Mobile app development cost is dependent on a number of factors, such as the app’s complexity, choice of platform, and more. Understanding these factors will help you stay within your budget and get a rough estimate of overall development costs.
So, let’s dive into the key factors that affect the overall cost of mobile app development:
Mobile app complexity
The overall cost of developing an app depends on its complexity. A simple app comes with a basic set of features, such as a dashboard, login system, and user profile. To develop a simple app, you need to spend an average of $5000 to $50,000.
A medium-complex app comes with features such as social media integration, audio and video streaming, etc. The cost of a medium complex app is $50,000 - $120,000.
A complex app could cost somewhere between $100,000 and $300,000 and above. These apps are integrated with the latest technologies, such as AI, AR/VR, and more. They also feature multi-language support, high-end data logic, etc.
App features and functionalities
The next factor that affects the cost of app development is features and functionalities. Therefore, it’s vital to concentrate on the core features in the initial version of the app. The best option is to create an MVP - the first version of an app with basic features. An MVP will help you save time and money and collect valuable user feedback.
App Category
App category is another factor that affects the overall cost of developing an application. When we move from one category to another, a lot of things change, like number of users, functionalities, security criteria, etc. This ultimately impacts the final cost of app development. Some of the app categories that can be built are:
-Ecommerce apps
-Social media apps
-On-demand apps
-Hardware dependent apps
App platform
When opting for app development, it becomes of utmost importance to choose a platform for your application. Depending on your target audience, you can select Android, iOS, web, or cross-platforms. If you are a startup with a limited budget, opt for one platform initially; later on, you can shift to multiple platforms.
App design
To ensure users invest time in your app, it’s important to focus on app design. When deciding on app design, there are two options - Custom and Standard UI. Customized UI is much more difficult to design and implement than the Standard UI, which makes it more expensive.
Focusing on app design helps refine your app’s usage, converting prospective users to regular customers. Consider the number of screens your app must offer for seamless interactions. Also, your wireframe must have a button design that is clearly defined, easy to identify, and the user flow from one page to another is smooth.
All these factors will have an impact on the final cost of app development.
App maintenance
Once the app has been built, you will have to keep adding new features and functionalities to keep up with consumer needs and preferences. This requires additional costs. You also need to take steps to fix bugs and errors. Also, you will have to make sure that your app design is not outdated if you want to keep your users hooked. App maintenance cost is calculated yearly at the valuation of 20% of the whole mobile app development cost.
Keeping the above factors in mind, the average cost of developing an app can range from $45,000 to $350,000 and up. However, this is a rough estimate. It’s better to consult a reliable app development company in San Francisco to get a better idea of pricing and development.