The cost to build an app can range from free, to a few hundred dollars, to hundreds of thousands. The final price tag depends entirely on how you choose to build it and the features you include. This guide will break down the different costs so you can find the right path for your budget and app building goals.

We’ll explore the factors that influence app development costs, from custom coding to using an app builder. You'll learn what to expect with each option and get a clear picture of how to create a professional app without breaking the bank.

TL;DR: How much does it cost to build an app?

Development method	Typical cost (US$)	Best for
Hiring a freelancer	$5,000 - $50,000+	Simple projects with a clear scope.
Working with an agency	$50,000 - $500,000+	Complex, large-scale projects needing a full team.
Using an app builder	$0-500 a month	Small businesses and entrepreneurs wanting speed and affordability.
Building in-house	Varies greatly	Companies with an existing development team and resources.

How to figure out your app cost

Estimating the cost of your app doesn't have to be complicated. By breaking it down into a few key decisions, you can create a realistic budget. These steps will guide you through the process, helping you understand where your money goes and how to invest it wisely.

1. Map out your app's features

2. Choose your development path

3. Factor in design costs

4. Plan for ongoing maintenance

01. Map out your app’s features

The complexity of your app is the biggest factor driving its cost. An app with basic features like displaying information and contact forms will be much cheaper than one with user accounts, payment processing and real-time notifications. Start by making a list of all the features you absolutely need for your app to be useful.

Then, create a "nice-to-have" list. These are features you can add later in updates. This approach, known as building a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), helps you launch faster and on a smaller budget. Focusing on the core functions first allows you to test your idea in the market before investing in more advanced capabilities.

You can build an app for free if its basic features and functionality and with an app builder like Base44 you can build one with more advanced functionality from $16 a month.

Learn more about how much Base44 costs.

02. Choose your development path

You have a few options for turning your idea into a reality and each comes with a different price. Hiring a freelance developer or a full agency is the traditional route to building an app. This gives you a completely custom product but is also the most expensive option, often running into tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.

A newer and affordable approach is using an AI app builder, like Base44. These platforms allow you to create a powerful, native app without writing any code. With an AI chat and pre-built features, you can design and launch your app for a predictable monthly fee. This option saves a significant amount of money and time. It also means your costs are up front from the start.

03. Factor in design costs

A great app needs a great design. If you hire a freelancer or an agency, you’ll also need to budget for user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design. A designer will create the look and feel of your app, to make sure it's both beautiful and easy to use. This can add several thousand dollars to your total cost.

When you use an app builder, design tools are often included. You can choose from professional app templates and customize the colors, fonts and layouts to match your brand. This integrated approach saves you the cost of hiring a separate designer while still giving you the power to create a polished, user-friendly app.

04. Plan for ongoing maintenance

The costs don't stop once your app is launched. You'll need to account for ongoing maintenance, updates, and bug fixes. App stores update their requirements, and new operating systems are released, so your app will need regular attention to keep it running smoothly. This can cost 15-20% of the initial development cost annually.

With an app builder, maintenance and updates are typically included in your subscription. When you build an app with AI generally the platform handles all the technical upkeep, from server management to compatibility with new devices and operating systems. This simplifies your budget into one predictable monthly or annual payment and frees you up to focus on growing your app users or monetization.

How much does it cost to build an app FAQ

Is building an app expensive?

Traditional app development is expensive because it requires a team of skilled specialists, including project managers, UX/UI designers and developers for both iOS and Android. Their time adds up quickly, especially for complex projects. Using an AI app builder, like Base44, bypasses much of this cost by providing a platform that handles the technical work for you.

Can I build an app for free?

While some app builders offer free plans, they are usually very limited and may include ads or branding you can't remove. Building a truly professional, fully functional app that you can publish on the app stores typically requires some investment. However, app builders make this investment significantly lower than traditional development.