Whether you’re a startup, small business, or enterprise, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: how much will it cost to develop a mobile app?
In 2025, app development pricing is more transparent than ever — but still depends heavily on features, platforms, and who you hire. At Phone Direct, we believe in full clarity. Let’s break it down step-by-step.
1. Basic App Types and Average Price Ranges
The first cost factor is what type of app you’re building. Here’s a general guide:
- Simple informational app: $2,000–$5,000
- Business app with login and basic backend: $5,000–$12,000
- E-commerce app: $8,000–$20,000
- Custom social or game app: $15,000–$50,000+
These ranges reflect global averages. At Phone Direct, we provide local pricing for Kenya and East Africa — often at much better value.
2. Platform: Android, iOS, or Both?
- Single platform (Android only or iOS only) is more affordable — usually 60–70% of total budget
- Cross-platform (using Flutter or React Native) saves time and money for most businesses
- Native development for both platforms is more expensive but offers best performance
Pro tip: If budget is limited, start with Android — it has the largest user base in Africa.
3. Core Cost Drivers Explained
Here are the biggest factors that influence app development cost:
- Features: Login, chat, GPS, camera, payments — each adds time and cost
- Design: Custom UI/UX is more expensive than using ready-made components
- Backend Development: Needed for apps with databases, logins, content updates
- API Integrations: Payment gateways, Google Maps, social login, etc.
- Admin Dashboard: Needed for managing users, orders, or content
4. Maintenance and Post-Launch Costs
After the app is launched, you’ll need to budget for:
- Bug fixing and updates: ~$100–$500/month
- Hosting & server costs: ~$20–$200/month depending on traffic
- New features and scaling: Optional, based on feedback
Ignoring maintenance leads to outdated, insecure apps that frustrate users.
5. Should You Hire Freelancers or an Agency?
- Freelancers: Cheaper, flexible, but may lack project structure
- Agencies (like Phone Direct): Offer full-cycle development, testing, and post-launch support
- In-house team: Great for scaling products but very expensive to start
We recommend agencies for most businesses — especially if you want accountability, timelines, and business-friendly communication.
6. Final Tip: Start With an MVP
If your budget is tight, build an MVP — Minimum Viable Product. It’s a basic version of the app with core features only. You can launch, test it with real users, and then invest more.
An MVP can cost as little as $2,000–$6,000 depending on complexity and platform.
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