The cost of building an app in 2025 depends on numerous variables: app complexity, platform choice, design, maintenance, and development method. While a simple app can cost between $10,000–$50,000 for traditional coding, no-code platforms can bring these costs down significantly, starting at just $4,000. For complex apps, coded solutions can exceed $300,000, while no-code options still offer a more affordable path.

This guide dives deep into every aspect of app development costs, offering clarity on budgeting and maximizing value while avoiding pitfalls. Whether you're planning to create a minimal viable product (MVP) or a feature-rich, enterprise-level app, this breakdown will guide you every step of the way.

App Development Cost Overview by Complexity

Coded vs. No-Code Cost Comparison

Source: Business of Apps

Factors influencing these figures include functionality, platform choice, and team location. No-code platforms significantly reduce both cost and development time while simplifying iteration cycles.

Breaking Down the Costs: Development Stages

1. Discovery Phase (10-15% of Budget)

The discovery phase involves defining the app's core purpose, features, and user base. Tasks include market research, wireframing, and creating a project roadmap.

• Estimated Cost: $5,000–$40,000

• Timeframe: 1–4 weeks

• Key Deliverables:

  • Competitor analysis

  • MVP definition

  • Feasibility assessment

2. Design Phase (20-25% of Budget)

The design process shapes your app's user experience (UX) and interface (UI). Custom elements, complex interactions, and branding will increase costs.

• Estimated Cost: $10,000–$50,000+

• Timeframe: 2–12 weeks

• Key Deliverables:

  • Interactive prototypes

  • Wireframes and mockups

  • UI/UX optimization

3. Development Phase (40-55% of Budget)

The coding phase translates your design into a functioning app. Backend and frontend development, feature integrations, and data architecture are key components.

• Estimated Cost: $30,000–$300,000+

• Timeframe: 3–12+ months

• Key Costs:

  • Backend: $20,000–$80,000

  • Frontend: $10,000–$50,000

  • Third-party API integrations: $5,000–$20,000

4. Testing and Deployment (15-20% of Budget)

Testing ensures your app functions flawlessly across devices. Post-testing, deployment involves publishing the app on platforms like the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

• Estimated Cost: $5,000–$50,000

• Timeframe: 2–8 weeks

• Testing Types:

  • Functional testing

  • Regression testing

  • Usability testing

Key Factors Influencing App Development Costs

1. Feature Complexity

More features = higher costs. Simple apps include login and notifications. Complex apps might integrate real-time data syncing, AI, or augmented reality.

Source: GoodFirms

2. Platform Choice

• iOS vs. Android: Developing for a single platform is cheaper than both. Costs are roughly equal for iOS and Android.

• Cross-Platform Development: Frameworks like Flutter reduce costs by allowing one codebase for both platforms.

Source: Clutch

3. Team Location and Rates

The cost of hiring developers varies globally.

Source: Good Firms

Hidden Costs of App Development

1. App Store Fees

• Apple: $99/year

• Google: $25 (one-time)

Both platforms take 15-30% of in-app purchases.

2. Infrastructure and Maintenance

• Servers: $1,000–$20,000 annually

• Updates: $10,000–$50,000 per year

• Bug Fixes: $1,000–$10,000 annually

3. Marketing and User Acquisition

• Ads, SEO, social media, and PR can consume 50-100% of your development budget.

Optimizing Your App Development Budget

1. Start with an MVP

   • Focus on core functionality. Test user response before scaling.

2. Leverage Cross-Platform Tools

   • Flutter or React Native can save time and costs for multi-platform apps.

3. Outsource Smartly

   • Eastern Europe and South Asia offer quality development at lower rates.

4. Use Scalable Infrastructure

   • Opt for cloud solutions like AWS or Google Cloud to reduce initial costs.

Real-World Estimates of Coded App Costs

Real-World Estimates of No-Code Apps Cost

In a Nutshell

• No-code development can reduce costs by up to 5x and cut development time in half compared to traditional coding methods.

• No-code platforms simplify processes like discovery, design, and deployment, reducing upfront design costs by as much as 80%.

• Advanced features like AI chatbots or AR are 2x-5x cheaper to implement with no-code platforms compared to custom coding.

• Examples like Meetaway and Qoins show how no-code apps can achieve significant functionality for under $50,000.

• Key insights into optimizing app budgets, including leveraging no-code platforms for MVPs or startups while recognizing the limits for highly technical projects.

Ready to take the first step? Contact Million Labs today for a tailored app development solution that fits your goals and budget.

👉 Check more recommended resources to Start, Launch and Grow your SaaS:

• Building Your No-Code MVP: A Complete Guide to Launch Within the Next 60 Days

• Mastering App Scoping: The Only Guide You'll Need as A First Time Founder

• Launch to Lift-Off: Maximising Your MVP's Market Entrance