As mobile applications continue to shape the way we interact with technology, businesses are increasingly turning to app development as a way to engage customers, streamline operations, and improve services. However, one of the most common questions among entrepreneurs and companies looking to build an app is: what does it cost to make an app? While the short answer might seem simple, the reality is that the cost of app development in 2025 depends on various factors, from the app’s complexity to the platform it’s built for. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the key elements that contribute to app development costs and help you understand what you need to budget for in today’s competitive mobile app market.
Factors That Influence App Development Costs
Several factors play a role in determining how much it will cost to make an app. These factors can vary significantly based on the type of app you want to develop, the target platform (iOS, Android, or both), and the features and functionalities required. Below are the main elements to consider:
App Type and Complexity
The more complex your app is, the higher the development cost will be. There are three main categories of apps:
Simple Apps: These are apps with basic functionalities such as calculators, to-do lists, or news apps. Simple apps are less expensive to develop, ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the design and platform.
Moderately Complex Apps: Apps that require more advanced features like user authentication, social media integration, or payment gateways fall into this category. They may cost between $50,000 and $150,000.
Complex Apps: High-end apps with advanced functionalities, such as AI-powered features, real-time communication, or multi-platform integration, can cost $150,000 or more to develop. Examples include apps like Uber, TikTok, or Snapchat.
Platform Choice: iOS vs. Android
Choosing between iOS, Android, or both platforms is another major factor that impacts the cost. If you choose to develop an app for a single platform (iOS or Android), the costs will be lower compared to building an app for both platforms.
iOS Development typically costs a bit more due to the higher quality standards and the need to ensure compatibility across different Apple devices.
Android Development might be slightly cheaper due to the flexibility in development tools and the fewer stringent app guidelines compared to iOS. However, Android apps often require additional testing due to the wide range of device specifications.
If you opt for cross-platform development, which allows your app to run on both iOS and Android from a single codebase, the costs will be higher than developing for just one platform but lower than building two separate apps.
Design and User Interface (UI)/User Experience (UX)
The design of the app plays a significant role in its overall development cost. A basic design with minimal graphics may cost around $5,000 to $15,000, while custom, intricate designs with advanced user experience features can push costs upwards of $50,000. The more personalized and interactive the design, the higher the cost. Designing a seamless UI/UX ensures that users have an intuitive and enjoyable experience, which is vital for app success.
Backend Development and APIs
Many apps require backend development to store user data, sync information across devices, or integrate with third-party services. The backend can significantly increase development costs due to server-side programming and the complexity of managing data storage and user authentication.
Moreover, if your app needs to communicate with other platforms, such as payment gateways, social media, or cloud services, APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) will need to be integrated, which adds to the overall cost.
Maintenance and Updates
Once an app is launched, it’s not truly “finished.” Regular updates, bug fixes, and new features are essential to keeping the app relevant and functional. App maintenance typically accounts for about 15% to 20% of the initial development cost annually. It’s important to factor in ongoing costs when planning your budget, as your app will need continuous improvements to stay competitive and user-friendly.
Estimating App Development Costs Using a Mobile App Cost Calculator
A great way to get a rough estimate of your app’s development costs is by using a mobile app cost calculator. These tools take into account factors like the app’s complexity, design, platform, and features, providing an approximate range of what it might cost to develop. However, while the calculator offers a good starting point, it’s crucial to consult with experienced app developers who can refine the estimate based on your unique project requirements. A custom quote from a reputable development agency will give you a more accurate breakdown of the costs involved.
If you're interested in exploring the benefits of mobile app development services for your business, we encourage you to book an appointment with our team of experts.
Additional Costs to Consider: Marketing and App Store Fees
While you may have a clear understanding of the development costs, there are additional expenses to account for when launching your app. For instance, after developing the app, you’ll need to consider the cost to put an app on the app store. Both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store charge fees for app submission and hosting.
Furthermore, once your app is live, marketing and advertising costs will be necessary to drive downloads and usage. You may need to budget for paid ads, influencer partnerships, social media promotions, and app store optimization (ASO) efforts to increase visibility and attract users. These costs can vary widely depending on your marketing strategy but often range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, the cost of making an app can vary widely depending on a range of factors, including the app’s complexity, design, platform, and maintenance needs. While it can be difficult to pinpoint an exact figure without a detailed project scope, understanding the key cost drivers can help you prepare an effective budget. Additionally, using a mobile app cost calculator provides a good starting point to estimate expenses, but always consult with an experienced development team to get a more accurate estimate.
By planning for development, marketing, and ongoing maintenance costs, you’ll be in a better position to launch a successful app that meets your business goals and delivers value to users. And don’t forget to factor in the cost to put an app on the app store—this is a critical step in making your app available to the public.
