Asking a developer “How much does it cost to create an app” is a bit like walking into a car dealership and asking how much a car costs. However, you can have certain prices and certain timing, as long as you know in advance some features that you want to give your app. 

If you go to a software house with only one question about the cost, the answer can only be “it depends”. Think about it: buying a Lamborghini is not like buying a second-hand basic Panda, registered in 1993.

Just as a station wagon is not a city car. But, if in these cases the product differences are better known than the general public, what do you have to communicate to your software house so that they can clearly give you the cost of an app?

App Development Cost: Here's What It Depends On

The cost of app development is like any other service. You have to consider the hours that developers spend to develop, the training that this entails, but also the prestige of the software house and the quality of the final product.

Knowing these factors allows you to save a lot on the final result, without penalizing quality. Of course, on some aspects it is impossible to cut: an app for managing a restaurant will never be like aCustomer management app for e-commerce, just to give two common examples, of varying complexity. 

Let's look at the cost items for an app. 

1) The type of app

As mentioned, you need to understand the features you need. Do you need to create a warehouse management app? A customer offer management system?

Or an app that makes it easy to pay for your products or services? 

Additionally, you need to decide whether you want to create a native or hybrid app, and whether you want to distribute it on Android or iOS, or both. A native app for both Android and iOS will take twice as long to develop.

Practical advice

• Find out how many different pages the developer needs to make? Imagine the app, maybe brainstorming first, and then trying to figure out how many screens you need. The developers will certainly modify your project for the better, but at least you can get a rough idea;
• If you don't even know what "native app" means, it's time to read our short article on difference between native and hybrid apps;
• Don't lose heart: every app and software development company has its own packages with relative prices.

2) Extras that affect the cost of an app

Let's take some examples: in your e-commerce app it might be essential to have a chatbot in italian, to communicate purchase information directly to the customer. Or, you may want a multi-platform app that is easy to integrate with your existing software. 

You will definitely want a perfectly designed app responsive, which works well on tablet and smartphone, or that works via the Internet...

All these aspects are essential for some, while others prefer to leave them out. But they require more hours of work from the developer, so the app development cost increases.

Practical advice

• Get an idea of ​​the app development news. They will give you an idea of ​​what extra features your app will need;
• Check the website of the software house you have chosen. You will see what services they offer and whether they count any extras separately, or if they are included in the package.

3) Design in the cost of app development

Imagine how much it costs to create a new design for the app, trendy and immediately trendy. Luxury cars don't dare to cut this cost: it's a question of brand!

Likewise, several companies do not cut on the design cost, and give carte blanche to the software house to create a trendy product. Others, however, in the name of cutting the costs of creating the app, opt for a pleasant product, even if cheap.

Let's be clear: there are extremely functional apps that have cut back on design, focusing instead on the costs of point 1 (type of app) and point 2 (any extra features). 

However, a UX/UI design, that guesses exactly the user's needs, and gently pushes them to purchase or to become loyal would be much better... right? Custom design is, of course, an additional expense.

Practical advice

• Get your priorities straight: how important is it to create an app that is fast and responsive?
• Think about the design: you are satisfied with the right colors, which perhaps recall those of your logo, or you want to invest a little more for a truly competitive design;
• Talk to your app developer and get advice. In some cases, the image is essential and it is worth investing in. For internal apps it may not be essential;
• Get ideas from around! App stores often show images from the app itself. You can look through them and get an idea of ​​the design you would like for your business app. 

4) "I changed my mind"

It can happen that you start a project with an app development company, but then halfway through you realize that changes are needed. It happens very often that the developer has to add, remix, rewrite everything from scratch. 

It is completely legitimate to change your mind, but all of this affects the cost of app development.

It is essential to try to have a clear project in mind, right from the start.! 

Practical advice

• Take the time to evaluate your project. Think carefully about the pros and cons of the solutions you have chosen;
• Choose an app development company that is customer-focused: this allows you to have their undivided attention the first time you present your app project.

A software house that is truly attentive to the needs of its customers will be able to give you advice on how to improve the project right from the start, without having to go over the details again at the end of the process.

Only in this way will you save on the cost of the final app!

5) In addition to the app development cost there is maintenance!

The app also needs constant maintenance to align with the latest releases of the platforms and stores. 

If you have a bug, a slowdown, but also a regular update, you will need the support of the company you have chosen to be with you as soon as possible.

Practical advice

• Don't forget to mention the app maintenance methods and costs when you ask for a quote!

Bottom line: How much does an app cost?

Every business has its own specific needs, but in general we can say that developing an app costs from €2000 and up.

If you want a multi-platform app, with integrated electronic payments and other extras, then be prepared to spend a bit more. 

But remember: It's not just the price that matters! It is far more important to select experienced professionals who can help you with your business strategy and who will follow a project with you.

From start to finish. So, toarmed with a good idea, and ask for your quote!

Want to know more? Read the 5 Things to Know Before Building an App!