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App Development Costs: How Much Does it Cost to Make an App?

February 1, 2024
Product Development, Product Management
1 min read

Creating an app is a significant investment, and understanding the costs involved can help you budget effectively and make informed decisions. Here’s a concise breakdown of what you can expect when it comes to app development costs in 2024.

Factors Influencing App Development Costs

1. App Type and Complexity

  • Simple Apps: Basic functionality, minimal features. Cost: $5,000 — $20,000.
  • Medium Complexity Apps: Integration with third-party services, APIs, real-time chat. Cost: $20,000 — $50,000.
  • Complex Apps: Advanced features like AI, AR, or extensive backend. Cost: $50,000 — $100,000+.

2. Platform

  • Single Platform (iOS or Android): Developing for one platform is cheaper. Cost: $10,000 — $30,000.
  • Cross-Platform: Developing for both iOS and Android using tools like Flutter or React Native. Cost: $30,000 — $60,000.

3. Design and User Experience (UX)

  • Basic Design: Simple UI/UX. Cost: $2,000 — $7,000.
  • Custom Design: Unique design, custom animations. Cost: $7,000 — $15,000.

4. Development Time

  • Simple Apps: Approximately 3–6 months.
  • Medium Complexity Apps: Approximately 6–9 months.
  • Complex Apps: 9+ months.

Key Statistics

  • Average Cost to Develop an App: According to Clutch, the median cost to develop an app is around $50,000.
  • Time to Develop: A simple app takes about 3–6 months, while a complex app can take 9+ months.
  • Maintenance Costs: Post-launch maintenance typically costs 15–20% of the initial development cost annually.

Hidden Costs to Consider

  • App Store Fees: Apple charges $99/year, Google Play charges a one-time fee of $25.
  • Marketing and Launch: Budget for marketing your app to ensure it reaches your target audience. Estimated Cost: $5,000 — $20,000.
  • Upgrades and Updates: Regular updates to fix bugs and add features. Estimated Cost: 20% of initial development cost annually.

Still Unclear? Ping Us!

Understanding the various factors that influence app development costs can help you plan your budget effectively. Whether you’re creating a simple app or a complex one, knowing what to expect financially will set you up for success.