Planning to invest in Android app development? Want to determine Android app development cost?. In reality, the cost lies between $10000-$30000+.
Nowadays, Android is one of the lucrative markets with approx. 5 million+ apps available on the app store. One of the research has found which indicates that Android holds a market of approx. 2.5 billion active users.
Besides, the market value of the app development industry would reach to $673.8 billion as per Statista.
In general, there is no precise cost mentioned anywhere. Many factors influence Android app development cost. Though, you can estimate an average cost based on distinct app categories.
Simple Android App Development Cost – $5,000 to $10,000+
Medium Complex Android App Development – $10,000 to $20,000+
Complex Android App Development – $20,000 to $25,000+
Want to learn more specifics associated with android app development cost? Read on.
Below, we’ll cover all the essential details that helps you determine how much does android app development cost in 2024.
Plus, you can connect with any reputable Android app development company today to give you an estimate to create an app for Android.
Let’s begin!
Want to get an estimate for your android app development?
Let’s our experts assist you in your journey.
Table Of Contents
Android App Development Cost in 2024
There is no specific cost to develop an Android app. Generally, the cost to create an android app is in between $5,000 to $25,000+.
Also, android app cost varies significantly based on numerous factors. For instance;
App Type
Estimate Cost
Time
Simple App Development
$10,000 to $15,000
2-3 months
Basic App Development
$15,000 to $25,000
3-6 months
Complex App Development
$25,000 to $30,000+
6-12 months
App Parameters Influencing Android App Development Cost
Here’s a cost breakdown of the key factors that influence the Android app development cost.
1. App Complexity
The more complex the app, the higher the development price.
2. Development Process
The type of development approach chosen, such as native, hybrid, or cross-platform also impacts Android app development cost.
3. Features and Functions
The type of features and functions included in your app may also effect the overall android application development cost.
4. Third-Party Integrations
Integrating third-party services or APIs can also add up on costs, depending on the complexity and the number of integrations you’ll be needed into your app.
5. Development Team
The location, size, and the technical expertise of the development team also play a significant role in order to determine android development cost.
To get an accurate android app developer cost, you can connect with our expert android app developers by contacting our support team.
Android App Development Cost Statistics
Below are some of the key statistics that will further highlight the importance of Android app development.
Android has over 85 percent market share in multiple countries like USA, UK, China, and Indonesia (Statista)
There are over 2.3 billion active Android users worldwide (Statista)
Android app downloads grew from 140 billion in 2016 to 230 billion in 2024 (BusinessofApps)
The mobile app revenue generated from Android apps are projected to exceed $600 billion by 2025 (Statista)
So, if you’re planning to invest in Android app development, connect with our leading Android app development company to get exceptional android app development services.
Before, we dive deeper into the details associated to android app development cost, let’s first determine the cost of distinct mobile app categories.
Six Factors Contributing to Android App Development Cost
When you begin your journey to develop an Android app, it’s essential to understand that you won’t be able to get an immediate cost estimate with the mobile app development business you partner.
This is because the business you employ need to thoroughly analyze your app’s requirements in the first place.
Below, we have listed down the six factors that plays a key role in order to determine Android app development cost.
1. Level of App Complexity
The complexity of your app directly impacts its development cost. An efficient and feature-rich app is often considered as a hall-mark to stay competitive in this digital world.
Some of the factors that contribute to Android app complexity include;
The choice of deployment architecture (BaaS or Custom)
Integration with third-party apps (e.g., Google, Gmail, or Facebook)
The creation of an admin panel for user activity monitoring and content updates
And the implementation of in-app purchase functionality.
Utilizing the device’s hardware features like GPS and Bluetooth also adds to the app’s complexity and cost.
Here’s a breakdown of Android app development cost based on your app complexity.
Android App Development Cost Based on App Complexity
App Complexity
Level of Complexity
Time Duration
Average Cost ($)
Simple app
– MVP functionality
– Basic UI
– Single platform
2-3 months
$50,000-$300,000
Medium Complex app
– Sophisticated features
– Customized UI
– Single platform
6-8 months
$30,000-$150,000
Highly Complex app
– High level advanced features
– Extravagant UI
– Two platforms
6-12 months
$120,000-$300,000
2. Type and Category of App
The type and category of your Android app significantly influences development costs.
You may find various categories and app types on app stores, though, each with its unique functionalities, target demographics, security requirements, and more.
Some of the most popular categories in 2022 include gaming, eCommerce, EdTech, and social networking.
Now, based on the category of your Android app, here’s an android app making cost and time estimate.
3. Android App Animation and Design
The design and animation aspects of your app contribute directly to development costs.
Different design styles and animations vary in cost based on their type and quality.
Material Design is a popular choice for Android app development, imparting creativity and simplicity to mobile app designs.
Wireframing tools such as MARVEL, Balsamiq, and Photoshop are used to create user-friendly features and maps.
Animation, often employed in gaming and social media apps, adds both interest and intuitiveness to the user experience. Thus, its recommended to determine app animation and design cost in the first place.
Here is the Android mobile application development cost breakdown based on the design requirements of the app.
Android App Development Cost Based on Design & Animation
App Process
Design Tasks
Average Development Time (hrs)
Average Development Cost (Approx)
UX design
– Rough sketches
– Low fidelity wireframes
– High fidelity wireframes
Simple – 10-14
Medium – 50-60
Complex – 150+
$1000-$10,000
UI design
– Mood boards
– UI mockup samples
– Final UI mockups
Simple – 14-20
Medium – 80-90
Complex – 100+
$10,000-$60,000
Branding
Creating brand identity
Logos, icons and social media
$4,000-$20,000
4. App Deployment on Play Store
Successfully launching your app on the Play Store is a crucial milestone that affects the overall Android app development budget.
Adhering to Play Store guidelines is essential for app acceptance. Google charges a one-time fee of $25 for launching an Android app on its platform.
5. Android App Maintenance
Your Android app development expenses don’t conclude with the app’s Play Store debut; there’s ongoing maintenance to consider.
The cost of maintaining both the frontend and backend of Android apps accumulates and impacts the total development expenditure.
Maintenance costs vary based on the extent of development scope and required changes, so it’s advisable to consult your Android app development team for a precise estimate.
6. Android App Development Team
The choice of your Android app development team plays a significant role in determining the overall cost.
You have multiple options, including hiring a proficient Android app development company, opt for a local team, employ an in-house development team, or collaborate with a freelance Android developer.
An experienced Android app development company is often the preferred choice for crafting high-end apps with top-notch features and functionalities
Here is a rough estimate of what your app development cost should range to with an outsourced app development team.
Android App Development Cost Based on Development Team Size
Cost Factors and Requirements
Simple App
Medium App
Complex App
Development time
4-6 months
8-10 months
10- 15 months
Developers
$30-40,000
$50-60,000
$100,000+
DevOps
$2-4,000
$5-7,000
$10,000+
Solution Architect
$1-3,000
$5-8,000
$9,000+
QA Specialist
$8-10,000
$15-20,000
$20,000+
Business Analyst
$2-3,000
$5-8,000
$8-10,000
UI/UX Designer
$4-5,000
$5-7,000
$10-15,000
Project Manager
$5-7,000
$10-15,000
$10,000+
Total
$20-50,000
$50-100,000
$100,000+
Now that we are familiar with the factors that determine how much does it cost to build an android app, let’s take a quick glance through the industry based android app development cost calculator to help you with your budget estimation.
Android App Development Cost Based on Distinct Regions and Hourly Rates
Let’s compare app development costs based on various regions.
Region
Hourly rate in Terms of “$”
United States (USA)
100-120
United Kingdom (UK)
130-150
Australia
110-140
Western Europe
80-100
Eastern Europe
20-60
India
40 -80
From the above table, we’ve learnt app development cost, especially the cost to build an android app varies based on different regions.
Android App Development Cost Based on Hourly Rates of Developers
The cost factor impacts due to the distinct hourly rates of developers.
Typically, these three cost factors affect the hourly rate of developing Android apps.
Calculator to Estimate Your Android App Development Cost
Want to determine the cost to build an Android app? You can get an estimate with the help of the following formula.
Industry experts have devised a formula that aids in this calculation.
It involves determining the number of hours required for the app development process and multiplying it by the billable hours spent by the resources involved throughout the development journey.
Once you have an estimated cost, perhaps, you may also want to make a comparative analysis of Android vs. iOS app development expenses.
Want to figure out the exact app development cost for your Android app?
To assist you in making an informed decision regarding your operating platform, let’s delve into a detailed comparison of Android and iOS development costs, considering various factors.
1. Cost of App Development
The cost of app development hinges on factors such as development duration and the technology employed.
Android apps are typically crafted using Kotlin and Java programming languages, while iOS applications rely on Swift and Objective-C.
Notably, developers working with the latter languages may charge 10% to 15% more than Java developers.
Consequently, Android apps tend to be more cost-effective than their iOS counterparts in this context.
2. App Designing
The disparity in the time invested in creating engaging and user-friendly UI designs for Android and iOS apps is minimal.
Furthermore, Android app development offers greater flexibility for experimentation and innovation due to Google’s adaptable guidelines.
3. Testing Process
Android app testing can pose a more complex challenge for developers compared to iOS app development.
Android applications require testing across various screen displays and resolutions to ensure a more uniform and enhanced user experience.
4. App Launch
Apple’s stringent guidelines make it a rigorous process for developers to gain approval for their apps. In contrast, Google’s entry requirements are less restrictive, although recent Google policies indicate a detailed app selection process.
Complying with the publishing criteria set by both Apple and Google contributes to the overall cost of app development.
5. Location
Apart from the multitude of factors mentioned above, the cost to develop an Android app also depends on the location you choose for your app development business.
You may find cost-effective prices in Dubai, US, and in UK with efficient app development services.
In short, there is no simple answer to the question, “How much does it cost to develop an Android app in 2024.” However, there are strategies to reduce overall expenses in your Android app development project.
How Difficult it is to Build an Android App?
When embarking on the journey to create a mobile application, several crucial factors come into play that will influence the ultimate Android app development cost of your project. Thus, making it challenging to build an Android app.
These factors revolve around understanding your target audience, defining your business objectives, choosing the right platform for development, and grasping the intricacies of the app development process.
The intricacies of your app, such as its buttons, screens, and other elements, contribute significantly to its uniqueness, user engagement, and convenience.
However, every additional component introduced also has a direct impact on the overall project budget.
To ensure a successful development process, it’s essential to pre-develop a prototype and meticulously plan every aspect of functionality.
The following three key aspects significantly influence the cost of building a mobile application.
1. Complexity Level of App Development
The complexity level of your app is a primary determinant of Android app development cost.
Simpler Android applications require less time for development. Conversely, larger, complex Android apps take more time in developing, thus adding on more cost and time. Therefore, it’s crucial to determine the scale of your project in the early stages.
Type 1: Simple Complexity
Simple apps encompass basic features, typically consisting of three to four screens, straightforward functionalities, and no data storage.
Such apps commonly include features like login, signup, profile creation, search, notifications, messages, and admin panels.
Type 2: Basic Complexity (Database and API-based)
As complexity increases, the cost will further uprooted.
These apps incorporate additional features beyond the basics, such as social media integration, in-app purchases, payment portals, geo-location, and location tracking.
They also focus on enhanced security and scalability.
Development costs rise due to the complexity of data storage, synchronization, and a broader customer base.
Type 3: High Complexity (Feature-Rich and Large-Scale)
High complexity apps cater to significant enterprises. They may involve custom development without integrations or complex custom integrations with existing systems.
These apps are characterized by features like data synchronization across multiple devices, native functionalities, online streaming, in-app calls, and video chats.
The intricate development process and planning contribute to higher costs, encompassing various infrastructure elements, customizations, and extensive coding.
Precisely estimating the scope and cost of such projects can be challenging.
2. The Complexity of Application Design
The design phase is intrinsically linked to development and significantly impacts the cost of Android app creation.
The complexity of app design with increased customizations and features leads to higher costs and extended timelines.
3. The Platform Choice It Will Run on
The platform on which your app will run is a critical decision.
You must choose between developing a hybrid or cross-platform app or opting for native app development.
Option 1 – Develop a Hybrid or Cross-Platform App
Cross-platform apps can run on either Android or iOS devices, offering advantages in terms of compatibility and access to platform-specific features.
Market share, device fragmentation, and prevalence play crucial roles in platform selection.
Understanding where each platform holds dominance can help you make an informed choice, potentially impacting development costs.
Option 2 – Develop a Native App
Native apps operate exclusively on a single platform, either Android or iOS.
Developing native apps for both platforms requires distinct development teams – one for Android and another for iOS. As a result, costs effectively double compared to developing a single-platform app.
Despite differences in technologies, SDKs, databases, and frameworks, the overall cost remains the same for iOS and Android development.
It’s essential to weigh these factors carefully when considering the cost of your app development project.
How Long Does it Take to Build an Android app?
Now, you may have learned how to determine Android app development cost. Now, it’s time to discover the time duration to develop an Android app.
In general, there is no fixed timeline to build an Android app. The timeline varies based on various factors.
Factors Affecting the Time Duration to Build an Android App
Estimating the time required to develop a mobile app is a multifaceted process.
It hinges on various factors, such as feature count, screen design, functionality, and the intricacy of the app’s business logic.
Below, we’ll delve into these factors to provide insights into app development timelines.
Factor 1: Feature Count and Complexity
The complexity of your app is closely linked to the features and integrations you envision in your app.
Your choice of features and the complexity of developing your app significantly impact development duration.
If you hire an expert Android app development team, the following team members and the estimated timelines for each category adds up on the development cost.
Android App Development Cost Based on Distinct Types and Timelines
Team Members Involved
Types of Apps
Timeline To Build Android App
Project manager
Simple Apps
2 to 4 months
UI/UX designer
Mid-Level Apps
6 to 10 months
Front-end / Back-end Developer
Complex Apps
8 months to a year or more
QA Engineer, Support, & Maintenance Experts
Normally, the type of app and the team of experts involved may impact the overall Android app development cost.
Factor 2: Project Size
The size of your project plays a pivotal role in determining the app development timeline.
Larger projects with extensive features and integrations inherently demand more time for development.
The duration of mobile app development is intrinsically tied to its complexity and project size.
By assessing the scope of your app and understanding the intricacies involved, you can gain valuable insights into the time required to bring your app to life.
Hidden Android App Development Costs to Watch Out for in 2024
When you’re on the journey to invest in Android app development, it’s vital to consider not only the upfront expenses but also the hidden costs.
Unanticipated expenditures can significantly impact your project’s budget and timeline.
Here, we’ll unveil five hidden factors that adds up in the Android app development costs that every business should be aware of.
1. Device Fragmentation Testing
Device fragmentation in the Android ecosystem is a double-edged sword. While it offers a broad user base, it also necessitates extensive testing.
Ensuring your app functions seamlessly across various devices and screen sizes is essential.
This comprehensive testing phase can consume both time and resources, affecting your overall project budget.
2. App Security Measures
As cyber threats continue to evolve, incorporating robust security measures into your Android app is non-negotiable. However, implementing security features, encryption, and ongoing monitoring can lead to unexpected expenses.
Failing to invest in app security can be even costlier in the long run due to potential data breaches and their repercussions.
3. Frequent OS Updates
The Android platform frequently releases operating system updates. Your app must remain compatible with the latest versions to provide users with a seamless experience.
Adapting your app to these updates can entail coding adjustments, testing, and potential bug fixes, all of which contribute to hidden costs.
4. Legal and Compliance Fees
Navigating the legal landscape of app development involves licensing fees, patent checks, and compliance with privacy regulations like GDPR or CCPA.
Failure to address these legal aspects can lead to costly legal disputes or fines down the road.
5. Post-Launch Maintenance
After successfully launching your Android app, ongoing maintenance is imperative. This includes bug fixes, feature updates, and user support.
Failing to allocate resources for post-launch maintenance can result in a subpar user experience and tarnish your app’s reputation.
While budgeting for Android app development, it’s crucial to shine a light on these hidden costs. By being prepared for device fragmentation testing, app security, OS updates, legal fees, and post-launch maintenance, you can navigate the development process more effectively and ensure a successful app launch.
Want to get an estimate to develop an Android app?
Let our experts assist you
Reducing Android App Development Costs – Effective Strategies
Looking to streamline your Android app development expenses? Here are the essential steps that help you manage your project costs more efficiently.
1. Develop a Comprehensive Product Requirement Document
Effective planning is the cornerstone of cost-effective Android app development.
To begin, craft a detailed product requirement document.
This document should encompass the following details;
Essential information, including your company’s background
Desired app features and functionalities
Project timeline
The rationale behind the app
budget estimates
Platform requirements.
2. Prioritize App Features
During the app planning phase, collaborate with your team to identify the most critical and logical features for your Android app.
Engage in a thorough discussion to narrow down the essential functionalities.
By prioritizing features, you can create a focused app that aligns with your goals.
Gather user feedback early by testing a stripped-down version of your app to refine and enhance its functionality.
3. Embrace the MVP Approach
For budget-conscious development, consider building a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) with a limited set of features.
An MVP allows both general users and mobile app developers to test the core functionalities at an early stage.
This approach enables prompt issue identification and resolution, saving valuable resources.
Look for a partner with a track record in Android application development.
A well-matched development company can help you achieve the best return on investment (ROI) for your project.
By implementing these strategies, you can optimize your Android app development costs without compromising on quality or functionality.
Types of Hiring Models for Android App Development Cost
Once you’ve finalized your app idea, now it’s time to choose a reliable business that will help you make your dream app.
The following four options are generally included in the development of Android app.
Option #1: Hire a local agency
If you’ve a limited budget, and you want an impressive app, you can always choose a trusted medium-sized local company that provides premium services.
Option #1
Description
Pros
Cons
When Should you go for it?
Hire a Local Agency
– To develop an app, the development cost by the local companies will be higher.
– Depending on the country you choose, the per-hour rates of a development team and a design team can range between $150 to $250 per hour.
– If you hire a local agency, you can maintain constant communication.
– You will get expert quality and the possibility to make changes easily.
– A local team will be responsible to manage all your work.
You need to pay higher costs in order to employ them
Once you run a cost- benefit analysis, you will know that it is not worth it.
For more complicated projects there is another option.
Option #2: Build an in-house team
An in-house team is a workforce of app developers working entirely as a part of your organization’s employees, receiving fixed monthly payments from your company and receiving daily instructions from your management.
These developers are the most preferred option for solutions that collect sensitive information.
Option#2
Description
Pros
Cons
When Should you go for it?
Build an In-House Team
– The cost of hiring an in-house team varies with the location of your business and the developer’s expertise.
– Normally, hiring an in-house team would cost based on developers’ abilities and skillset.
– Constant flow of ideas
– Transparent Communication
– It has numerous hidden costs, e.g., office, equipment, etc.
– Expensive Mode
l
When budget is not an issue for you.
If you have decided to create an app, though, you have a limited budget, then you can hire freelancers.
Option #3: Work with freelancers
If you need to quickly test a hypothesis or do a small project, you can work with freelancers.
If you choose this option, take in mind that you will need to spend a lot of time communicating with contractors and managing the project.
Option #3
Description
Pros
Cons
When Should you go for it?
Work with Freelancers
– There are two ways you can go ahead with a freelancer.
– Hire them on a contract basis
– Hire them on an hourly basis
– The average hourly price of a freelancer depends on the location you are hiring from.
– Freelancing is one of the cost-effective methods to get your job done.
– With freelancing, you can quote your price and get a quality product.
– Not a sustainable approach.
– Communication gaps
– Location barriers
When you have certain project to complete. And timeline is not an issue for you.
If your project requires more staff and specialists working on the project, the availability of high-quality software, and experience in promoting apps, then you need an outsource app development project.
Option #4: Outsource app development
By outsourcing application development, you’re contracting a foreign company to help you create your app idea and manage the overall architecture.
It allows you to focus on your business needs, and a team of experts manages your technical requirements.
Option #4
Description
Pros
Cons
When Should you go for it?
Outsource App Development
– Cost of development differs from country to country. For example, android app developer’s costs in the USA are 2x-3x higher than the cost of hiring developers in Ukraine.
– Eastern European countries provide the perfect blend of cost and quality.
– The cost of outsourcing mobile app development to an offshore business varies from $20,000 to $500,000.
– The exact price would be depend on the product’s complexity.
– Cost-effective model
– High-quality products,
– Adherence to compliance laws,
– Fastest delivery.
Outsourcing your app creation is a good option, particularly for MVP development.
Outsourcing app development business will certainly reduce the development cost of the app.
When it comes to the mobile app development process, you have to go through a lot of things, including
Needless to say, Android is one of the biggest platform that have grabbed the attention of almost every individual out there. Almost, 60% of the population are Android users. Henceforth, you should invest in building Android apps for the success of your business.
When it comes to Android app development, Trango Tech stands out as an excellent choice.
With our expertise and commitment to cost-efficiency, we can help you navigate the intricacies of Android app development, ensuring your project stays on budget and delivers exceptional results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How much does it cost to create an Android app?
There are no fixed parameters that will help you identify how much does it cost to develop an Android app in 2024. Though, based on distinct app categories you can get an estimate.
For instance, simple may with limited features and functions may cost you around $20,000 to $50,000.
Conversely, a medium complex app would cost you around $40,000 to $80,000 or so. Furthermore, a more complex app would cost you in between $50,000 to $150,000+ or more.
Q. Is it profitable to make Android apps in 2024?
Yes, the mobile app industry is still a profitable market in 2024, but developers need to create high-quality apps that meet the needs of users in order to be successful.
Have you already finalized your app idea?
Thinking how much your Android app development takes?
Q. How long does it usually take to create an Android app?
If you’re planning to develop an Android app, the timeline can be anywhere from six months to an year or so.
To get an estimated time duration, you can connect with our expert android app developers.
Q. Should I consider patenting my Android app?
The decision to patent your Android app entirely depends on yourself.
If your app targets an entirely new user group or employs previously unused technology, patenting may be worth considering. However, for certainty, you can consult resources like the USPTO website or Google Patents for inquiry purposes.
Q. What’s the best method to determine Android app development cost?
Calculating the average android app development cost involves a straightforward formula.
Multiply the hours spent in development by the billable hours of the resources engaged. You can also use our pre-built app development cost calculator to determine the estimate price of your app development project.
Q. Why should businesses opt for Android Application Development?
Android application development offers a multitude of benefits for startups.
Mariam Amin is an Electronics Engineering graduate. As a content marketer working in the app development company, with her insights on engineering and digital strategy, she showcases informative guides and content that is built on imparting knowledge. When away from marketing and the digital landscape, you can find her looking over the food industry, and fitness trends, and catching up on a documentary or a movie.