How much does an app cost? Prices and cost factors

Why app development costs vary so much

Two apps that look alike can be far apart in price. That's usually down to things you don't see on the outside. An app that only shows information is relatively simple. As soon as users need to log in, enter data, pay or communicate with each other, there's a server, database and admin area behind it. That's often the biggest part of the work.

Six factors that determine what an app costs

• Type of app: a web app works everywhere with one version. A native app is built separately for iOS and Android. A cross-platform app sits in between.
• Number of screens and features: every screen has to be designed, built and tested.
• Login and user roles: customers, employees and admins each see and can do something different.
• Integrations: with your accounting software, calendar, payment provider or existing software. Every integration is extra work.
• Design: a standard layout is quicker than a fully custom design with animations.
• Admin area: a place where you manage content, products or users yourself.

Want to understand the difference between the types of apps better? Read native app or web app.

App development cost by type of app

Without knowing your requirements, an exact figure isn't possible. But you can roughly compare the types:

• Web app or PWA: usually the most affordable option. One codebase, no app store approval needed and updates go live straight away.
• Cross-platform app: one codebase for iOS and Android. More expensive than a web app, because publishing in the stores and testing on lots of devices are added.
• Native app for both platforms: often the most expensive route, because you're effectively building and maintaining two apps. But it offers the most possibilities and the best performance.

For many small and medium-sized businesses, a web app is a great start. If the concept works, you can always have an app for the stores built later.

Example: two versions of the same app

Say a hair salon wants an app that lets customers book an appointment. There are two ways to approach it, with very different price tags.

• Version A: a web app where customers choose a treatment and time, get a confirmation by email and can reschedule. The salon sees everything in a simple overview. One version, works on any phone.
• Version B: a native app for iPhone and Android with a customer account, loyalty points, in-app payments, push notifications and a link to the till system. Plus publishing in both stores.

Version B costs several times as much as version A, and needs more maintenance too. Yet version A already solves the core problem: customers book themselves, without phoning. So start by asking what's really needed, and only build the rest once you see customers asking for it.

Costs after launch: maintenance, hosting and app stores

The build price isn't the whole story. Allow for recurring costs too:

• Hosting and database for the server behind the app.
• Maintenance: new versions of iOS and Android regularly require changes. The packages you use get updates as well.
• Developer accounts for the app stores. As a guide: Apple charges an annual fee of around 100 dollars, Google a one-off fee of around 25 dollars. Check the current price.
• Commission on in-app payments, if you sell digital products or subscriptions through the stores. The percentages vary by situation, so check the current rules.
• External services, such as push notifications, email or SMS, which often charge per use.
• Further development: new features based on what users ask for.

Read more about the recurring side in web application maintenance costs. The same principles apply to apps.

Cheap app development: is it possible?

Some developers quote very low prices. That's possible, but look closely at what you get. Often it's a template with your logo on it, or there's no admin area, maintenance or ownership of the code included. Cheap then turns expensive when you want to expand later.

Want to keep your app costs down without sacrificing quality? This approach works better:

• Start with an MVP: the smallest version that already delivers value for your users.
• Choose a web app if you don't need phone features that only a native app can use.
• Use existing services for payments, login or email instead of having everything built from scratch.
• Make a clear wish list. That prevents extra work and discussions halfway through.

Read how to sharpen your idea before spending money in developing an app idea.

How to compare app developers' prices

Getting several quotes? Don't just look at the total. Check what each quote includes: design, admin area, publishing in the stores, testing, training and maintenance. Also ask whether it's a fixed price or an estimate in hours, and who will own the code. You'll find more tips in comparing web agency quotes.

How much does an app cost at Violexa?

At Violexa we build custom websites and apps. A custom website or web application, which includes a web app, starts from €1,799 excl. VAT (€2,177 incl. VAT) per project. That includes design, development, a design that works on every screen, basic SEO and Google Analytics, CMS integration and training. Larger projects get a fixed price up front, in writing.

For maintenance after launch there are packages from €179 excl. VAT (€217 incl. VAT) per month. The first 12 months are fixed, after that you can cancel monthly by email with 1 month's notice.

Want to know roughly what your app will cost? Book a free quickscan. In 30 minutes, online or at your location, we discuss your idea. Afterwards you get short written advice with a price indication, with no obligation.

Frequently asked questions