Find a Mobile Software Developer near you
The average rating for Bark Mobile Software Developers is 4.9, based on 111,473 reviews
5/5
based on 111,473 reviews
Need to bring your business into the twenty-first century with a mobile software developer, but not sure of the cost? Read on to find out how much you’ll pay for mobile software development, from basic apps to complex functionalities, and more!
Research shows that there are more mobile phones than people, and there are more than 8.9 million apps to choose from. It's no surprise, then, that so many businesses realize they could stand out and gain or retain more customers with a brilliant app.
Mobile apps have revolutionized how we do business. They offer a direct line of communication to your customers and can streamline countless operations. But for small business owners, the prospect of investing in an app can seem daunting, particularly when it comes to understanding the associated costs.
Understanding mobile app development costs is crucial. It not only helps you plan your budget but also ensures you're investing in a way that aligns with your business goals and expectations. In this guide, we'll demystify the cost of mobile app development to help you make the right decision for your company.
Ready to find an app developer right away? You can request free quotes from expert app developers suited to your needs here!
With people spending more time on their mobile devices than ever before, it’s no surprise that mobile applications (also knows as apps) are dominating the online world. If you’re a business, it pays to connect with your customers through a mobile application. Whether it’s increasing accessibility, building brand awareness, or improving customer loyalty, the benefits are endless.
But if you’re thinking about putting together a mobile application overnight, think again. Being able to build an effective mobile app requires years of experience and training. If you’re serious about creating an effective app for your business or personal use, you’ll probably need to bring a software development expert in.
Different from a website developer, who creates applications for the internet, a mobile software developer creates more complex applications for use on computers and mobile devices.
Gauging how much you'll spend on developing an app is pretty difficult unless you know what you want first. As with many design and web services, including website development, the final cost of the project depends on how complex the product is. It's often a case of getting what you pay for, and it's rare to find a developer who can create an aesthetically-pleasing and complex app without charging accordingly.
In this price guide we're focusing on small and medium business owners, not corporations, in order to narrow it down a but.
Project rates are a fixed cost associated with the project's completion. To decide how much you'll pay for the project, a mobile app developer will work with you to develop a clear understanding of your business aims and the functionality you want, make suggestions, and once everything is agreed give you a quote based on how long they think it will take to make
This route is often beneficial when the scope of the work is well-defined from the outset because you know exactly what you're going to pay - there are no surprises, and you can budget easily.
For a simple app on only one platform (e.g. Android), a small business owner can expect a project rate that starts at $5,000 and reaches up t $10,000 depending on complexity. Of course, it's possible to go far over this value - some businesses will pay up to $100,000, but at that points you're probably a far larger corporation with money to burn!
| Average cost (in total) | $7,500 |
| Minimum cost (in total) | $5,000 |
| Maximum cost (in total) | $10,000 |
If you opt for an hourly rate, the developer charges a price per hour for their work. This setup is more flexible as it can accommodate changes to the project mid-way through. It’s often the choice for longer, less-defined projects which are expected to evolve or which will require ongoing maintenance once launched. On average, hourly rates in the US can vary from $50 to $250 per hour, with most professional developers settling around the $100 mark.
For those who can't commit to an ongoing contract but still want more control over their budget, a daily rate might provide the ideal middle ground. These rates often hover around the $400-$800 mark, again depending on your needs and the experience of the developer. Bear in mind that daily rates are less usual than hourly or project charges.
As we've already established, the kind of app you want means the cost of development can vary vastly. But there are also some other factors that come into play, and these can raise (or lower) the price tag accordingly.
The cost can significantly fluctuate depending on where the developer is based. While app developers in cities like New York boast high-quality but pricey talent, you can find skilled developers in other regions at a more modest rate. Remote developers are also becoming increasingly popular, providing globally competitive prices without sacrificing quality. It's all about the cost of living - if you use a developer from or in a location with high price tags, your bill will rise accordingly.
The experience of your App Developer will also influence costs. An industry newbie will charge much less than someone with years of experience and an impressive portfolio. Here’s a rough estimate of differences in hourly rates depending on experience:
| App Developer experience | Hourly rate |
| Junior | $30 - $50 |
| Experienced | $100 - $150 |
The choice here reflects your peace of mind versus your budget. An agency means a cohesive team, often with a wider array of skills, but their collective expertise comes at a cost—less autonomy over the project and a higher price tag. A freelancer can be more cost-effective, but you bear the risk of their individual capability and reliability. Our advice? Talk to agencies and freelancers, and decide who suits you the best.
In essence, both platforms use different languages for programming, which is more time-consuming for the developer. Android and iOS apps each have their own benefits and disadvantages, so remember to do your research into which platform is better suited for your project and business aims - or ask your software developer for advice. Historically, iOS apps cost more to develop and maintain due to a meticulous review process and the need to accommodate a smaller range of devices and screen sizes. Android, with its open-source nature, has traditionally trodden a more cost-effective path. However, the gap is lessening, and the decision should not only hinge on price but also your target market's platform of choice.
In short: if you want a simple app developed for on platform only, you'll pay the average $5,000-$10,000. But two platforms means twice as much work, and potentially two different professionals if they specialize in one platform only. Ask yourself which platform your customers are on, and if the answer is 'both' - which it often is - factor this into your budget too.
Should you pay for an app developer to come into the office, or are you happy with remote work? In recent times, with communication technology at an all-time high, the value of proximity in software development has diminished. Remote developers can offer compelling prices without forfeiting accessibility or reliability. If you want someone to develop your app in person, you might end up paying for it, as the cost of travel and their extra time will probably be factored into their prices. Of course, in-person development has its perks, such as better team cohesiveness. Decide what you're most happy with - and what you don't mind paying for.
The type of app you're envisioning is yet another financial influencer. A simple content-driven app will be less costly than a complex e-commerce app or one integrated with advanced features like real-time geolocation or AI. Here are some app features you may want to include which typically increase costs:
In-app purchases - In app-purchases provide a function where customers can make purchases within the app. This increases the price as it takes time to integrate them with a third party.
User engagement features - User engagement features, such as functionalities for clicks, likes, comments, and shares, can be quite simple or extremely complex. The more interactive and sophisticated, the higher the cost.
Location services - Location-based marketing tools like Geofencing are complicated and time-consuming to install - and time is money!
Savings are a song of enduring appeal to any business owner. Here are strategies to help you cut costs without cutting corners:
Start with a basic version of your app and test it in the market. This not only reduces the upfront cost but also mitigates the risk associated with a larger initial investment.
Before you engage a developer, consider investing time rather than cash. Draft a clear, detailed plan with designs and specifications. This preliminary work can save you considerable developer hours and fees.
A Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is a bare-bones app designed to fulfill its core purpose and gather user feedback. This approach hones in on essential features, slashing development time and initial costs. You can then use that feedback to hone your app and make sure you're spending time (and money) on the features that really matter.
And the last point - obviously, shopping around is a great idea! Instead of going for the first developer you come across, gather a few quotes through companies like Bark, chat to some potentials, and make a decision when you have a better picture of the cost.
The bridge between your budget and is the developer you choose. Consider these criteria when making your selection:
Look for developers who are upfront about their pricing structure. Hidden costs could quickly offset a seemingly low hourly rate.
While entry-level developers might offer enticing rates, a seasoned professional with a strong portfolio could prove a more strategic investment in the long run. Decide if it's worth paying a little more for someone with better experience in your particular field.
The right fit might not be the cheapest option but, it's paramount. Cultural fit and workflow compatibility can impact the success of the overall project, making it wiser to invest in a developer who shares your vision and work ethic.
Costs vary, but the truth remains constant: app development is an investment! It's an investment in your business continuity and your customer's convenience. It's an investment that, when approached with due diligence and realistic foresight, can yield significant returns.
In the increasingly digital landscape, a mobile app could be your small business's most profound statement yet. Make it boldly and brilliantly, with a cost that fits and a team that ensures your app's future—and in turn, your business's—is as dynamic as the device in everyone's pocket.
Boost your company’s digital presence and find a Mobile Software Development Expert on Bark.
The average rating for Bark Mobile Software Developers is 4.9, based on 111,473 reviews
5/5
based on 111,473 reviews
