So, you have an app idea in your mind!
Well, everybody has ideas and that’s why there are 3.3 million Android apps & 2.2 million iOS apps on Google Play Store & Apple App Store respectively. (Source: BusinessofApps)
Surprisingly, the numbers are showing no signs of slowing down!
But here’s the catch!
No matter what kind of app idea you have, it’s fruitful only if it comes within your budget, isn’t it?
It’s pretty simple- You don’t want to embark on a mobile app development journey that may cost you a fortune, do you?
That’s why, you should consider the mobile app development cost to keep your finances in check without jeopardizing your startup.
But when it comes to getting started with the mobile app development journey, the sole question that strikes the doors of our mind is– How much does it cost to build a mobile app in 2024?
Let’s dive into the classification of costs involved in the mobile app development project without further ado.
Table of Contents:
What is an App Cost Calculator?
An app cost calculator is an online tool that provides an estimated breakdown of the expenses involved in developing your app. The app cost calculator can help you determine the cost of building an app. The cost varies based on factors such as the device, functionality, integrity, UX, and more. You can use our app development cost calculator to get a quick estimate, and we can provide a manual quote range or ask for more details to determine a fixed cost for app development.
Whether you’re planning to build a web application, a mobile application, or both, this tool is designed to give you a clear overview of the costs associated with your project.
How Does an App Cost Calculator Work?
An app cost calculator helps you estimate the total expenses involved in your mobile app development project. It distinguishes between the costs of mobile app development and web app development, providing a detailed breakdown.
The calculator factors in the cost of integrating various features such as notifications, geolocation, payment gateways, and chatbots. It also gives an overview of more advanced elements, including the type of UI/UX design, the structure of the development team, and the costs associated with implementing cutting-edge technologies like AR, VR, machine learning, robotic process automation, and artificial intelligence.
After knowing what it exactly means, let’s understand the mobile app development cost and its associated details.
An Estimate of Mobile App Development Cost Based on Different Stages
If someone tells you the exact “X” amount required to build a mobile app without knowing your needs, it’s a big red flag. Remember that mobile app development cost depends on a multitude of factors, including the app’s complexities, design, technologies to include, development team location, and so on. Here, we’ll classify the cost of mobile app development based on its lifecycle;
#Stage 1: Discovery/Pre-Research Stage
It is the first and initial stage that deals with comprehensive market research, analyzing customers’ behaviour, the latest trends, MVP Concept and strategizing the clear roadmap. When you hire a dedicated mobile app development agency in the USA, they will perform these activities and then move on to the designing phase.
| Time Required: 50+ hours (3-4 weeks) Estimated Cost: $1000+ |
#Stage 2: Designing Stage
The first impression is always the last. Remember that if you want to convert your users into customers, prioritize the UI/UX design of the app. When your app is infused with a stunning layout, beautiful icons, fonts, and smooth animations, your target audience will likely interact and engage with your mobile app. Speaking of the activities involved, the second stage includes software prototyping, user experience design, and visual (UI) design.
| Time Required: 4 Weeks Estimated Cost: $2,000+ |
#3. Development Stage
Once you’re done with the designing stage, it’s time to proceed with the mobile app development stage. Remember that the more complex your features are, the higher the time and cost will be involved. This stage is important and requires significant time and cost to execute. When you hire dedicated app developers, they will leverage cross-platform app development frameworks and other features, including data encryption, third-party integration, technology involved, app architecture, storage, and more.
| Time Required: 2-3 months+ Estimated Cost: $10,000+ |
#4. Final Testing & Deployment
It is the final step that acts as a deciding factor in your mobile app development cost. Once the app development project is about to launch, it’s important to test the app before its launch. When you do so, it will prevent your app from potential crashes, glitches, and lags. Furthermore, post-deployment support is important to ensure the app is running seamlessly across the devices and platforms.
| Time Required: 4 Weeks Estimated Cost: $3500+ |
Well, that’s how a mobile app is built!
But have you ever wondered- What are the driving factors behind these costs? What actually decides the mobile app development cost?
Let’s dive in!
Top Deciding Factors Behind the Mobile App Development Cost
No matter what kind of app you want to build, the final cost depends on a lot of factors. Let’s discuss the key factors that can decide the cost of mobile app development in 2024.
#1. Complexity of the App
It’s pretty simple- if you want to build a basic app, it may cost you more or less $5000 and can go up to $20,000. The basic version of the app includes fundamental aspects such as a login system, user profile faculty, dashboard, and more.
But, on the other hand, if you want to build a medium-complex app then the cost may reach above $20,000. These kinds of apps generally include additional features like social media integrations, payment gateway, audio/video streaming, user privacy, and more.
Finally, an enterprise-grade or complex app may cost you up to $50,000, depending on the technology used. These apps come with features like multi-lingual support, animations, and high-end content.
#2. Prioritize App Features & Functionalities
The main answer to the question- “How much does it cost to build a mobile app in 2024?” lies in the inclusion of features and functionalities.
The type of mobile app you want to build decides its cost. If you want more features, the cost will rise. But if you’re a startup with a limited budget then try to add minimal yet core features in the app. Once you start gaining traffic and results, ask your professional developers to add features to build an enterprise-grade app.
Remember that the initial mobile app development cost might not go beyond $10,000. It includes basic features such as;
- User Login
- Profile Completion
- Messaging
- Push Notifications
- Basic Admin Panel
Speaking of the complex or enterprise-grade apps, the cost may go up to $50,000, depending on the additional feature you want to include;
- Payment Integration (Transaction history, add debit/credit card, balance check, multiple payment gateways).
- Maps (Pickup & Destination Point)
- Calls (Audio/Video calls)
#3. App Category
Ask a newbie about mobile app development and they will simply start thinking every app is the same. But the truth is somewhat different! The complete mobile app development cost depends on the type and category of app you want to build.
Let’s say if you want to build a dedicated eCommerce app like Amazon then you might need to invest a lot of time and effort. These apps are loaded with features and functionalities and should be fortified with state-of-the-art technologies and security measures.
Note: If you want to proceed with eCommerce app development, hire the best mobile app development company in the USA with 8+ years of industry experience and a proven track record of delivering 700+ projects.
On the other hand, if you want to get started with social media app development, you may need to stretch your budget a bit, unlike other apps.
Let’s take a look at the estimated cost to build a mobile app for multiple categories.
| App Type | Estimated Cost |
| eCommerce App | $30,000- $50,000 |
| Social Media App | <$50,000 |
| Dating App | <$50,000 |
| Learning App | $40,000- $50,000 |
| Gaming App | <$50,000 |
#4. App Design
It is another major factor that plays an incredible role in deciding the mobile app development cost. When it comes to app design, developers have two paths to choose from, Standard and Custom UI. The former is ideal for startups and businesses with limited budgets while the latter demands time and effort but will likely provide a seamless user experience and drive measurable business results.
Furthermore, if you want to make the most out of the mobile app development design, try to include engaging animations and illustrations for better audience engagement.
Speaking of the mobile app design cost, it may include;
| Parameters | Details |
| App Design & Research | <$100 |
| UX Designing | <= $3500 |
| Branding (Logos, Icons, & social media) | <$10,000 |
| Animations | <$8000 |
| Visuals | <$15,000 |
#5. Type of Platform
Once you’re done figuring out the mobile app development cost related to researching and designing, it’s time to choose a platform to proceed. Depending on your target audience, you can build iOS, Android, or cross-platform apps. If you’re in the initial stage or have budget constraints, it’s wise to choose one platform.
Let’s take a look at the mobile app development platforms to choose from;
- Native App Platform: These kinds of apps are specifically built for a single platform, either Android or iOS. The former is done on Java or Kotlin while the latter is done on Swift and Objective-C.
- Cross-Platform: It is one of the best ways to reduce mobile app development costs and save significant time. These kinds of apps run on both Android & iOS platforms to target a substantial customer base.
- Hybrid App Platform: One of the coolest things about hybrid apps is that they are a combination of both native and web apps.
| App Platform | Estimated Cost |
| Native Apps | $40,000 to $50,000 |
| Cross-Platform Apps | $20,000 to $40,000 |
| Web Apps | $20,000 to $35, 000 |
| Hybrid Apps | <$50,000 |
#6. App Maintenance
If you think that your mobile app development cost is now over, you’re probably mistaken! Remember that running a business is a never-ending process. As an owner, you’ll have to keep your app updated with changing market trends.
Once you deploy your app, you will need to invest in the mobile app maintenance cost to ensure it’s free from bugs. Thus, you should keep an eye on it at regular intervals to prevent unexpected crashes. Furthermore, you should be updated with the latest design trends. Remember that if you’re not providing innovative or modern design, your competitors will. Thus, you might lose your customers in the long run.
Now, that you have got an idea of the complete mobile app development cost, it’s time to prepare your budget and proceed with the mobile app development project! You can also get an instant estimate using our mobile app cost calculator.
But wait a minute!
Though we have answered the question “How much it cost to build a mobile app in 2024”, there’s no chance that every business will embrace it for their project.
Moving ahead, let’s take a look at proven tips to minimize the mobile app development cost.
Tips to Reduce the Mobile App Development Cost
If you are a startup or even an established business with budget constraints, here are the tips to minimize the cost of mobile app development.
#1. Focus on Essential Features
Before your mobile app development journey, you should prepare a list of the features to include in the app. If you try to incorporate all features, it would lead to additional expenses. Furthermore, conduct market research to identify what features your audience is looking for. Not only does it help save time and effort but it also helps save a significant amount of money.
#2. Prioritize Cross-Platform
One of the best ways to reduce the mobile app development cost is to prioritize cross-app development platforms to target customers across all platforms. If your customers are on Android & iOS then instead of building two apps for both, try to create a cross-platform mobile app that runs seamlessly across both platforms.
#3. Choose Between Inhouse or Outsourcing
Before you choose anyone, pause your thoughts for a while and think- How can you communicate with them? Do they have any experience? What technologies do they use? To differentiate between in-house and outsourcing, the former is a scenario where you hire mobile app developers (which is indeed a time-consuming task) while the latter is all about hiring an experienced mobile app development company in the USA that caters to your needs and budget.
#4. Don’t Compromise on Hiring Professionals
Now, you know that hiring app developers is worth more than calling an in-house team of developers. But before making a call, research to know about their experience, expertise, hands-on experience, and more to ensure you’ll hire the best mobile app development agency in the USA for your project. If you just run into any random agency for the sake of saving money, you might end up compromising your app and most importantly, your business reputation.
#5. Trust Your Gut
With all the information related to the mobile app development cost on your plate, it’s time to take a deep breath and move on to the hiring part. Prepare a budget and then get in touch with a trusted mobile app development company in the USA to get your project started. Remember that a credible app development agency will never guarantee you anything and first understand your needs before making a move.
Final Thoughts
That’s a wrap to the comprehensive guide to the mobile app development cost in 2024! No matter whether you’re a startup or an MNC, the cost involved in building a mobile app does matter a lot. After reading the post, you may have got the idea of the mobile app development cost required to turn your dreams into reality.
Excited to outsource your mobile app development project to professionals? If so, look no further than EitBiz!
We are a leading mobile app development agency in the USA that efficiently builds and deploys modern mobile apps for all devices and platforms. We leverage modern programming languages, frameworks, libraries, and agile methodologies for your project to keep your mobile app development cost to a minimum without compromising on its quality.
Get in touch with EitBiz at +1(812)530-6300 or mail your queries to info@eitbiz.com to get a free consultation from our mobile app developers!
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Mobile App Development Cost
- How much does it cost to build a mobile application in 2024?
The average mobile app development cost starts from $5,000 to $50,000, depending on the type and complexity of the app.
- How much does it cost to maintain an app after deployment?
In the first year of app launch, the mobile app maintenance cost can be 50% of the initial development cost. However, after some time, the yearly budget can go down to 15% of the total mobile app development cost.
- How much does it cost to design a mobile app?
The cost of mobile app design depends on a multitude of factors. However, the general mobile app design cost may go up to $15,000.
- Is mobile app development profitable?
Yes, building a mobile app may let you enjoy incredible benefits. It is surprising to see that more than 15% of Android developers and 25% of iOS developers earn over $5000 via apps.
