How Much Does It Cost to Make an App? Use Our Instant Calculator
Wondering how much it costs to build a mobile app? Our App Cost Calculator provides a fast and reliable estimate based on real industry data โ covering platforms, features, complexity, design, integrations, and development region.
How accurate is this app development cost estimate?
This calculator uses average market rates, feature complexity, and regional multipliers to generate a reliable estimate. While your final quote may vary depending on specific requirements, our estimate is generally 80โ90% accurate compared to real project proposals.
What factors influence app development cost the most?
Based on real industry data, the biggest cost factors are:
- Platform choice (iOS, Android, or cross-platform)
- Number of features and their complexity (chat, payments, GPS, AI, etc.)
- App category and user flows
- Backend and API integrations
- Design sophistication and animations
- Development region (Asia, Europe, USA)
Why does app development cost vary by region?
Hourly development rates differ across countries. On average:
- Asia: Most cost-effective rates
- Eastern Europe: Balanced costโquality ratio
- USA/UK: Premium pricing
These differences significantly affect overall app development cost, which is why region selection matters.
Whatโs included in the estimated app development cost?
Your estimate usually covers all key stages of development:
- Wireframing & UI/UX Design
- iOS/Android or cross-platform development
- Backend & API development
- Integrations (maps, payments, social login, etc.)
- Testing & QA
- Release & deployment support
- Project management
Whatโs not included in the estimate?
The calculator intentionally excludes elements that vary widely between projects:
- Monthly hosting or server infrastructure
- Paid third-party API usage (e.g., SMS, Maps, AI APIs)
- App Store / Play Store fees
- Marketing and user acquisition
- Content creation and admin work
- Long-term DevOps or maintenance retainers
These can be added as optional services if needed.
Can I download or email my estimate?
Yes! You can instantly:
- Download a PDF version of your cost estimate
- Email it directly to yourself or your team
This makes budgeting and internal approvals easier.
How long does it take to build an app?
Development timelines vary by complexity:
- MVP: 4โ10 weeks
- Standard product: 3โ6 months
- Enterprise-level system: 6โ12 months+
Your estimate adjusts automatically based on timeline selection (Standard, Fast-Track, or Urgent).
What is an MVP, and why does it cost less?
An MVP (Minimum Viable Product) is the simplest version of your app that includes only core features. It helps you:
- Launch faster
- Spend less initially
- Validate your concept with real users
Startups commonly begin with an MVP before scaling to a full app.
Is cross-platform development cheaper than native apps?
Usually yes. Cross-platform frameworks like Flutter or React Native allow you to build one codebase for both iOS and Android:
- Lower development cost
- Shorter timeline
- Lower maintenance workload
However, apps requiring heavy performance (gaming, AR/VR) still benefit from native development.
After I get an estimate, what’s the next step?
You can book a free consultation. Our team will:
- Review your calculator selections
- Define the architecture and feature list
- Prepare a detailed proposal with cost, timeline, and roadmap
Can Gleexa help with UI/UX, branding, and strategy?
Yes โ we provide full digital product development services:
- Branding & product strategy
- UI/UX design
- Mobile & web development
- Quality assurance
- Launch support & maintenance
Do you work with startups, enterprises, or both?
We work with early-stage startups, SMEs, and large enterprises across diverse industries.
How can I reduce app development cost?
Effective ways to lower cost include:
- Starting with an MVP
- Avoiding unnecessary features
- Choosing cross-platform development
- Using pre-built design systems
- Selecting a cost-efficient development region
- Releasing features in phases
Can I use this estimate to pitch investors?
Yes! The PDF estimate works great for fundraising and internal budgeting.
- Cost justification
- Budget planning
- Initial project scope outline
I need a very custom app. Will the calculator still work?
Yes โ the calculator provides a strong baseline. If you need advanced modules like:
- AI/ML
- Streaming
- AR/VR
- Blockchain
- SaaS multi-tenant systems
We recommend requesting a detailed custom estimate for such cases.

