What determines the biggest cost difference between iOS and Android?

Native development requires separate codebases, so building both roughly doubles the development effort compared to a single platform.

Can I reduce costs by using a template UI?

Yes, a template can cut design and front‑end coding time, often saving 15‑30% of the total budget.

How much should I set aside for post‑launch maintenance?

Plan for about 15‑20% of the initial build cost each year to cover updates, bug fixes, and minor enhancements.

Is it cheaper to hire freelancers than an agency?

Freelancers can be less expensive per hour, but agencies often provide project management and QA, which can reduce hidden costs.

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Mobile & web apps

How much does a custom app cost to build?

19 September 2026·Mapt

The short versionBreak down your app into core features, platform choices, and design complexity to get a realistic cost estimate before you start.

Business owners often ask, "How much will a custom app cost?" The answer depends on many variables, and without a clear breakdown you can end up with surprise invoices.

This guide explains the main cost drivers, shows a simple step‑by‑step way to estimate your own project, and tells you what to do next whether you hire a team or start small on your own.

1. Platform and technology choices

The platform you target (iOS, Android, web) is the biggest cost factor. Building native apps for both iOS and Android roughly doubles development time compared to a single platform. A cross‑platform framework (e.g., React Native, Flutter) can reduce the effort, but may add extra testing and performance tuning.

2. Feature complexity

List every feature you need and categorize them:

Core features – user authentication, basic CRUD (create, read, update, delete) operations, simple UI.
Intermediate features – push notifications, payment integration, third‑party APIs.
Advanced features – real‑time chat, AI recommendations, offline sync, custom animations.

Each tier adds roughly 20‑50% more development hours.

3. Design and user experience

Custom UI/UX design, branding, and animations increase both design and front‑end coding time. A simple template‑based design can keep costs low, while a fully bespoke design often adds 15‑30% to the overall budget.

4. Ongoing costs

Don't forget maintenance, updates, and hosting. Most apps require 15‑20% of the initial build cost per year for bug fixes, OS updates, and new features.

5. Step‑by‑step cost estimation

Write a one‑page feature list and label each item as core, intermediate, or advanced.
Choose your platform strategy (native iOS, native Android, both, or cross‑platform).
Assign an hourly rate range (e.g., $50‑$120 per hour for remote freelancers, $100‑$200 for agencies).
Calculate estimated hours: base 200 h for core features, add 50 h per intermediate feature, and 100 h per advanced feature.
Multiply total hours by your chosen hourly rate to get a ballpark budget.

What to do next

Start by drafting your feature list and deciding if a cross‑platform approach fits your timeline. Then use the simple worksheet above to generate a budget range. If the numbers look high, revisit the list and prioritize core features for an MVP. When you’re ready, explore Mobile & web apps to see how a remote, text‑first team can help you stay within budget.