An Actually Honest Breakdown: How Much Does It Cost to Build an App?

You’ve got the next big app idea, and it’s going to be a game-changer. But before you get too far down the rabbit hole of features and designs, there’s a question every aspiring app creator asks: how much does it cost to build an app?

Like most things in tech, the answer is… it depends. While some apps can be built on a modest budget, others require extensive development, testing, and post-launch support. Let’s break down the factors that determine the cost of building an app, so you can plan your project with realistic expectations.

Factors That Affect App Development Costs

The cost to build an app will very much vary dramatically based on several key factors. Understanding these will help you estimate your budget more accurately.

App Complexity

One of the biggest cost drivers is the complexity of the app development. Simply put, the more features you want, the more expensive it will be. Here’s a breakdown:

• Basic apps (e.g., a simple information app) can cost anywhere between $10,000–$50,000.
• Moderately complex apps (e.g., an e-commerce or social app) range from $50,000–$150,000.
• Highly complex apps (e.g., apps with AI, AR, or advanced backend systems) can exceed $300,000.

The more complex your app, the more development hours will be required, and that’s where costs can add up quickly.

Platform: iOS, Android, or Both?

Another factor is the platform your app will run on. Developing for iOS and Android requires different coding languages and frameworks.

• iOS-only apps tend to be slightly less expensive, as they’re easier to develop for a single platform, usually costing around $20,000–$100,000 depending on features.
• Android-only apps are typically a similar price range, though some say Android development takes slightly longer.
• Cross-platform development—if you want to release your app on both iOS and Android—will increase your costs significantly, often requiring separate codebases or more time if you use cross-platform tools like React Native.

Design and User Experience (UX)

The design and user experience (UX) of your app are crucial for success, and they can also impact your budget. Basic designs or using templates can keep costs lower. However, if you want a fully customized user interface (UI) with animations, micro-interactions, or unique visual elements, expect to pay more.

• Basic design: $5,000–$15,000
• Custom design and UX: $20,000–$50,000+
• Top-tier UI/UX: $50,000+

Backend Development and APIs

Many apps require backend systems for data storage, user authentication, or integration with external services (e.g., social media logins, payment gateways). Building a custom backend is usually one of the most expensive parts of app development.

• Basic backend (e.g., user authentication): $5,000–$20,000
• Complex backend (e.g., syncing data across devices, real-time updates): $25,000–$100,000+

App Maintenance and Updates

Don’t forget about ongoing costs! After launch, you’ll need to budget for maintenance, bug fixes, and updates. App development doesn’t end once the app is in users’ hands.

• Expect to pay 15-20% of the app’s initial development cost per year in maintenance.
• For example, if your app cost $100,000 to build, annual maintenance could run you $15,000–$20,000.

Hidden Costs You Shouldn’t Overlook

In addition to development, there are a few hidden costs you should keep in mind when planning your app budget:

1. App Store Fees: Apple charges a $99/year developer fee, while Google charges a one-time $25 fee for publishing on the Play Store.
2. Third-Party Tools and Services: If you’re integrating third-party services, like payment gateways (Stripe, PayPal), or using cloud storage (AWS, Google Cloud), those services come with monthly fees. These can add anywhere from $50–$1,000/month depending on usage.
3. Marketing and User Acquisition: Even if your app is the next big thing, you’ll still need to market it. Consider allocating $10,000–$50,000 (or more) for app launch marketing, social ads, and influencer partnerships.

Can You Build an App on a Budget?

If you’re a startup or small business, the idea of spending $50,000–$300,000 might be overwhelming—but with global mobile app revenues projected to reach $535B this year, it’s a calculated investment. Thankfully, though, there are ways to keep costs manageable:

• Start with an MVP (Minimum Viable Product): Focus on building only the core features and releasing a simplified version of your app. This can bring costs down to $10,000–$50,000.
• Use Cross-Platform Development: Tools like React Native or Flutter allow you to build for both iOS and Android with one codebase, which can save both time and money.
• Use Templates or Pre-Built Components: For less complex apps, using pre-built templates or UI kits can significantly lower design and development costs.

Finding the Right Development Team

Of course, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when building your app is choosing the right development team. Here are some tips:

• Get multiple quotes: Prices can vary widely depending on the development team’s location, experience, and project scope.
• Look for experience: Make sure the team has experience building apps similar to yours. Check portfolios and ask for references.
• Discuss ongoing support: Building an app is just the beginning. Make sure the team offers ongoing support for updates, bug fixes, and maintenance.

So, How Much Does It Cost to Build an App?

To sum it up, how much does it cost to build an app? The cost can range anywhere from $10,000 for a basic app to over $300,000 for a highly complex one. The exact cost depends on the app’s complexity, design, platform, and ongoing maintenance.

If you’re ready to build the next big thing but don’t know where to start or how to budget, reach out to your friendly neighborhood app developers—we’ll guide you through the process from start to finish. Building an app is an investment, but with the right strategy and team, it can pay off in a big way.