It's the question I get asked the most. And the honest answer is: it depends. But I'll give you realistic price ranges based on my experience as a freelance developer, so you can budget your project with confidence.
Factors That Influence the Price
The cost of an app depends on three main variables: functional complexity, the number of target platforms (iOS only, Android only, or both), and the expected level of polish (custom design or template).
A login screen with email/password doesn't cost the same as biometric authentication with 2FA and Apple/Google sign-in. Each feature has its own complexity level.
The backend matters too. An app that works locally (calculator, todo list) costs much less than an app with user accounts, a database, and an API.
Realistic Price Ranges
Simple app (todo, calculator, showcase): between 3,000 and 8,000 euros. Few screens, no backend, basic features. Timeline: 2 to 4 weeks.
Mid-range app (e-commerce, CRM, basic social network): between 10,000 and 30,000 euros. Backend with API, authentication, data management. Timeline: 2 to 3 months.
Complex app (marketplace, fintech, AI-powered app): between 30,000 and 80,000+ euros. Distributed architecture, third-party integrations, enhanced security. Timeline: 4 to 8 months.
Freelancer vs Agency: Budget Impact
An agency typically charges 30 to 50% more than a freelancer for a comparable result. The price difference comes from overhead (offices, management, sales) rather than technical quality.
With a senior freelancer, you work directly with the person who writes the code. No middleman, no information loss, and much better responsiveness.
The trap to avoid: choosing the cheapest option. A developer at 200 euros/day who takes 6 months costs more than a senior at 500 euros/day who delivers in 2 months with maintainable code.
Hidden Costs to Anticipate
The Apple Developer account costs 99 euros per year, Google Play 25 euros (one-time fee). These are mandatory fees to publish on the stores.
Backend hosting (server, database) ranges from 20 to 200 euros per month depending on traffic. Cloud services like Supabase or Firebase offer free tiers to get started.
Maintenance is often forgotten in the initial budget. Plan for 15 to 20% of the development cost per year for updates, bug fixes, and adapting to new iOS and Android versions.
How to Optimize Your Budget
Launch with an MVP (Minimum Viable Product). Build the essential features first, validate the concept with your users, then iterate. It's the most effective method to avoid wasting budget on unnecessary features.
Prioritize a single platform initially. If your audience is mostly on iPhone, start with iOS. You'll add Android once the business model is validated.
Prepare a clear specification document before requesting a quote. The more precise your needs, the more accurate the quote. Bad surprises usually come from a poorly defined scope. I wrote a complete spec guide to help.
How to Get a Reliable Quote
A serious quote rests on three elements: a described functional scope, an estimate in days or fixed price, and a clear list of what's included (design, development, testing, publishing).
Be wary of one-line estimates with no questions. A good developer asks about your users, constraints, and goals before pricing.
Compare quotes at equivalent scope, not price alone. Two proposals at 15,000 euros can cover very different scopes. To choose the right partner, also read how to choose a mobile app developer.
Conclusion
The cost of a mobile app in 2026 ranges from 3,000 to 80,000+ euros depending on complexity. The key to controlling your budget: define your needs precisely, start with an MVP, and work with a developer who understands your business. Feel free to contact me for a free, personalized quote.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a simple mobile app cost in 2026?
A simple app (todo, calculator, showcase) costs between 3,000 and 8,000 euros. Few screens, no backend, basic features. Timeline: 2 to 4 weeks with an experienced freelance developer.
What's the price difference between a freelancer and an agency?
An agency typically charges 30 to 50% more than a senior freelancer for a comparable result. With a freelancer, you pay for development, not sales overhead and office costs.
Should I budget for maintenance?
Yes. Plan for 15 to 20% of the initial development cost per year for updates, bug fixes, and adapting to new iOS and Android versions.
How can I reduce the cost of my first app?
Launch an MVP with essential features, target a single platform initially, and write a clear specification document. These three levers reduce risk and cost without sacrificing quality.
Are App Store and Play Store accounts included in the quote?
No, these are your fees: 99 euros/year for Apple Developer and 25 euros one-time for Google Play Console. A good provider guides you to create them in your name.