iOS App Development Cost in 2024: A Complete Breakdown

Is your specialty in building the next-gen mobile applications? If yes, then you’ll probably be a leading Android and iOS App development company. Consider developing iOS apps to take your business forward and upward. With the widespread popularity of Apple devices and the potential to reach a vast user base, you stand a chance to distinguish yourself but, it’s equally important to know about iOS app development cost involved in the entire process.

Estimating the Cost of iOS App Development

Providing an exact cost without project specifics is challenging. However, to give you a ballpark estimate, iOS app development costs can range from $10,000 to $250,000 or more. The cost will depend on the complexity, design requirements, features, integrations, and ongoing maintenance needs of your app.

It’s important to note that this estimate can vary significantly based on the many iPhone app development factors. Simple apps with basic features are more likely to fall towards the lower end of the cost spectrum, while complex apps with advanced functionalities and custom designs will be on the higher end.

iOS App Development Cost Based on Size & Scale of the App’s Nature

As an aspiring iPhone app developer or business owner, understanding the financial aspects of app development is crucial. Here, we’ve tackled the cost of developing an iOS application based on its size. Whether you’re planning to create a small, medium, or large-scale app, we’ll provide you with valuable insights to help you estimate your budget accurately.

• Small-Scale iPhone App Development Cost

Small-scale iOS apps typically consist of a few screens and basic functionalities. These apps are relatively simple and have minimal complexities. They are suitable for startups or individuals looking to validate their app idea without a substantial investment. Here is a breakdown of the cost components for small-scale iOS app development:

Factors Affecting Cost for a Small-scale iOS App Development Project

The total cost of iOS Application development on a smaller-scale can range from approximately $6,000 to $15,000, depending on the complexity of the features and the hourly rates of developers.

• Medium-Scale iOS App Development Cost

Medium-scale iOS apps offer more functionalities and often require integration with external APIs or services. They cater to businesses and startups with a moderate budget and a desire for a more feature-rich app. Have a look at cost of iOS app development for medium-scale projects:

Cost Factors based On iOS App Development Elements for a Mid-sized Project

The total cost for medium-scale iOS apps can range anywhere between $15,000 and $35,000, again depending on the complexity of features and developer hourly rates.

• Large-Scale iOS App Development Price

Large-scale iOS apps are typically complex and feature-rich, requiring extensive backend infrastructure and integration with multiple APIs. These apps are suitable for established businesses aiming to provide a comprehensive user experience. Here is the cost breakdown for large-scale iOS app development:

Key Components Impacting the Cost For Larger iOS App Development Project

The total cost for a large-scale iOS app development can range anywhere between $35,000 and $70,000, but it can vary based on several factors including the complexity of features and the hourly rates of developers.

Factors Influencing App Development Costs

Apart from the app size, several factors can influence the overall cost of developing an iOS app. These factors include:

• Complexity of features and functionalities
• Integration with third-party APIs or services
• User authentication and security requirements
• Backend infrastructure and database management
• App maintenance and updates
• App marketing and promotion

It’s important to consider these factors and consult with experienced app developers or development agencies to get an accurate cost estimate for your specific app requirements

1. Complexity of the App

The complexity of your app plays a crucial role in determining the overall cost. Here are four broad categories that define the complexity levels:

• Basic Apps

Basic apps are relatively simple, with limited features and functionalities. These apps typically provide information, contact details, or a simple user interface. The cost of developing such apps is generally lower compared to more complex ones.

• Database-driven Apps

Database-driven apps involve storing and retrieving data from a server or a cloud-based database. These apps require backend development and API integrations, making them moderately complex. The cost of developing database-driven apps is higher than basic apps due to the additional backend infrastructure.

• E-commerce Apps

E-commerce apps facilitate online buying and selling. They include features like product catalogs, shopping carts, secure payment gateways, and order tracking. The complexity of e-commerce apps is high, as they involve complex integrations and require robust security measures. Developing such apps can be quite expensive.

• On-demand Apps

On-demand apps, such as ride-sharing or food delivery apps, require real-time data processing, location tracking, and user interaction. These apps involve complex algorithms and seamless integrations, making them the most expensive to develop.

2. Design and User Interface

The design and user interface significantly impacts its development cost of iOS apps. If you opt for a custom and visually appealing design, it will require more effort and resources, thus increasing the overall cost. On the other hand, using pre-designed templates can help save costs but may compromise uniqueness.

3. Features and Functionality

The number and complexity of features in your app directly influence the cost of iPhone app development. Each additional feature requires additional development time and effort. It’s crucial to prioritize the essential features and consider adding advanced features in later iterations to manage the initial development cost.

4. Integration with Backend Systems

If your app needs to integrate with existing backend systems, such as customer databases or inventory management systems, it will increase the development cost. Backend integration often involves developing APIs and ensuring seamless data flow between the app and the backend infrastructure.

5. Third-Party API Integration

Many apps rely on third-party services, such as social media integration, payment gateways, or mapping services. Integrating these APIs into your app may require additional development time and might involve licensing fees or usage charges, which should be considered in the overall cost estimation.

6. App Testing and Quality Assurance

Testing and quality assurance are crucial steps in the app development process. It ensures that the app functions smoothly, performs well, and offers a great user experience. Allocating sufficient time and resources for thorough testing is necessary to deliver a high-quality app, but it can add to the overall iOS app development cost.

7. App Maintenance and Updates

After launching your app, regular maintenance and updates are essential to keep it up-to-date, secure, and compatible with the latest iOS versions. It’s important to factor in the ongoing maintenance costs when estimating the overall cost of iPhone app development.

8. Hiring Developers

The cost of hiring iOS developers varies depending on their experience, location, and expertise. Experienced developers may charge higher rates but can deliver high-quality results efficiently. Consider the skills required for your app and allocate an appropriate budget for developer expenses.

9. Development Timeline

The development timeline directly affects the iPhone app development price. Rushing the process to meet tight deadlines can lead to higher costs due to potential rework and last-minute changes. Allocating sufficient time for each development phase ensures a smoother and cost-effective development process.

10. App Monetization Strategy

If your app aims to generate revenue through in-app purchases, subscriptions, or advertisements, it’s important to consider the implementation of monetization features. Developing and integrating these features can add to the overall cost but can provide a return on investment in the long run.

11. Marketing and Promotion

Creating an exceptional app is just the first step. Proper marketing and promotion are crucial to ensure its success. Allocating a budget for marketing activities like app store optimization, social media campaigns, and digital advertising is necessary to drive user acquisition and increase app visibility.

12. App Store Submission

Submitting your app to the App Store involves a review process and compliance with Apple’s guidelines. It’s essential to allocate time and resources for app store submission, including necessary documentation and adherence to the guidelines, to avoid potential delays or rejections.

13. Post-Launch Support

After launching your app, providing timely support and addressing user feedback is essential for user satisfaction. Allocating resources for post-launch support ensures that your app remains functional and well-maintained, contributing to positive user experiences.

Comparative Cost Table of iOS App Development Team Sizes

The comparative cost table provides an analysis of the estimated costs based on the size of the iOS app development team.

1. Small Team (2-4 members)

iOS App Development Core Team and Cost Estimation

A small development team is suitable for simpler apps with basic features and functionalities. The team can handle core development tasks, design the app’s interface, and manage the project effectively.

2. Medium Team (5-10 members)

Cost per Hour for iOS App Development Team Based on their Roles

A medium-sized team is capable of handling more complex app requirements. They can handle backend integrations, advanced UI/UX designs, and implement additional features. This team size allows for more flexibility and faster development timelines.

3. Large Team (10+ members)

Large Team Hourly Rates for Grander iOS App Development Project: High Cost, Quick Development

A large development team is suitable for large-scale projects with extensive features and functionalities. They can handle complex backend integrations, server architecture, advanced animations, and scalability requirements. Large teams provide dedicated resources for different project aspects, resulting in faster development cycles.

Cost of iOS App Development for Payment Gateway Integration

• Basic iOS App with Standard Payment Gateway Integration

For a basic iOS app with standard payment gateway integration, you can expect the cost to range between $1,000 and $5,000. This estimate covers the integration of a widely used payment gateway provider, basic customization to match your app’s branding, and standard security measures.

• Complex iOS App with Advanced Payment Gateway Integration

If your iOS app is more complex and requires advanced payment gateway integration, the cost can increase significantly. For such projects, the cost typically ranges from $5,000 to $20,000 or more. This estimate includes integration with a specialized payment gateway provider, extensive customization, stringent security measures, and thorough testing.

Additional Costs to Consider

Apart from the core development and integration costs, there are a few additional expenses to keep in mind. These may include:

• Payment Gateway Fees: Most payment gateway providers charge a fee per transaction or have a subscription-based pricing structure. Be sure to factor in these ongoing costs when budgeting for your app.
• Maintenance and Updates: Like any software, your iOS app and the integrated payment gateway will require maintenance and occasional updates. Consider the long-term maintenance costs when planning your budget.
• Third-Party Services: Depending on your app’s requirements, you may need to integrate additional third-party services, such as fraud prevention or analytics tools. These services can add to the overall cost.

Cost Comparison Table Based on iOS App Developer Hiring Model

1. Freelancers

Freelancer Hourly Rates for iOS App Development

2. In-House Developers

iOS App Development Hourly Price for In-House Developers 

3. Offshore Development Companies

Offshore Development Hourly Cost

Global Average iOS App Development Cost this Year!

We have averaged out the cost of how much it will take to develop an iOS application depending on the level of complexity of the project to help give you a rough idea (according to industry pricing) of how much you should expect to pay. Android users can also compare the same and feel different!

iOS App Complexity	Pricing & Costs	Time Estimation
Basic iOS App	$5000 to $15,000	1-3 months
Medium Complexity iOS App	$15,000 to $60,000	3-4 months
Intricate iOS App	$60,000 and onwards	4+ months

Although the costs above are rough estimates, the exact cost varies from project to project because each project is unique in its own way and calls for its own set of requirements and intricacies.

Let’s dive deeper into the iOS app development cost breakdown, discussing all the factors that help influence the pricing.

iOS App Development Cost Breakdown (Step by Step)

Step 1: Ideation

The first step in creating any iOS application is the ideation phase. The ideation phase encompasses the problem you’re hoping to solve or the obstacle you’re hoping to overcome with an iOS application.

Apart from that, other aspects include:-

Competitor Analysis

Extensive market research is vital at the embryonic stage. Take your time because this research includes your competitors’ analysis, what features your rival’s app offers users, and what their app’s USP is.

This ensures the newly produced app is useful, original, and simple.
Even things like the targeted audiences’ demographics, needs, and the number of iOS users you’re hoping to target are considered.

User Experience

All organizations, or more accurately, the majority of them, strive to give their customers the greatest possible user experience. Therefore, the user’s needs are considered before beginning and creating the application.

The market or target location where the app will be most used is very important because no matter how much money you throw at it, no matter how fancy or feature-rich it is, what use will the app be if no one is gonna use it? That being said, never compromise on your UX because your customers will be using it, not you.

Market Capitalization

This is an essential part of this process. Here, the revenue generation capacity of an application is determined. Factors like, will this app be able to attract users? Will it generate enough revenue? And most importantly; Whether, whether it could raise any funds of its own.

All these points should be considered while estimating the average cost for your app development project. An application’s ability to generate income is assessed here, a crucial step in the app development ideation and process.

• Will this iOS application be able to draw people?
• Will the iOS app generate a steady stream of revenue?
• And maybe the most critical question is, how quickly will it help you achieve break-even?

ROI is even more important now as the major economists suggest brands “hold their horses” as global economics takes the road downhill. When determining the typical cost for your app development project, all these factors and more should be taken into account.

Step 2: Scale of iOS App

After you are finished with the ideation phase of your iOS application, it’s time to move on to the second phase, analyzing the scale of the iOS application.

That means determining what framework the app will be built upon, what programming language(s) will be used to code it, what the app will look and feel like, and what features and functionalities will need to be added to it.

This includes two very important aspects such as:

1. App Complexity

Your iOS application needs to include a variety of features. The difficulty of developing it and its characteristics significantly impact the total cost of developing your iOS application.

How long it will take to develop is directly proportional to the number of features you want added. Basic applications with relatively simple functionalities tend to be more affordable and take less development time.

Utilizing common design elements will cost you far less than using established templates if you’re looking for an affordable iOS application. The mid-tier applications are a bit pricier but will have more features and functionalities than the basic ones.

It will undoubtedly cost you extra if you want an application with specialized templates, a variety of UI elements, real-time chat features, and/or API connectivity. Compared to the previous two, the price of an application with complex features like customized animations, intricate database relationships, and media processing. will be much, much higher.

2. Factors in Type of Application

These applications have a high price because the development process takes more time.

The cost of developing an application depends on its type, whether it is to be a native iOS application or a cross-platform iOS application. Some data is as per Statista, a renowned statistical data and research firm that analyses specific niches and categories of industries worldwide.
The most popular type of game on mobile devices in the third quarter of 2022 is games. They’re being used by 12.68 percent of the users of iOS apps.

Apps that help business people run their companies are the second most popular category of applications in the Apple App Store. 10.35% preferred these.

Education apps have grown as the third top category for iPhone and iPad apps; this quarter showed 9.8% activity. In 2013, education apps accounted for more than 8%.
Over the last several years, the number of apps available through the Apple App Store has grown steadily.

During the first quarter of 2021, they reached a peak of about 2.2 million apps. As of the beginning of 2022, the highest-superiority mobile apps on the iOS app results page of the Apple App Store had an average of 31.7 thousand reviews and received an average rating of 3.35 stars.

Regarding availability, gaming apps are often the most downloaded and highest-grossing apps. In March 2021, Roblox was the top-grossing gaming app, generating more than three million U.S. dollars. The revenue per day is dollars in revenue.

The average price for a gaming app is about 49 cents, while the average app price is just under one U.S.

There are several app revenue models, including free apps with in-app purchases, paid apps without in-app purchases, and paid apps with in-app purchases. The top-grossing category on the Apple App Store was gaming apps, which often generate revenue through in-game item purchases.
Gaming apps, which frequently generate revenue through in-game item purchases, were the top-grossing category on the Apple App Store, generating almost 52 billion U.S. dollars from global users in 2021. There was a time when messaging apps held the flags high, but those were very unpredictable times of the pandemic.

An extra benefit of a cross-platform program is that it may operate on several systems and that previously written code can be reused with minor tweaks (if needed).
In contrast, the code for native programs must be built from scratch and is OS-specific. That means you’ll be spending around twice the cost, one for Android and one for iOS.
Businesses typically hire developers to create both Android and iOS apps.
Compared to native apps, getting cross-platform apps produced is less expensive. In cross-platform development, about 80% of the code is reused, saving time and capital, capital that can be spent on other things.

Step 3: Designing the iOS App

Another crucial element to consider when determining the development price and cost of building an iOS app is the design of the iOS application. The price of purchasing the application will vary even with a few modifications or tweaks to the design concept. The foundation of each project’s design is its wireframe.

It improves the user experience for your iOS apps’ users. There are various tools you can use to help you translate the app into a high-fidelity design. It aids in the decision-making process for your application’s flow, or the user path, which governs how a user will navigate through your iOS application.

Another critical factor in determining the cost of a project is the UI(user interface) design and high-tech animation, which will need to be created and added. It takes a lot of complicated code and time to create an iOS app with a complex design and animation, like in games, which raises the cost of iOS app development. The cost of creating an application is directly proportional to the complexity of the design and code.

Another crucial element to consider when determining the price of iOS app development is the design of the iOS application. The price of purchasing the application will vary even with a few modifications or tweaks to the design concept. The foundation of each project’s design is its wireframe. It improves the user experience for your iOS apps’ users. There are various tools you can use to help you translate the app into a high-fidelity design. It aids in the decision-making process for your application’s flow, or the user path, which governs how a user will navigate through your iOS application.

Another critical factor in determining the cost of a project is the UI (user interface) design and high-tech animation, which will need to be created and added. It takes a lot of complex code and time to create an iOS app with a complex design and animation, like in games, which raises the cost of iOS Mobile app development. The cost of creating an application is directly proportional to the complexity of the design and code.

Step 4: Testing & Maintenance

The work of an iOS developer does not end with just the development of the website.
The testing and maintenance of an application also take time.

The developer ensures that the app is free from bugs and runs smoothly. The app has to be updated according to the current hardware/software needs and scenarios. These continuous updates on your app will surely add to your iOS mobile app development cost. The construction of the application is only the beginning of an iOS developer’s job. It takes a lot of time to rigorously test and maintain an application to ensure it continues offering optimal performance.

Also, the iOS store has standards for approval of application uploads, with certain limits such as Accurate Metadata and Hardware compatibility. The developer and QA team will have to ensure the application is running flawlessly, all functionalities are running as intended, and it is and remains bug-free. The app will also need to be updated from time to time (further increase in future costs of maintenance!).

The cost of developing your iOS app will undoubtedly increase as you plan and roll out new and maintenance updates per the iOS upgrades.

Step 5: Location

The last factor that affects the cost of developing an iOS application depends on the location where it is being developed.

It is acknowledged that every mobile development company charges a different price worldwide.
The cost is also influenced by the size of the team you hire and the number of mobile app developers working on your project. To summarize, there are several possible reasons for your iOS app cost, depending on your choices regarding the technology used, the region selected for development, UI/UX Design, unpredictability degree, type of application, and so forth.

Our Take on Creating a High-Quality iOS Application

You may already know the approximate cost, but YOUR particular iOS application needs a proper cost-building bifurcation before you can estimate the cost of the application. A professional iOS application development service is provided by an iOS developer or a team of the same; people who know the platform.

iOS development costing involves a combination of technical and creative skill sets. iOS devs pay close attention to every detail to ensure you receive the best possible app development return of value for the price. There are many different iOS app development companies in the market.
So pick the best mobile app development company, like TrangoTech, if you want an appropriate and completely working application to be created! Choose iOS App Devs who are skilled and thrilled!

The ultimate question for the App development process: How much does it cost to develop an iOS App? Ultimate Answer – The costs to build an iOS app include the app’s development, graphic and user interface design, programming, quality assurance testing, and more. Professional iOS developers ensure that every app created complies with all business standards, meets and exceeds your expectations, and enables exponential growth for your company.

Frequently Asked Questions about iOS App Development Cost

1.    What is the typical iOS mobile application cost?

The cost to develop an iOS app can vary widely depending on the complexity of the app, the features you want to include, and the expertise of the developer. However, the average cost of a basic iOS app can range from $5,000 to $50,000, while a more complex app can cost $100,000 or more.

2.    What factors affect the cost of iOS app development?

Several factors can affect the cost of iOS app development, including the app’s complexity, features, design, development team’s experience, and location. The more complex the app, the more time it will take to develop and the higher the cost will be. Likewise, the more
features and design elements you want to include, the higher the cost will be.
Additionally, development teams with more experience and expertise typically charge
higher rates, and the location of the development team can also affect the
cost.

3.    Can I get an estimate of iPhone app development cost?

Yes, you can get an estimate for your iPhone app development costs by consulting
with a developer or development team. They can provide you with an estimate
based on the specific features and design elements you want to include, as well
as the complexity of the app. Keep in mind that the final cost may vary depending on any changes or additions you make throughout the development process.

4.    What is the typical timeline for iOS app development?

The timeline for iOS app development can vary depending on the complexity and scope of the project. Generally, a simple app with basic features can take around 2 to 4 months to develop, while more complex apps with advanced functionality can take 6 months or longer.

5.    Do I need to have a clear app idea before starting development?

Having a clear app idea is beneficial, but it’s not necessary to have every detail fully defined before starting development. Experienced developers can work with you to refine and shape your idea during the development process. However, having a basic understanding of your app’s purpose and target audience is important to ensure a successful outcome.

6.    Can I make changes or add features after the app is developed?

Yes, you can make changes or add new features to your app even after it’s developed and launched. However, it’s important to consider that making significant changes or adding complex features may require additional time and cost. It’s recommended to discuss any changes or additions with your development team to assess the impact on the timeline and budget.

7.    How can I monetize my iOS app?

There are several monetization strategies for iOS apps, such as in-app purchases, subscriptions, advertising, and selling the app itself. The choice of monetization method depends on your app’s purpose, target audience, and the value it provides. It’s advisable to research and consult with experts to determine the most suitable monetization strategy for your iOS app.

Remember, the cost and timeline for iOS app development can vary based on project-specific factors, so it’s essential to consult with a professional development team to get an accurate estimate and tailor the development process to your unique needs.