How Much Does It Cost To Develop an iOS App?

iOS app development is becoming a frequent venture for established companies and startups. Consequently, how much it costs to make an iOS app is among the first asked by customers who approach us with their projects. Naturally, everyone is interested in the price above anything else. Still, it would help if you remembered that it is a multifaceted aspect that depends on the app’s properties, developers, and their hourly rates, additional features to add, and user preferences.

Studies have found that iOS users make in-app purchases more often and spend more on apps than their Android counterparts. It’s no wonder startups choose an iOS platform for their first app development endeavor. However, it is essential to understand the average iOS app development cost before diving into project development headfirst. In this article, we will sort out everything you need to know.

iOS App Development Cost Estimation Formula

The most precise way to calculate the iOS app development cost is to use a universal formula that works regardless of your business niche. While estimating the price, you must consider the platform for which the application will be developed (in our case, iOS), the UI/UX development hours, the development time, and the hourly rate of the developers employed. In the graph below, we have depicted the exact cost calculator.

Factors that Determine Cost of iPhone App Development

When you ask yourself how much it costs to develop an iOS app, you must understand that the final cost will depend on the sum that comprises effective and successful app development. These factors include but are not limited to:

• UI/UX design hours. UI/UX design is the central pillar of any mobile application, not just iOS. Depending on the complexity of your project and the design features you want to add, the hours required by your designer or team of designers might vary. However, they still contribute significantly to the iOS app development costs as they include hourly rates of the specialists and additional expenses that might arise in the design process (for example, purchasing additional development resources);
• Platform-wise app development hours. When developing an application, it’s essential to consider the features of the platform you are making it for. Making an iOS app requires a deep knowledge of the software, its technical characteristics, and particular demands that set it apart from other types of mobile software. Therefore, it is essential to employ specialists who are knowledgeable about the peculiarities of iOS and have previous experience working with it;
• Backend served errors. These errors can undermine the overall development time, sometimes significantly. Even if you have assembled a team of the best tech professionals, only some startups are guarded from failure. Therefore, you must estimate the potential of backend served errors and their types in advance so that you know how exactly these challenges might hinder the development process and thus raise the iOS app development cost;
• Hourly rate of developers. The hourly rate of every iOS specialist depends on their position (junior, middle, or senior), years of experience in the sector, and even their country. Unlike all the other aspects, this one can be estimated precisely most of the time when you are just employing developers on your team.

All these aspects come together in a simple formula to help you answer the question, “How much does it cost to develop an iOS app?” Use the scheme in the picture below to estimate your product’s approximate price.

iOS App Development Cost Based on Size

Different niches and project types require different app sizes. Often, it is clear how big the iOS app will be once the first draft version is ready. However, app size is a legitimate indicator that can help developers make a more precise prediction about the estimated cost range and even the accurate final price of the product. In the table below, we have gathered information on the average development costs you can expect for different iOS app sizes.

 The complexity of the iOS app

The cost of IOS app development depends heavily on its difficulty. The difficulty, in turn, involves factors such as UI/UX, app category, brand identity, team size, and other hidden costs associated with the process.

 iOS app category

Another factor on which the cost of an iOS app creation depends is the category, or the business sector, in which the application intends to sit. The top spots are typically taken by popular niches such as entertainment, utilities, lifestyle, education, business, and games. Some subtleties must be considered, impacting the product’s final price. When you calculate how much money does it costs to create an app for iOS, consider the following sectors it can fall into:

• Entertainment apps are usually the ones used for video and audio streaming and other types of entertainment content. Their complexity is often medium to high due to their interactivity and close association with social media accounts. Some examples include TikTok, Netflix, and Spotify.
• Utility apps include essential functions like calculators, currency converters, and note-taking tools. Given that their UI/UX requirements are minimal, these apps are usually low to medium in complexity. Some examples are weather apps, flashlight apps, and simple task organizers or planners.
• Lifestyle apps are all about user convenience. They involve interaction with social media profiles, location-based features, and e-commerce offerings. Although relatively simple and non-demanding, such applications require appealing and remarkable UI/UX design. Some apps that fall under this category are fitness trackers, dating apps, and delivery apps.
• Education apps simplify learning processes in multiple spheres. Their complexity is difficult due to the large number of interactive modules, quizzes, live streaming classes, games, and large amounts of data and information uploaded into the app. Popular examples include Duolingo and Coursera.
• Business apps are needed to improve workflows and productivity. They often feature CRM tools, cloud integration, reporting dashboards, and communication capabilities. These apps are medium to high in complexity because they require strong security.
• Gaming apps are commonly known as highly complex and expensive to develop. They can include 2D or 3D graphics, multiplayer functionality, AR/VR features, and monetization offers. These apps require complex coding, advanced design, and detailed testing, which tends to spike their development costs. The prominent iOS gaming apps include Candy Crush, Pokémon GO, and Fortnite.

The precise calculation of an iOS app cost must consider the app category. Once you define the umbrella under which your future application falls, you can estimate the price according to the development process peculiarities that pertain to each category.

iOS app design

Design is the next important factor that influences development price. A high share of the whole app budget is dedicated to its visual component. Therefore, we have compiled a list of key design features impacting the cost to develop an iOS app​.

• UI Design. When thinking “how much does it cost to create an apple app”. You need to understand simple layouts with standard templates and minimal customization could be less costly. These designs focus on usability first and foremost, which makes them cost-effective and quicker to develop. Ideal for small businesses or apps with a singular purpose;
• Number of Screens. Each additional screen increases the workload for designers and developers. Apps with more screens require careful planning and thus increase both time and cost;
• Custom UI/UX Design. Unique interfaces that reflect the brand’s identity, including specific layouts, icons, and themes. Custom designs call for more skilled developers and complex feedback processes, contributing to higher costs but also ensuring a distinctive user experience;
• Animations and Transitions. Smooth animations, engaging transitions, and micro-interactions enhance the app’s user experience but are resource-intensive to create. These elements demand additional coding and testing, driving up the overall expense;
• Device Compatibility. iOS apps need to work smoothly on different Apple devices. Building a fitting design for various display sizes adds to the design complexity and cost;
• Brand Identity Integration. Apps requiring strong alignment with branding elements need additional time for refinement;
• Advanced Features. Integration of AR/VR interfaces, real-time 3D graphics, or interactive dashboards significantly impacts costs;
• App Tests. Every design element needs rigorous testing to perform well across devices and OS versions.  

When calculating how much does it cost to make an iOS app you need to include some budget for design. Design is the face of your app and the main factor determining its usability. Therefore, we recommend allocating the most time and resources for careful and on-point design planning. While simple designs are relatively cheap, if you resort to advanced or custom UI/UX, expect the product price to spike. Therefore, align your design expectations with the actual budget to avoid possible unpleasant surprises in the aftermath.

Backend as a part of the IOS app development

When you think “how much does it cost to develop an iOS app”, you need to include the backend to your calculations, as the backend plays a crucial role in managing data, user authentication, and server-side logic. Let’s explore some key components and considerations for integrating a backend into your iOS app development. 

Choose a backend service

You can build your own server using frameworks like Node.js, Django, or Ruby on Rails or you can opt for Backend as a Service (BaaS). For this service you can use platforms like Firebase, AWS Amplify, or Parse Server for quicker setup and scalability.

API development

Design RESTful or GraphQL APIs to facilitate communication between the iOS app and the backend. Ensure proper authentication and authorization mechanisms (e.g., OAuth, JWT).

Database management

Choose a database that fits your app’s needs (e.g., SQL databases like PostgreSQL or NoSQL databases like MongoDB). Implement data models and relationships based on your app’s requirements.

Data synchronization

Ensure that data is synchronized between the app and the backend, especially for real-time features. Use WebSockets or push notifications for real-time updates.

Error handling and logging

Implement error handling in both the backend and the iOS app to manage issues gracefully. Use logging tools to monitor backend performance and troubleshoot issues. Test your backend thoroughly using tools like Postman or automated testing frameworks. Deploy your backend on cloud platforms like AWS, Heroku, or DigitalOcean.

Security considerations

Protect sensitive data with encryption and secure communication (HTTPS). Regularly update dependencies and monitor for vulnerabilities.

By carefully planning and implementing these components, you can create a robust backend that enhances your iOS app’s functionality and user experience. If you have specific questions or need further details on any aspect, feel free to ask!

iOS app development team size

The team you plan to engage in developing your product is another aspect that contributes to the overall budget. iOS development tech teams tend to be relatively small, but each expert has a designated role and oversees a particular development aspect. In addition, it is essential to streamline healthy and adequate communication within the team so that product development is not hindered by possible clashes or varied opinions on the same issue.

 A standard iOS app development team is comprised of such experts as:

•     Project Manager
•     Tech Lead
•     Business Analysis
•     Technology Expert (Blockchain, AI, IoT)
•     iOS Developer
•     UI/UX Designer
•     Quality Analyst

For incredibly complex projects, you might need to employ several experts for the same position. For example, if your app involves an intricate UI/UX design, it is better to have at least 2 or 3 designers work on the project. Besides, no one is fully safeguarded from such unexpected changes as team substitutions or even simple sick leaves; therefore, you must always have an immediate replacement in mind should one of your professionals step away.

Development team location

As we have defined the position of the tech team in the development process of an iOS app, it is also worth mentioning that the hourly rates of specialists can vary, sometimes drastically, depending on their origin and the country they work from. It is a no-brainer that some countries have higher hourly rates, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that the work of a cheaper specialist will be of a worse quality.

How much does it cost to build an iOS app with the help of a team of dedicated professionals? In the table below, we have gathered the most common hourly rates of iOS developers depending on the country.

iOS app launch

When you ask yourself how much it costs to create an Apple app, you likely already have the app launch process in mind and, perhaps, are even stressing about it. Indeed, the launch procedure itself is more complex than it may seem. We have broken down the key steps of the process below.

• App Store Submission. To submit apps to the App Store, developers must enroll in the Apple Developer Program for $99/year. The app must be fully developed and tested before submission;
• Apple Review and Approval. Once you submit the app, it must be reviewed by Apple. The company checks for compliance with the guidelines, and if the product is in line with all the requirements, it can be released;
• Marketing Activities. Marketing strategies can contribute a lot to an app’s success. Costs for these activities depend on the campaign type and its scale;
• Maintenance and Updates. After the app is launched, developers need resources for updates or fixes. These expenses can vary based on the app’s complexity.

When you calculate the price of launching your iOS app, consider these launch steps and the costs that might be associated with each.

iOS app maintenance

After launching your iOS app, there are still important things to do. Every application requires regular maintenance, which includes updates, troubleshooting, changes in design, and the addition of new features. During maintenance, you should check user feedback and dwell on it when improving the application. Consequently, the question of how much it costs to develop an iOS app depends on the regular maintenance costs. Find a more detailed cost to develop IOS app breakdown below.

Constant Updates

The central aspect of any iOS app maintenance is ensuring it will work properly with the latest iOS versions, features, and security standards. Apple often releases new iOS versions with updates to APIs, privacy guidelines, and system features. You must test and modify your app to stay compatible with the updates.

Troubleshooting bugs

Bugs can occur in any app, so troubleshooting is another critical task. Bugs often appear after system updates or user interactions. When users inform developers about issues or QA specialists identify bugs during testing, developers must work quickly to resolve them.

Changes in the design of the app

As user expectations shift, periodic changes to the app’s design are necessary to keep it up-to-date and user-friendly. Sometimes, you might need to fix the layout slightly, and sometimes, you need to completely change the UI/UX so that the app is more intuitive, attractive, and trendy.

Hidden iOS App Development Costs You Should Know About

When asking yourself how much it costs to build an iOS app, it’s easy to focus on apparent costs like design, development, and marketing. However, several hidden costs can occur during the app development process. Here are some of the less obvious but essential expenses you should be aware of:

• Apple Developer Program Fees. To publish an app on the App Store, you must enroll in the Apple Developer Program, which costs $99 annually. This fee grants you access to development tools, app submission capabilities, and access to beta versions;
• Third-Party Service Integrations. Many apps rely on third-party services for features such as analytics, geolocation, or social media logins. For example, Firebase, Twilio, Stripe, and other APIs charge based on usage, and these costs can rise quickly as your app grows in popularity;
• Backend Infrastructure. You’ll need to invest in cloud hosting services for some app types. Such platforms usually have free tiers, but for high-traffic apps, the cost can rise;
• App Store Fees. When you sell an app or offer in-app purchases, Apple takes a 15-30% commission on all transactions made through the App Store;
• App Testing and QA. While development teams generally conduct internal testing, you may need to find additional testers for comprehensive quality assurance (QA). This is especially true if you plan to check the application on several devices and iOS versions;
• App Marketing. While initial app development is a significant cost, marketing your app is equally important to ensure it gains popularity on the market;
• Post-Launch Support. Ongoing support, bug fixes, and updates are required after the app is launched;
• App Localization. To expand your app to international markets, you must localize it to various regions. Localization can be a significant investment, with costs depending on the number of languages and countries you plan to target.
• Monitoring Tools. You might want to integrate complex analysis instruments, such as Google Analytics. Subscription fees for analytics tools depend on the level of insight and data usage.
• Security Measures. Securing your app is critical, especially if it deals with sensitive user information. You can secure your app by using encryption and two-factor authentication (2FA). However, security measures can add additional expenses to your budget.

The cost of developing an iOS app has both evident and hidden expenses that you must consider. You can use a cost estimate template to plan out all the overt and potential costs involved in your product development.

Comparative Analysis of iOS and Android App Development Cost

iOS app development is known to be relatively faster and cheaper compared to its Android counterpart. However, once you look closer, you will see that the comparison is based on several aspects. We have highlighted the factors that set iOS development costs apart in the table below.

Comparative Analysis of iOS and Android App Development

When asking how much it costs to make an iOS app, it’s always better to estimate the price compared to Android app development. While doing so, you can dwell upon the following factors.

High Revenue Potential

iOS is the more lucrative platform for app developers since iOS users usually have higher incomes and they are up to paying for apps and in-app purchases than Android users. In contrast, Android has a more extensive user base, but its users make purchases less often, and the platform’s revenue mainly relies on ads. Thus, iOS is often better for developers who want to monetize their apps more effectively.

Uniformity in Devices

Another advantage of iOS over Android is the unified system across devices. iPhones are manufactured only by Apple, which makes the app optimization process easier. This reduces the complexity and time required for development and testing. When it comes to Android, the wide range of devices makes it harder to make the app compatible with all of them, increasing the development and test costs.

Better Security Standards

When it comes to security, iOS generally shows better metrics than Android. Apple’s strict app review guarantees that only secure apps appear on the App Store, which lowers the chances of security breaches. On Android, the open nature of the platform and the variety of third-party app stores can cause more potential security risks.

Faster Deployment and Updates

iOS has an advantage in terms of deployment speed and frequency of updates. Since Apple controls both hardware and software, updates to iOS devices are quicker to go live. The updates can be slow on Android due to the variety of manufacturers, device models, and carriers involved.

3 Exceptional Tips To Reduce The Average iOS App Development Cost

As reported, the global app market is likely to grow by 8.83% by 2027 and reach a volume of $673.80 billion. After calculating the cost of creating an Apple app, you might want to reduce the price with adequate methods. Below, we will provide several recommendations that can help you cut the budget without compromising on the quality of the final product.

1. Minimal Viable Product Development

Focus on developing the most important features first to reduce initial costs. An MVP lets you test your app’s concept without any serious financial losses. Startups especially recommend and frequently use MVPs.

2. Ensure Efficient App Testing

Use automated tools where possible and focus on key features and functions of your app. This helps detect problems quickly and reduce costly revisions and delays later during development.

3. Outsource Your IOS App Development

You could outsource iOS developers from regions where the labor costs are low. When you outsource talents, you can save money and have access to experienced experts who can deliver high-quality work within your estimated budget at the same time.

How Can A-listware Help You with iOS App Development?

The question of how much it costs to build an iOS app will be manageable once you have a team of reliable professionals working on your product. An outsourcing solution provided by A-listware can become the key to everything. After we analyze your iOS app plan and its key features, we will handpick the required professionals according to your expectations.

Contact us today with your project description, even if it’s just a sketch, and we will answer all of your questions, including how much it costs to create an app.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does it cost to make a mobile app?

There is no precise price estimation as it depends on the software, sector, development team, and the specialists’ hourly rates, design, and extra features you want to add to your product.

Why does it cost so much to make an app?

Typically, the prices are high due to the app’s complexity. When an app has an intricate UI/UX design and multiple interactive features and is made in a highly competitive niche, the overall costs tend to spike.

Is it profitable to make an iPhone app?

Yes, a well-developed and secure iOS app is likely to bring profit that surpasses the development budget in the long run, especially with the right marketing strategy.

How long does it take to build an app?

The timeframe depends on the type of your app, its complexity, and extra features. In addition, it may vary based on the time it takes you to gather a team of certified developers. Luckily, with an outstaffing solution provided by A-listware, you won’t have to worry about the latter, as our team will find the best professionals who meet all your preferences.

Can you make an Apple app for free?

You can develop an Apple app by yourself for free using Xcode. However, to publish it on the App Store, you need to pay $99/year for the Apple Developer Program membership.