How Much Does It Cost to Build a Mobile App in 2024? Breakdown and Tips
Understanding Hourly Rates vs Fixed Pricing in Mobile App Development
When it comes to mobile app development costs in 2024, businesses often face the dilemma of choosing between hourly rates and fixed pricing. Hourly rates vary depending on the region and expertise of developers. In North America, developers charge between $100 to $250 per hour, while in Eastern Europe, the rates range from $30 to $100 per hour. Fixed pricing, on the other hand, is a predetermined cost for the entire project, usually used for small to medium-sized apps with well-defined requirements. While fixed pricing offers budget predictability, hourly rates provide flexibility for ongoing enhancements.
Mobile App Development Cost Breakdown by Complexity
The complexity of an app significantly impacts the cost of development. Here’s a general cost breakdown:
- Basic MVP (Minimum Viable Product) App – Costs between $10,000 to $50,000. Ideal for startups testing their app idea with essential features like user authentication and basic UI.
- Moderate Complexity App – Costs between $50,000 to $150,000. Includes database integration, third-party APIs, and custom UI/UX designs.
- Enterprise-Level App – Costs between $150,000 to $500,000+. These are feature-rich applications with advanced security protocols, AI/ML integration, cloud storage, and real-time data analytics.
Hidden Costs in Mobile App Development You Should Be Aware Of
Many businesses focus only on initial development costs, overlooking hidden expenses that come later. Some major hidden costs include:
- App Maintenance and Updates – Regular updates, bug fixes, and performance optimizations cost approximately 20% of the original development cost per year.
- Third-Party API Integration – Costs range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on API complexity and licensing fees.
- App Store Fees – Google Play charges a one-time $25 fee, while Apple App Store has an annual fee of $99.
Get a Free Custom Quote for Your Mobile App Development
If you are considering building an app, it’s essential to get an accurate estimate based on your requirements. Contact us today for a free, custom quote to bring your app idea to life!
