How Much Does It Cost to Build a Mobile App in 2026?
Mobile app cost depends most on the platforms you target, how much custom functionality the app has, and the backend behind it. Supporting both iOS and Android, adding a custom backend, and integrating services like payments, maps, and push notifications all move the price.
$15,000 – $150,000
Typical range for mobile app development. Your exact price depends on scope.
Building a mobile app typically costs between $15,000 and $150,000. A simple app with a few screens and basic backend runs $15,000–$40,000, a standard app for both iOS and Android with payments and integrations costs $40,000–$80,000, and a complex app with real-time, AI, or offline features can reach $80,000–$150,000. Building cross-platform for both stores from one codebase is the biggest cost saver.
Cross-platform frameworks such as React Native and Flutter now let you ship to both app stores from a single codebase, which typically cuts the cost of a two-platform app substantially versus building each one natively. The tiers below show what different budgets deliver.
mobile app cost by size & complexity
Simple app
$15,000 – $40,000
4–8 weeks
A focused app with core screens and a light backend.
- A handful of screens
- Cross-platform (iOS + Android)
- Basic backend & auth
- Standard UI components
- Published to the stores
Standard app
$40,000 – $80,000
2–4 months
A polished app with custom design and real functionality.
- Custom UI/UX
- Payments & subscriptions
- Push notifications
- Several integrations
- Backend + admin panel
Complex app
$80,000 – $150,000
4–7 months
A feature-rich app built for scale and advanced use cases.
- Real-time or offline features
- AI / advanced logic
- Complex backend
- High-polish design
- Scalable infrastructure
Figures are market-rate ballparks shown as ranges, not a fixed quote.
What affects mobile app development cost
Platforms
iOS-only or Android-only costs less than supporting both; cross-platform bridges the gap affordably.
Native vs cross-platform
Native apps can cost more for two platforms; React Native or Flutter share one codebase.
Backend complexity
Apps that sync data, handle accounts, or power real-time features need a substantial backend.
Design
A distinctive custom interface and animations cost more than standard components.
Integrations
Payments, maps, chat, push, and third-party APIs each add build and testing work.
Maintenance
App stores, OS updates, and devices change constantly, so budget for ongoing upkeep.
How the budget breaks down
Defining the app, platforms, and scope.
Mobile-first design, flows, and interactions.
Building the app and its backend.
Testing across devices and OS versions.
Publishing to the App Store and Play Store.
How to reduce mobile app development cost
Build cross-platform with React Native or Flutter to cover both stores from one codebase.
Launch on one platform first, then expand once the app proves itself.
Start with standard UI components and add custom polish later.
Reuse an existing backend or use managed backend services.
Ship a focused first version and add advanced features in updates.
Estimate your own mobile app cost
Use the free project cost estimator for a tailored range.
mobile app cost — frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to build a mobile app?
A mobile app typically costs $15,000–$150,000. A simple app runs $15,000–$40,000, a standard app for both platforms with payments and integrations $40,000–$80,000, and a complex app with real-time or AI features $80,000–$150,000. Platform choice, backend complexity, and integrations drive the range.
Is it cheaper to build a cross-platform app?
Usually, yes. Cross-platform frameworks like React Native and Flutter let you ship to both iOS and Android from one codebase, which typically costs less than building and maintaining two separate native apps — often a meaningful saving for apps that don't need deep platform-specific features.
What are the ongoing costs of a mobile app?
Budget for backend hosting, third-party services, the Apple ($99/yr) and Google ($25 one-time) developer accounts, and ongoing maintenance to keep the app working as operating systems and devices change. A maintenance retainer for updates and fixes is common and recommended.
How long does it take to build a mobile app?
A simple app takes 4–8 weeks, a standard app 2–4 months, and a complex app 4–7 months. Supporting both platforms, a custom backend, and advanced features all extend the timeline.
What's the cheapest way to build a mobile app?
Keep the scope tight, build cross-platform to cover both stores at once, launch a focused first version, and use managed backend services instead of building infrastructure from scratch. Adding features in later updates keeps the initial investment small.
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