up to 9+ months for ongoing project
- Examples: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Yummi
Logically, social networking apps imply social interactions, chats, and information sharing. Therefore, the back-end infrastructure should be planned to process lots of data.
There are also many subdued types of social apps like media sharing, apps for consumer reviews, communities, blogs, anonymous and interest-based networks, dating apps, etc.
All of the existing popular networks like Instagram or Facebook started from either an MVP or a first basic version with their core features.
For example, Instagram was an app working with photos - adhering a photo into a square. This is known as its key functionality which allowed the app to succeed.
Discover how we created a Yummi social media app. Check out the case study of creating Yummi App in greater detail. Yummi has been developed to create and share your eating logs, best food memories, and great places to eat.
5. E-Commerce App Development Cost
- App Cost: ~$60,000 - $300,000+
- Timeline: ~3-6 to up to 9+ months for ongoing project
- Examples: Amazon, eBay, Alibaba, ASOS, Gopuff
E-Commerce apps are equipped with detailed product catalogs, separate product pages, and a user check-out system completed via payment transaction. For payments, services like Braintree and Stripe are great to integrate.
The e-commerce app infrastructure is a complex, as it requires a well-planned back-end and admin panel to manage users, orders, catalog pages, payments, inventory, etc.
To learn more, read the article: How Much Does an E-Commerce Website Cost?
6. On-demand App Development Cost
- App Cost: ~ from $70,000 - 100,000+ (basic, per platform)
- Timeline: ~5-7+ months
- Examples: Uber, UberEATS, Postmates, Nimber, Melabiz
The on-demand economy sector relates to transportation and travel apps, food & grocery delivery services, laundry or salon services, etc.
Uber is the most well-known example of this type of app, conquering the market worldwide. The cost of Uber’s project can be identified by simply looking at its funding. The information on
Crunchbase states that the company received $1,300,000 solely during the seed round.
These products usually consist of two apps with totally different experiences. Thus, their functionality also differs; e.g. rider and client app in Uber.
As a result, app development cost rises along with the development timeline. It is necessary to build two separate applications with their own logic, UX/UI design, and functionality. This is especially true if you plan to launch this type of app on both iOS and Android.
At MLSDev, a dedicated team is working on a complex on-demand service called Gopuff. Our team has helped with Gopuff’s project growth from the initial idea to over 400+ micro-fulfillment centers in 650+ U.S. cities and 7,000+ workers. For more details, you can check out the Gopuff case study on our website.
7. Marketplace App Development Cost
- App Cost: ~$300,000+ (web platform)
- Timeline: ~9+ months
- Examples: TripAdvisor, Booking.com
A marketplace app includes features from both e-commerce and on-demand services, as it is an extensive version of these apps. The marketplace app concept has two sides of the economy - demand and supply. The logic and interaction in user experience should be well-defined. This process takes time, so the cost to develop an app of this type is higher.
For instance, Uber focuses solely on transportation services. In contrast, TripAdvisor offers hotels, restaurants, airline tickets, and more services with the help of a website and native iOS and Android applications.
8. IoT & Hardware App Development Cost
- App Cost: starting at ~$60,000+
- Timeline: from ~3-6 months
- Examples: Beacons, Amazon Dash Buttons, WeMo, BELI Printing Service, Jo
Internet-of-Things apps interconnect particular physical objects or equipment with technology. Once the IoT technology is applied, these items are considered ‘smart.’ These ‘smart’ items could be medical tools, pet collars, devices for home assistance, and so on.
These apps must connect with a device either via Bluetooth or WiFi technology. This helps to send requests and receive data.
To develop this kind of app, it is necessary to have a ready-made device and its comprehensive documentation. It is then possible to estimate the cost to develop an app, at least roughly.
9. eLearning App Development Cost
- App Cost: starting at ~$60,000+ (per platform)
- Timeline: ~3-6+ months
- Examples: DuoLingo, Coursera, Udemy, Memrise, KhanAcademy
Since the pandemic started, the tendency to learn online has grown exponentially. As a result, eLearning apps have become the third most popular category in app stores.
The functionality of these apps can be basic and consist of registration, user profile, search, simple assessment, chats, and so on. The larger part of the app should be dedicated to training materials and lessons, making the app the platform for spreading educational materials.
An eLearning app should definitely involve a gamification element, for example, in-app currency, levels, achievement badges, etc. Of course, the app development cost of a complex, multi-user (teacher, student) app with more functionalities and design elements starts at $60,000+ per platform.
10. Healthcare App Development Cost
- App Cost: starting at ~$60,000+ (per platform)
- Timeline: ~3-6+ months
- Examples: Calm, MyFitnessPal, Headspace, Human Anatomy Atlas, EMT: Pocket Prep, Epocrates, mySugr, Idana
There are multiple types of systems for healthcare, including nutrition and fitness app development, telemedicine software development, EHR (electronic health record) solutions, and much more.
The market of healthcare products is expanding and is expected to reach 640 billion USD by 2026.
The cost of healthcare applications also ranges based on complexity, number of users, user experience and design, functionality, and whether or not you want to innovate with cloud solutions, AI, ML, IoT, Big Data, or blockchain.
For these apps, security and data encryption is a critical element, which makes it vital to know how to work with healthcare application development standards such as HIPAA, GDPR, HITECH Act, and others.
We have created telemedicine functionality, medical appointment booking systems, fitness apps, etc. Check out the details on the medical project that we helped digitize the healthcare sector in the Dominican Republic.
11. Video Streaming App Development Cost
- App Cost: starting at ~$60,000+ (per platform)
- Timeline: ~3-6+ months
- Examples: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu
Video-streaming services are in high demand, and many have switched to online content-curation platforms and producers like Netflix, YouTube, Twitch, etc.
While developing these apps, many difficulties may arise ranging from complex back-end architecture, video streaming protocols, network connectivity, to security and licensing matters. These specifics may add considerably to the total price of developing such an app.
Want to create a video-streaming platform?
If you are interested in how sites like YouTube and Netflix are created, follow the link and read the information in the detailed guide How to Create a Video Streaming Website: 10-Step Guide with Business & Technical Parts.
The MLSDev team delivered great work by designing and building ADASA, a video processing and live-streaming solution and can consult you on creating a similar product.
In conclusion, the following table summarises the key approximate app development cost and timeline information for each particular app type.
| App development cost | Timeline (in months) | Examples | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic app | > ~$15,000 | ~1-month | Calculators, Camera, Clock |
| Data-driven app | ~$15,000+ * | ~1-1.5 months | Calendar, Weather, Stocks |
| Authentication app | ~$60,000+ * | ~3-6 months | McDonald’s Loyalty App, Google Drive |
| Social networking app | ~$60,000 - $300,000+ | ~3-6 up to 9+ months | Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Yummi |
| E-Commerce app | ~$60,000 - $300,000+ | ~3-6 up to 9+ months | Amazon, eBay, Alibaba, ASOS, Gopuff |
| On-demand app | ~$70,000 - $100,000+ (basic, per platform) * |
~5-7+ months | Uber, UberEATS, Postmates, Nimber, Melabiz |
| Marketplace app (multilevel web platform) |
~$300,000+ | ~9+ months | TripAdvisor, Booking.com |
| IoT & Hardware app | ~$60,000+ * | ~3-6 months | Beacons, Amazon Dash Buttons, WeMo, DirectTV, BELI Printing Service, Jo |
| eLearning app | from ~$60,000+ * | from ~3-6 months | DuoLingo, Coursera, Udemy, Memrise, KhanAcademy |
| Healthcare app | from ~$60,000+ * | from ~3-6 months | Calm, MyFitnessPal, Headspace, Human Anatomy Atlas, EMT: Pocket Prep, Epocrates, mySugr, Idana |
| Video-streaming app | from ~$60,000+ * | from ~3-6 months | Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu |
- Basic version - core feature set, 1 platform, responsive design
10 Hidden App Development Cost Drivers
The process of app evolution can be separated into the following phases:
- Phase 1: Development of the first app version. This milestone includes design creation, coding the feature, quality assurance, etc. The app architecture is also organized for subsequent project versions, including hosting, proper server capabilities, databases, different supporting libraries, etc.
- Phase 2: Ongoing mobile app development. This phase refers to the hidden app development costs, including the necessary app updates, implementation of new features, app maintenance, bug fixes, and more.
Some of the elements, especially those that fall into the app architecture and ongoing development categories, can sometimes be undervalued or hidden. This may cause confusion among clients, as these parts impact the cost to build an app noticeably.
Below is a list of elements that have some of the biggest influence on app cost:
- App infrastructure services (servers, hosting, domains)
- Assembling the app architecture: monolithic vs. microservices architecture (the latter uses more technical resources, but is also more efficient in the long run)
- Databases used for data storage (user data, photo and video content, etc.)
- Assembling back-end infrastructure (especially for further app scalability)
- API and third-party service integration (e.g. payments, maps, analytics, etc.)
- App administration (complex web portals or CMS for app management)
- Development tools and libraries used
- Data encryption to transfer data
- Regular app updates and bug fixes
- Video or audio streaming functionality
Please also take into account: Software development vendors estimate the current costs to build an app, which excludes support and app maintenance costs.
If you plan to build a great app product, consider the ongoing app development cost you will have to handle.
The cost to maintain and support an app is considerably higher than the budget spent on original app development.
So, how much does it cost to maintain an app?
For starters, app maintenance could involve, but not be limited to, the following aspects:
- Ongoing bug fixing and app updates
- Code improvement and optimization
- Support for third-party integrations
- Support for the latest operating system version
- Development of new app features
- App updates with new technologies
- Server improvements
- App scalability
Recent studies regarding the ongoing app development cost state:
- Typical mobile app development equates to around 35% of the total budget spent over the next two years (Computerworld)
- After the app launch, expect that further support and app maintenance costs will be around $5,000 - $10,000 annually (Clutch Survey, 2017)
- Around 50% of the app development cost will be spent on maintenance during the first year, 25% in the second, and 15%-25% each subsequent year (Outsystems Survey, 2018-19)
Thus, it makes sense to set two different mobile app development budgets; one for the first working product version, and another for app’s further support and ongoing development.
Conclusion: How to Build Your Mobile App on a Budget
We assume you now have an idea of some approximate app development costs. Here is a list summarizing how it is possible to stick to the initial app development budget, as well as a couple of helpful recommendations.
- Do your homework. Note the app requirements (technologies, platform(s)) and conduct market research for an app idea, solution, and target audience.
- Choose the right app development team. Select a vendor who is experienced in your niche, has worked with well-known brands, and has a substantial portfolio.These vendors are likely to work on minimizing the app development costs and timeline, and:
- build and work on their open-source libraries and use them in app development (while not breaking licenses rights). Check MLSDev’s TRON open-source library on GitHub
- use their own best practices and ready-made solutions for the intended functionality (e.g. user registration, chats) to save time for regular operations
- apply only proven and working libraries and third-party services with enough documentation
- utilize effective project management processes and tools inside the mobile app development company
- apply just the right technologies and development tools to achieve the necessary results
- Take into account hourly development rates. Outsourcing to Eastern Europe (e.g. Ukraine) is preferable since it provides a good price-quality ratio.
- Start small. Beginning with the development of the first app version is a good way to start growing your project.
- Use simple app design. Apply laconic and intuitive app design for the first app version.
- Monitor and be involved in the process as a Product Owner. Your feedback is highly valuable to the team and only through a combined effort can you achieve greater results.
- Planning is key. Even though it may not have a single line of code, the app discovery stage is one of the keystones. Never undervalue this phase because it is worth the initial investment.
- Receive a detailed project estimate. Just after the discovery stage, you should receive the core project materials and the rough app estimate should become exact.
- Stick to the app scope. Otherwise, be prepared to pay extra or reorganize the work with your app development vendor.
Let's summarize the results of our app development cost analysis:
- App development cost per platform ranges from approximately $15,000 to $300,000+.
- Industry studies present the cost to build an app from $5,000 to $500,000+. This supports the fact that the app development cost is hard to predict upfront.
- App development cost is based on factors like app development vendor, number and complexity of features, design, development approach, and platform(s).
- Accordingly, the timeline to build an app varies anywhere from 1 to 9+ (ongoing project) months.
- It is precious to complete the Discovery stage. The stage price for the first app version is around $10,000 - $15,000 for 2-4 weeks of work. This cost may increase up to $50,000 based on the project's specifics, complexity, the number of platforms, and so on.
- Discovery phase deliverables are a finalized app concept, product backlog listing app functionality, app design, and architecture plan. As well, an accurate app development budget is specified.
! Bonus & Detailed Infographic for App Development Cost
Check out ultimate guides prepared by our team below:
These guides list the key functionality, business strategies, and some cost and timeline estimates if you plan to develop projects similar to:
- Video streaming service like Netflix
- Photo-sharing network like Instagram
- Messenger like WhatsApp
- Taxi- service app like Uber
- Shopping app like Wish
- Custom eLearning platform like Coursera
- Live-streaming and audio-chat app like Clubhouse
- Great dating app like Tinder
- Marketplace like Amazon or AliExpress
- CRM system like Hubspot or SalesForce
- Food delivery app like UberEats
- On-demand delivery app like DoorDash
If your idea does not fall in any mentioned category -> Contact our team are get your estimate for free
Frequently Asked Questions:
💲 How much does it cost to build a mobile app?
If you plan to build an app of medium complexity, the timeline to implement your application can take from 6 to 9 months. In general, the timeline to build an app varies anywhere from 1 to 9+ months. It depends on multiple factors including a number of features and their complexity, uniqueness of the design, usage of third-party services, and so on.
✅ Why do reliable app development companies recommend developing native apps instead of hybrid?
The hybrid apps opposed to native are less expensive but this option has some considerable limitation. Native app development offers more possibilities for customization, facilitation, and optimization, provide better quality, performance, and user interaction. In its turn, this gives the most value to the target audience. At the same time, native vs hybrid app has a lower risk of the app being banned from the app stores.
🏆 How to choose a reliable mobile app development company?
The initial step is to study the shortlisted IT vendors by checking information like portfolio, experience, industry focus, tech specialization, client testimonials, etc. Further, when communicating with potential teams, you need to consider factors like the estimated project duration and required budget, documentation, software development tools, the number of app developers assigned to the project, and so on.
💲 How much budget should I allocate for the app maintenance?
Typically, the cost to maintain an app makes 35% of the total budget spent on original app development over the next two years. Please, note that the sum won’t be less than $5,000 - $10,000 annually. The recent findings illustrate that around 50% of the app development cost will be spent on maintenance during the first year, 25% in the second, and 15%-25% each subsequent year.