If you’ve ever thought about launching an app, you’ve probably asked the big question: How much does it cost to create an app? The answer isn’t as simple as a single number. Think of it like asking how much it costs to build a house; the price depends on the size, design, materials, and the people building it. Apps work the same way.
Regardless of whether you’re creating a basic calculator app, a full-fledged social network, or the next e-commerce behemoth, it’s going to cost something different. In this tutorial, we’re going to dissect what actually goes into app pricing, what drives it higher or lower, and some real-world examples so you can plan appropriately.
For the majority of app projects, prices can vary from $4,000 up to more than $10,000. That’s a broad range, but this is why:
| App Type | Estimated App
Development Cost |
Development Timeline |
| Simple | $4,000 – $5,000 | 3 to 6 months |
| Medium Complex | $6,000 – $9,000 | 9 to 10 months |
| Highly Complex | $10,000 and above | 12+ months |
These estimates are rough figures; your actual cost relies very much on the specifics.
When you read about app prices bandied about online, it’s simple to imagine there’s a standard price. But things are actually a bit different, and there are only a few big things that determine how much you’ll pay.
This is the biggest cost driver by far. The more functionality your app has, the longer it takes to develop and the more skills it requires.
Basic features: Basic navigation, static pages, and standard forms are less expensive.
Advanced features: Chat systems, GPS tracking, video streaming, and AI tools are more costly.
If your app is visually appealing and user-friendly, people will use it more. But good design is not just about colors and fonts; it’s about making the experience of users seamless. Custom animations, special branding, and interactive layouts all require time and cost more than applying default templates.
You will need to choose if your app is created for iOS, Android, or both.
One platform = less expensive and quicker.
Both platforms = nearly two times the work (and price), unless you use a cross-platform tool like Flutter or React Native.
Where your developers are located can greatly alter your bill. The rate of development in the U.A.E., U.S.A., Western Europe, Australia, Eastern Europe, and Asia is $25/hour.
A skilled team in India can deliver an efficient app for less than half the cost of a US-based team, but communication, time zones, and quality checks matter.
If your app needs to store data, process payments, or handle millions of users, you’ll need a strong backend system. This involves servers, databases, and APIs, all of which add to the cost.
The cost of creating an app doesn’t stop at launch. Think of it like owning a car; you’ll need regular maintenance, bug fixes, and feature updates. On average, expect to spend 15–20% of your initial development cost every year to keep your app running smoothly.
Let’s look at some real-world examples of different app types and their usual cost ranges.
Examples: to-do lists, note-taking, simple calculators
Cost: $10,000–$20,000
Why so affordable? They’re quick to build, don’t need complex backend systems, and usually target one platform at first.
Examples: Clothing store apps, online marketplaces
Cost: $30,000–$100,000+
Costs go up because you’ll need payment processing, product listings, user accounts, and sometimes advanced filters and recommendations.
Examples: Instagram, Twitter-like platforms
Cost: $80,000–$250,000+
The cost rises because of real-time messaging, alerts, sophisticated handling of data, and the necessity of high-quality design to engage users.
Examples: Uber, food ordering apps
Cost: $70,000–$200,000+
Apps for on-demand services need GPS tracking, payment systems, and real-time order tracking, all contributing to development complexity.
Examples: Puzzle games, multiplayer online games
Cost: $20,000–$500,000+
Simple 2D apps are cheap, but multiplayer or 3D apps will cost a fortune to produce because of graphics, animation, and servers.
You don’t have to shell out six figures to have an amazing app. Here are some suggestions to cut costs:
Absolutely, with a definite purpose and target audience, developing an app can be one of the soundest investments you ever make. It’s not merely about what you spend initially, but also about the eventual value an app can deliver to your company or brand over time.
A well-designed app can unlock new revenue channels, enhance your customer connections, and provide you with a competitive advantage. But the catch is to begin intelligently: outline your essentials, decide on the optimal development approach, and allocate for continuing expenses.
So how much does it cost to make an app? Between $4,000 and $10,000+, depending on your idea. The more details you provide about what you want, the better quotes you will get and the less chance for surprise.
At Aayan Infotech, we guide you through the whole process of creating an app, with fair pricing and no hidden surprises. We’re here to answer your concerns about your budget. Consult our experts today to assist you through every step, from planning to launching. Call us at +917007120194 or email us at info@aayaninfotech.com
