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iOS App Development Cost in 2024: A Comprehensive Breakdown
June 22, 2023
Samantha Jones
Overview
You have chosen the iOS platform to develop a mobile app for your business to reach your potential audience. Now that you are planning your iOS app development budget, the cost of creating an iOS app plays a vital role. This blog is a comprehensive breakdown of iOS app development cost in 2024, the factors that affect the cost of developing an iOS App, and a comparative analysis of iOS and Android App Development Costs.
Quick insight “how much does it cost to build an ios app?” The iOS app development cost is around a ballpark figure of $10,000 – $100,000. If you choose a mobile app development company in the US, other regions might cost you around $5,000 – $100,000.
Experts suggest you choose a professional mobile app development company to get a high-quality iOS app without compromising the quality. Other than the cost mentioned above, several other factors and phases like best languages for iOS app development in 2024 involved in getting the overall cost of your iPhone app development project.
So let’s get started with the iOS App Development Cost Estimation Formula and then make our way to the cost of iOS app in 2024.
iOS App Development Cost Estimation Formula
if you are looking for a quick rough estimate for the average cost of iOS app development, you can have the iOS app development cost formula below:
iOS app development Cost= Platform + UI/UX Design Hours + [Development time x Developers Hourly Rate]
The iOS App Development Cost Estimation Formula helps provide a structured approach to estimating the cost of developing an iOS app. By considering various factors such as app complexity, features, design, development time, and resources required, the formula helps in determining a more accurate cost estimate. This approach ensures that all relevant aspects are taken into account, minimizing the chances of unexpected expenses or budget overruns. The formula acts as a guideline, providing a framework for developers and clients to have a clearer understanding of the cost implications and make informed decisions during the planning and budgeting phase of an iOS app development project.
The average app development cost is around $5,000 to $350,000, depending on app complexity, app size, development team location and more. However, This approach ensures that all relevant aspects are taken into account, minimizing the chances of unexpected expenses or budget overruns.
The iOS App Development Cost formula acts as a guideline, providing a framework for developers and clients to have a clearer understanding of the cost implications and make informed decisions during the planning and budgeting phase of an iOS app development project.
iOS App Development Cost Breakdown Step by Step
the factors that affect the “iOS App Development Cost” are based on several factors according to your requirements from both the perspectives your business and user. To satisfy user needs, it is possible to add more functionality to the app. As a result, your iOS app needs to contain more functionalities geared towards business, such as payment gateways and navigation.
Along with the following variables, we have put together an iOS app development cost check list to make sure you have an insight about these business-driven features are a major role in determining your iOS app development budget:
1. iOS App Size
When the size of your iOS app increases, so do the number of screens and features increases for your iOS app which costs a higher. You should carefully hand pick the features and functionalities that you want in your app before initiating the app development process.
Do a thorough market analysis as well, paying particular attention to things like the devices that people use, the features they value, the barriers to a great user experience, etc. By looking other apps with a comparable app idea, iOS App Development Cost can be estimated. For example if you are looking to get an iOS food delivery app then research the top 5 food delivery apps in USA to brainstorm your app.
Below is a checklist of cost of iOS App cost of developing an iOS app based on the app size:
iOS App Size
Average Development Time
Average Development Cost
Basic iOS app development cost
2-4 months
$10,000-25,000
Complex iOS app development cost
4-8 months
$25,000-50,000
Advance iOS app development cost
8+ months
$50,000-$100,000+
2. Complexity of iOS App
It is a given that an app is considered efficient only when it contains numerous diverse features. The two main aspects that effect the iOS app development costs are the number of features and the complexity of those features. Having said that more complex features can lead to higher apple app development cost. For instance, if you want an app like uber, you may require features or screens for driver and the rider as well. You may also need a Admin panel and many third-part integrations. All of these features and the level of complexity will add to cost to build an app.
Here is your checklist for the cost of iOS app development depending on the complexity of the app.
Here is an overview of the iOS app development cost according to the talent:
4. iOS App Development Team Location
iPhone app development costs can vary based on location. The price for developing an iPhone app in the US is not the same as the iOS app development company in Mexico.
The disparity in the quality and cost of services worldwide is a well-known fact. This variation is especially prominent when comparing the western and eastern regions. Therefore, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of the costs associated with creating an iPhone app:
Region
App Development Cost
India
$20-40/hr
United States
$80-170/hr
Ukraine
$30-100/hr
Australia
$80-200/hr
Russia
$60-150/hr
It’s important to factor in the extra costs associated with launching and maintaining your iOS app, as these expenses can have a significant impact on your overall budget. While the above considerations give a rough estimate of the development costs, it’s crucial not to neglect the post-development procedures. To help you with cutting the iOS App Development costs, TechnBrains offers skilled iOS App Developers at only $99 per day!
5. iOS App UIUX Cost Breakdown
Process
Tasks
Average iOS Development Cost
Research
Market Research Competitor Analysis Latest trends Analysis Selecting Best Solutions
$50 $350
UX Design
Creating rough sketches Making low fidelity wireframes Making high fidelity wireframes
$2000 $10,000
UI design (Visual Design)
Creating mood boards Making UI mockup samples Finalizing UI mockups
$1000 $5000
Branding
Creating brand identity options Shortlisting options Finalizing the best option
$5000 $20,000
Animation and Illustrations
Creating a visual sense of connection between users and on- screen content
$1000 $30,000
The sub-processes involved in designing iOS apps may vary in duration and cost. To provide you with a better understanding of the expenses involved in designing your iOS app, here’s a breakdown of the costs.
6. Cost to Develop an iOS App as per iOS App Categories
Since there are so many different kinds of iOS mobile apps today, the price of each app greatly relies on its category. As we discussed iOS app development price to be $10,000 to 100,000, it may differ depending on the category. Each category has its own features, such as demographics, security requirements, etc. The most popular iOS app categories for 2022 are shown in the following graph.
7. iOS App Development Cost Breakdown as per Developer Location
The cost breakdown of iOS app development can vary based on the location of the development team. It is commonly known that services across the globe differ greatly in both quality and price, with the most notable contrast being observed when comparing the western and eastern regions. Here’s a brief overview of iOS App Development Cost by region:
Region
App Development Cost
India
$20-40/hr
United States
$80-170/hr
Ukraine
$30-100/hr
Australia
$80-200/hr
Russia
$60-150/hr
It’s important to strike a balance between cost and quality when choosing a development team based on location, ensuring they have the necessary skills, expertise, and a proven track record to deliver a high-quality iOS app within your budget.
8. Native vs. Cross Platform Native iOS app cost
When it comes to iOS app development, one important consideration is whether to build a native app or a cross-platform app. Each approach has its own benefits and iOS App Development Cost implications. Let’s explore the cost factors associated with native and cross-platform iOS app development.
Native iOS App Cost
Developing a native iOS app involves using Apple’s official programming language, Swift, and leveraging the iOS development ecosystem. Here are some cost considerations for native iOS app development:
Development Time: Native apps are specifically designed for iOS devices, utilizing the full capabilities of the platform. However, developing separate codebases for iOS can require more development time, leading to higher costs.
Specialized Skills: Native iOS app development often requires specialized skills in Swift or Objective-C. Finding experienced iOS developers may come at a premium, impacting development costs.
User Experience: Native apps offer a superior user experience as they are optimized for iOS devices. However, achieving a high-quality user experience may require additional design and development efforts, contributing to the overall cost.
Maintenance and Updates: Native apps require ongoing maintenance to ensure compatibility with new iOS versions and address any bugs or issues. These maintenance and update costs should be factored into the budget.
Cross-Platform iOS App Cost
Cross-platform app development allows you to build an app that runs on multiple platforms, including iOS and Android, using a single codebase. Here are some cost considerations for cross-platform iOS app development:
Development Time and Effort: Cross-platform frameworks like React Native or Flutter enable code sharing, reducing development time and effort compared to building separate native apps. This can result in cost savings, especially for complex apps.
Skill Set: Cross-platform development may require developers with knowledge of specific frameworks or programming languages, such as JavaScript or Dart. Assessing the availability and expertise of developers can impact overall costs.
User Experience and Platform Limitations: Cross-platform apps strive to provide a consistent user experience across platforms. However, there may be limitations in accessing platform-specific features or achieving the same level of performance and native feel as with native apps. Addressing these limitations may involve additional development and cost.
Maintenance and Updates: Cross-platform apps benefit from code sharing, but they still require maintenance and updates to address platform-specific changes, bug fixes, and feature enhancements. These ongoing costs should be considered in the budget.
Ultimately, the cost of native iOS app development versus cross-platform development depends on the complexity of your app, the desired user experience, available development resources, and long-term maintenance needs. Careful consideration of these factors will help you determine the most cost-effective approach for your iOS app development project.
Cost to develop an iOS app with API Integrations
The cost to develop an iOS app with API integrations can vary depending on various factors. These factors include the complexity of the app, the number of APIs to be integrated, the size of the development team, and the geographical location of the development company.
Typically, developing an iOS app with API integrations requires skilled developers proficient in iOS app development and API integration. Their expertise and experience contribute to the overall cost.
1. Payment API Integration
Integrating payment APIs is an absolute necessity when building an eCommerce iOS app. Without this integration, your customers will not be able to make secure and hassle-free payments using their preferred banking methods. You must consider using popular payment integration APIs and systems, such as:
Payment Gateways
Transactional Charges
Monthly Charges
PayPal
2.9% + $0.30 per transaction
No fees $30 for PayPal Payments Pro Package
Stripe
2.9% + $0.30 per transaction
None
Authorize.net
2.9% + $0.30 per transaction
$25
Braintree
2.9% + $0.30 per transaction (No fees for the first $5000 processed)
None
Apple Pay
1% + $0.25-$10 for instant transfer
None
For skilled iOS developers who are familiar with Apple’s payment APIs, adding payment gateways to your iOS app is a straightforward process.
2. Third-Party API Integration:
3rd Party Integration Service
Key Features
Average Cost to Integrate
Google Maps
Navigation or Geolocation Access
$200
Facebook APls
Authentication & Authorizing
$200
Skyscanner API
Get flight search, ticket prices, and live quotes for travelling
$100
Movie Database API
To access movie titles, IMDB rating, runtime, release date, awards, plot, and lots of other data
$600
Booking API
To access accommodation queries, facilities, prices, and other info from hotels around the world
$800
When developing iOS software, it is common practice to incorporate third-party API integrations. These integrations allow third-party users to access and manipulate the app’s functions. Popular social media platforms such as Google and Facebook are among the examples of such APIs. To facilitate your iOS app development, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the most frequently used third-party API integrations and their associated costs.
iOS App Development Factors Hidden Costs
iOS app development involves various factors that contribute to the overall cost. However, there are also hidden costs that can arise throughout the development process. Here are some factors to consider:
Compatibility and Testing
Ensuring your app works seamlessly across different iOS devices, screen sizes, and operating system versions requires extensive testing, which can incur additional costs.
App Store Guidelines
Apple has strict guidelines for app submission. If your app does not comply, you may need to make modifications or resubmit, leading to potential delays and extra expenses.
User Interface Localization
Adapting your app’s user interface for different languages and regions can involve translation and localization services, which come with their own costs.
Ongoing Maintenance and Updates
As iOS releases new versions and updates, your app needs to be compatible. Regular maintenance and updates to fix bugs and ensure optimal performance can require continued investment.
Third-Party Integrations
If your app requires integration with third-party services or APIs, licensing fees, data usage charges, or API access fees may apply, adding to the development cost.
Security and Data Privacy
Implementing robust security measures and ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations might require additional resources, expertise, and investments.
App Marketing and User Acquisition
Launching an app successfully often involves marketing efforts, user acquisition campaigns, and strategies to increase app visibility. These marketing expenses should be factored into the overall cost.
It’s crucial to consider these hidden costs when planning your iOS app development budget to ensure a comprehensive and realistic financial estimation. Do not worry; we have provided a list of these requirements below so that you won’t miss anything.
Hidden Cost Factors
Average Cost /Year
Data storage
$500
CDN
$150
App developer account cost
$99
Annual iOS updates
$1000
Monitoring and maintenance
$4,000-12,000
iOS App Development Process
As an iOS app development company, there are several steps involved in the iOS app development process. Here’s an overview of the typical process we follow:
1. Idea Generation
We work closely with you to understand your app idea, target audience, and business goals. We brainstorm and refine the concept to ensure it aligns with your objectives.
2. Planning and Strategy
We create a detailed plan that includes defining app features, functionalities, and user flow. We consider factors like platform compatibility, device support, and monetization options.
3. Design
Our design team creates a visually appealing and intuitive user interface (UI) design for your app. We focus on providing a seamless user experience (UX) and ensuring the app adheres to Apple’s design guidelines.
4. Development
Our iOS developers write code using programming languages like Swift or Objective-C. They implement the planned features and integrate the UI design into a functioning app. We follow best practices to ensure the app is secure, efficient, and scalable.
5. Testing
We conduct rigorous testing to identify and fix any bugs, glitches, or performance issues. This includes functional testing, compatibility testing across various iOS devices and versions, and usability testing to ensure a smooth user experience.
6. Deployment
Once the app is thoroughly tested and meets the desired quality standards, we submit it to the App Store for review. We handle the submission process, including creating an Apple Developer account, configuring app metadata, and adhering to Apple’s guidelines.
7. App Store Optimization (ASO)
We optimize your app’s listing in the App Store to improve its visibility and increase downloads. This includes creating compelling descriptions and screenshots, optimizing the app’s icon and managing the app store ratings and reviews.
8. Maintenance and Updates
After the app is launched, we provide ongoing support, maintenance, and regular updates. This includes addressing user feedback, fixing bugs, adding new features, and ensuring compatibility with new iOS versions.
Throughout the entire process, we maintain open communication with you, providing regular updates and seeking your feedback at key milestones. Our goal is to deliver a high-quality iOS app that meets your requirements and exceeds your expectations.
Comparative Analysis of iOS and Android App Development Cost
iOS and Android are the two dominant mobile operating systems, each with its own unique characteristics and development requirements. When it comes to app development costs, several factors can influence the overall expenditure. Here, we’ll provide a comparative analysis of iOS and Android app development costs.
Market Share and User Base
iOS devices, such as iPhones and iPads, have traditionally attracted a more affluent user base. These users are generally more willing to spend on apps and in-app purchases. On the other hand, Android has a larger market share globally, with a wider range of devices and users from diverse economic backgrounds.
Development Time
iOS app development typically takes less time compared to Android. This is due to a variety of factors, including a more standardized hardware ecosystem and a limited number of iOS devices to optimize for. Android, with its fragmentation across devices, screen sizes, and operating system versions, often requires more development and testing time.
Design and Development Tools
iOS app development relies on Apple’s integrated development environment (IDE) called Xcode, which is only available on macOS. Android, however, benefits from the flexibility of using different IDEs, such as Android Studio and Eclipse, which are compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. The choice of tools and platforms can affect development costs, particularly if developers need to acquire new hardware or software licenses.
Development Language and Resources
iOS apps are primarily developed using Swift or Objective-C programming languages. Swift is a more modern language that offers advantages in terms of code readability and development speed. Objective-C is the older, more established language used in legacy iOS apps. Android apps are typically developed using Java or Kotlin, with Kotlin gaining popularity due to its concise syntax and improved safety features. Availability of developers skilled in specific languages can impact development costs.
Testing and Device Fragmentation
Android’s extensive device fragmentation poses a challenge for developers. They need to test apps across a wide range of devices, screen sizes, and operating system versions to ensure compatibility and a consistent user experience. This can increase testing time and costs. iOS, with its limited device lineup, has a more controlled environment for testing, resulting in potentially lower testing costs.
App Store Submission and Approval
Submitting an app to the Apple App Store involves a review process to ensure compliance with Apple’s guidelines. Although this can lead to a longer approval time, the review process helps maintain a certain level of quality and security. On the other hand, Android apps are typically published on the Google Play Store with a less stringent review process, resulting in faster approval times.
Monetization and Revenue Potential
While iOS users tend to spend more on apps and in-app purchases, Android’s larger user base can lead to higher potential revenue through advertisements and in-app purchases. Monetization strategies and revenue potential should be considered when estimating app development costs.
It’s important to carefully analyze these factors and consider your target audience, business goals, and budget when deciding which platform to prioritize or whether to develop for both platforms simultaneously.
Factors
iOS Development Cost
Android Development Cost
Market Share and User Base
Higher spending users
Larger user base
Development Time
Less time
More time
Design and Development Tools
Xcode (macOS)
Android Studio, Eclipse
Development Language
Swift, Objective-C
Java, Kotlin
Testing and Device Fragmentation
Controlled testing environment
Device fragmentation testing
App Store Submission and Approval
Stringent review process
Less stringent review process
Monetization and Revenue Potential
Higher spending users
Larger user base potential revenue
iOS App Development Benefits
As an iOS app development provider, we offer several benefits that can enhance your app development experience and maximize the potential of your iOS application. Here are some key advantages we offer:
Access to a Lucrative Market
iOS boasts a large and affluent user base that is willing to spend on high-quality apps and in-app purchases. By developing an iOS app, you can tap into this lucrative market and potentially generate substantial revenue.
Enhanced User Experience
Apple’s stringent design guidelines and consistent hardware ecosystem enable us to create visually appealing and intuitive iOS apps. We prioritize delivering a seamless user experience, resulting in increased user satisfaction and engagement.
Better App Performance
iOS apps are known for their exceptional performance and responsiveness. With our expertise in iOS app development, we optimize the code, leverage the platform’s capabilities, and follow best practices to ensure your app runs smoothly and efficiently.
Greater Security and Privacy
iOS prioritizes security and privacy, providing robust protection against malware and unauthorized access. By developing an iOS app, you can offer users a secure environment for their data, enhancing their trust in your application.
Timely Updates and Compatibility
Apple regularly releases iOS updates, ensuring improved features, security patches, and compatibility with new devices. We stay up to date with the latest iOS versions and provide timely updates to keep your app compatible and functional across various devices.
Seamless Integration with Apple Ecosystem
iOS apps seamlessly integrate with other Apple devices and services, such as Apple Watch, Siri, Apple Pay, and iCloud. This integration enhances user convenience and offers additional functionalities for your app.
Extensive Development Tools and Resources
Apple provides comprehensive development tools like Xcode and a wide range of APIs and frameworks. Our expertise in utilizing these tools empowers us to create innovative features, optimize performance, and deliver a polished iOS app.
Dedicated Support and App Store Assistance
We offer ongoing support throughout the app development process, from concept to launch and beyond. We guide you through the app submission process, ensuring compliance with Apple’s guidelines, and provide assistance with App Store optimization.
By choosing us as your iOS app development partner, you gain access to these benefits, enabling you to reach a thriving market, deliver a superior user experience, and achieve your business objectives effectively.
Our Take on Creating a High-Quality iOS Application
At TechnBrains, we strive to create high-quality iOS applications that exceed expectations. Our approach combines technical expertise, creative design, and a user-centric mindset to deliver exceptional results while keeping iOS app development cost in mind. After a thorough analysis of the iOS industry reports, iOS app development costs around $10,000 to $100,000 depending on factors like app complexity, app size, development team location, and more.
We collaborate closely with you throughout the development process, seeking your feedback and insights to align the app with your goals. This helps manage the overall iOS app development cost effectively.
Our experienced team of iOS developers utilizes the latest tools and technologies to create robust and efficient code. We follow industry best practices and coding standards to ensure the app’s stability, security, and performance while keeping iOS app development cost manageable.
Our talented designers create engaging user interfaces that enhance usability and make your app stand out, without compromising on the iOS app development cost. We pay attention to every detail, from color schemes to typography, to create a visually cohesive and delightful user experience.
By gathering insights from real users, we fine-tune the app’s features and functionality to ensure it meets the needs and expectations of your target audience while maintaining a reasonable iOS app development cost.
With our dedication to excellence, we deliver high-quality iOS applications that are not only visually stunning but also user-friendly, reliable, and scalable. We commit to provide an exceptional experience to your users, all while controlling the iOS app development cost.
Contact us now to have an estimate cost to develop an iOS app!
FAQs
Q: How do you know if an app costs money?
App prices are typically displayed on the app store. You can check the app’s listing on the Apple App Store or contact the app developer for pricing information. If the app has a price, it will be mentioned clearly. Visit our website to explore our app development services and find cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs.
Q: How do I know if an app costs money?
To determine if an app is free or paid, you can visit the Apple App Store or app marketplace on your device. App prices are usually listed on the app’s page. If there is a cost associated with the app, it will be clearly mentioned. Check out our website to discover our range of app development services and find cost-effective solutions. Contact us for a personalized quote.
Q: How much does it cost to publish an app on the Apple Store?
The cost to publish an app on the Apple Store involves the annual developer membership fee, which is currently $99 (USD) per year. This fee allows you to submit and distribute apps on the App Store. Additionally, there may be costs associated with app development, app store optimization, and any third-party services utilized. Get in touch with us for a detailed cost breakdown and guidance on publishing your app on the Apple Store.
Q: How much does it cost to make an iPhone app?
The iOS app development cost is around a ballpark figure of $15,000 – $350,000. If you choose a mobile app development company in the US, other regions might cost you around $5,000 – $100,000. The cost of developing an iPhone app depends on various factors, including complexity, features, design, and development time. We offer customized app development solutions tailored to your budget and objectives. Contact us today for a free consultation and quote to discuss your iPhone app development needs.
Q: How much does it cost to have an app on the app store?
The cost of having an app on the app store includes various aspects such as app development, app store optimization, and ongoing maintenance. The development cost varies depending on factors like app complexity, features, design, and platforms. We offer competitive pricing for app development and can guide you through the process of having your app on the app store. Reach out to us for a personalized cost estimate and assistance in getting your app on the app store.
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