How much does it cost to build an app?

Feb 22

I am often asked for a “rough estimate” of how much apps will cost to build. Here are some basic categories that can help you plan and understand what level of investment your project will require.

I use the example of home construction as a metaphor here, to give you a relatable example, as well as an example of a similar project we’ve developed, for a tactical one. The home-building metaphor will make more sense in the context of our guide to app development (download here).

I hope the following four categories will help you determine the size of your project, the estimated cost, and the level of professionals you may want to hire to assist you.

Very Simple App Development

Building Example

A detached office without plumbing, or maybe just a sink.

App Example

Danielle LaPorte’s Truthbombs — Search, favorite and share daily Truthbombs. Cross-platform iOS and Android Development.

Budget

$20,000-$50,000

Medium App Development

Building Example

A small cabana with kitchen and bathroom.

App Example

Wannaplé’s Silly Street — Game with animations and sound, variety of possible scenarios and workflows, in-app purchase. Cross-platform iOS and Android Development.

Budget

$75,000-$150,000

Complex App Development

Building Example

A modern, beautiful home in the mountains.

App Example

Michael Daniel’s Fayr — Shared co-parenting calendar, chat, private journal, content feed, document and photo sharing, court-admissible PDF reports. Native iOS and Android Development.

Budget

$150,000-$300,000

Complex Application System Development

Building Example

A college campus with multiple buildings.

App Example

Brella’s Suite of Applications — Parent-facing booking portal + teacher, front desk and administrative applications to manage and track all aspects of the business process. iOS, Android and Web Applications.

Budget

$300,000-$600,000+

Of course, pricing depends on who you hire for app development. I have a more complete guide to that question, and other tips and guidelines, in this our free guide to app development.