Today everything comes in apps. Your calendar, dating, medicine trackers, food, etc. If you think about something, this app already exists. But who are those who turn a paper calendar into an app? Mobile app developers. In this blog post, we will discuss, the costs of hiring one for your team.
A mobile app developer does much more than just write code. They’re responsible for translating an app idea into a functional app that users can engage with seamlessly. It’s not just tech for tech — the goal is to create a product that genuinely connects with users. Whether it’s creating basic apps with simple features or complex apps with advanced functionality like push notifications and in-app payments support, app developers must understand the mobile app development process from start to finish. This includes planning the app’s structure, ensuring it works on various mobile platforms (iOS, Android), and optimizing it to use smartphone hardware features effectively.
Most app development projects involve collaboration among different types of app developers. For example, iOS developers specialize in Apple’s Swift and Objective-C, while Android app developers work with Kotlin and Java. In some cases, you may also need to hire Python developers for backend tasks, especially when managing data or integrating complex functionalities. This teamwork extends beyond coding; developers often work closely with app development companies, designers, and software developers to create a cohesive app user profile and engaging mobile app design.
Because of the skills required, the cost to hire an app developer isn’t just about an hourly rate. From third-party API integration to managing app complexity, the cost of hiring a skilled developer reflects the expertise and tools necessary to create a top-quality app that stands out in today’s market of millions of mobile apps.
Seniority is a huge factor. Based on experience, an employee can and will demand fair compensation. Junior developers typically charge less and work in the area of hard skills, while mid-level or senior developers with extensive project experience and a pull of soft skills command higher rates. Here’s a rough estimation:
While the situation may differ in different regions and economies, the international market balances itself and offers a stable impression of what you should pay an app developer based on their seniority.
The particular skills required for the app’s development will also influence the cost. Developers proficient in widely used technologies may be more affordable, while those skilled in niche or emerging technologies could be more expensive. Examples include:
Geographic location plays a crucial role in app developer costs. Here’s a broad overview:
These are averages, and some regions may have higher or lower costs based on the developer’s experience and skills.
The type of hiring arrangement impacts overall costs, with each type bringing its own advantages and considerations.
The cost of hiring an app developer varies widely depending on a range of factors. For anyone exploring how to start a tech startup, understanding these costs is crucial. When you’re considering how much does it cost to hire an app developer, you’re not only looking at the developer’s hourly rate or salary. App development costs are influenced by factors such as experience, skills, location, project scope, and even the type of app you want to build. Let’s start with hard skills.
JavaScript is a must for just about any app that needs interactive elements or functionality on the front end. If your app has buttons, drop-down menus, or animations, a developer with strong JavaScript skills can make everything work seamlessly. It’s also the foundation for a lot of popular front-end frameworks, like React and Angular, which bring a lot of flexibility to building web apps and even parts of mobile apps.
If you’re aiming for an iOS app, you’ll want someone fluent in Swift, Apple’s language for iOS and macOS development. Swift is known for being faster and safer than Objective-C, Apple’s older language, so most iOS developers lean on it. Swift is perfect for building native apps for iPhones, iPads, and even Apple Watch if you’re looking to add wearable compatibility. If you're considering how to hire remote developers for your project, keep in mind that some may also be proficient in Objective-C, which can come in handy for maintaining older iOS apps.
For Android apps, Kotlin has become the go-to language. Google made it the official Android development language a few years back because it’s more modern and efficient than Java, which was previously the default. Kotlin is ideal for creating smooth, responsive Android apps, while Java is still useful for legacy apps or situations where Android and web compatibility are needed. For startups exploring how to outsource software development, especially for Android, understanding the benefits of Kotlin versus Java can be a helpful starting point to make informed decisions.
Flutter is a bit of a game-changer if you’re interested in a single app that works on both iOS and Android. Developed by Google, it allows developers to write one codebase that runs smoothly on both platforms. Flutter uses Dart, a language that lets developers create beautiful, fast, and responsive interfaces. If you want to save time and budget by avoiding separate iOS and Android apps, Flutter’s the way to go.
React Native is another popular option for building cross-platform apps, especially for companies that already use React for their web apps. It lets developers write code that works for both Android and iOS, but it has a unique twist. Since it’s JavaScript-based, when you hire React Native developers, they can easily create apps with complex, dynamic interfaces that feel similar to a web app. React Native is widely used by companies that prioritize speed and smooth user experiences.
A solid app needs a strong backend, especially if it’s data-driven or needs user accounts and logins. Backend frameworks like Node.js, Ruby on Rails, and Python/Django handle everything from storing data to powering the logic behind the app’s features. If your app requires storing user data, managing content, or processing payments, you’ll want a developer who’s comfortable with these backend technologies.
Databases are crucial if your app will store any kind of data—think user profiles, content, or transaction history. SQL databases (like MySQL and PostgreSQL) are well-suited for complex data and work well for apps that need structured storage. NoSQL databases like MongoDB are more flexible and work well for apps with unstructured data or real-time data needs, like messaging or news feeds.
APIs are the key to connecting your app to other services or systems, which can make or break an app’s functionality. Whether you want to add maps, payment gateways, social media sharing, or data from external sources, a good developer needs experience working with APIs and integrating third-party services. This skill keeps your app versatile and lets you add features without building everything from scratch.
Git is essential for managing code, especially in projects where more than one developer is involved. It lets developers keep track of changes, collaborate without stepping on each other’s toes, and revert to earlier versions if something goes wrong. Git also makes it easier to manage updates and add features over time, which is a big plus if your app will evolve after launch.
While UI/UX design might not be a developer’s main job, a good app developer should understand the basics of design and user experience. Things like responsive layouts, intuitive navigation, and accessibility make a huge difference in how people experience your app. A developer with some UI/UX knowledge can work better with designers or handle simpler design tasks on their own.
The mobile app development process comes with a fair share of unexpected problems, from fixing bugs to ensuring push notifications work correctly. When you hire a mobile app developer with solid problem-solving skills, they can navigate these hurdles effectively. This skill is particularly important for complex app projects where the app development cost is higher and challenges often arise. Skilled problem-solvers save time and help avoid extra app maintenance costs, making the app development budget go further.
Clear communication makes sure everyone — from the app development team to clients — stays aligned. A mobile app developer who can explain tech concepts in simple terms is a huge plus. This skill is particularly valuable in established app development companies that handle diverse projects, from CRM software development to mobile apps, or when hiring freelance app developers, as it keeps the whole development process smooth. Good communication also helps the app developer get quick feedback on the app idea, saving you time and app development costs.
With a million mobile apps out there, technology changes fast. Mobile app developers need to keep up. Whether they’re working on Android apps, iOS apps, or cross-platform apps, adaptability is key. A flexible app developer can pivot quickly to new tools, tech stacks, or third-party apps, which is essential for long-term app performance and compatibility across mobile platforms.
Deadlines matter in any app development project, especially when you’re working with a tight app development budget. A mobile app developer who knows how to manage time will help keep the app development costs in check. Strong time management means they can prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and make sure your app project launches on schedule. This skill keeps the development team organized, avoids bottlenecks, and keeps the cost to hire in line with your expectations.
When app developers focus on the little things, you get a better app. Details matter, especially when it comes to app user profile design, in-app payments support, or even Apple watch support. Small mistakes can add up to big issues, so hiring app developers with a keen eye for detail is essential. This skill reduces app maintenance costs down the road and ensures that your functional app runs without hiccups.
Creating a great app often requires a team effort, whether you’re working with Android developers, iOS developers, or software developers handling the backend. An app developer who collaborates well with existing team members makes the whole app development process easier. Collaboration ensures that every part of the mobile app — from design to functionality — comes together smoothly, creating a cohesive, user-friendly experience.
At the end of the day, mobile apps are about the users. When you hire a front end developer with a user-centric mindset, they focus on building apps that people genuinely want to use. They think about the app user profile, app complexity, and mobile app design to create an experience that feels intuitive. This mindset helps keep app features relevant, making your app idea stand out in the sea of several million mobile apps.
When it comes to hiring an app developer, the options can feel overwhelming, especially with so many app development companies and mobile app development platforms available. If you’re looking to understand how much it costs to hire an app developer with specific skills, including if you need to hire a full stack developer, platforms like Toptal, Guru, and Gigster offer unique benefits. Toptal connects clients with highly vetted app developers and software developers, making it a strong choice for mobile app development projects with a high app development price tag. However, this level of curation can increase app development costs significantly.
Guru and Gigster also bring distinct advantages for hiring app developers. Guru offers a broad marketplace for freelance app developers and mobile app developers, providing flexible pricing for projects of any scope, from simple apps to more complex apps. Gigster operates as a managed service, creating custom app development teams for larger projects. This approach is beneficial for established app development companies or businesses with a significant app development budget. When working with massive platforms, you should consider their alternatives. We already have written an article about Gigster alternatives for you to enjoy.
For a more balanced and versatile approach, we, at Empat, stand out as a top app development company. We have a strong track record, with over 300 successful app projects. We combine high-quality expertise with a focus on client needs and flexible pricing, to be a perfect fit for businesses looking to hire an app developer without overcomplicating the development process.
Unlike other platforms, we provide services for businesses of different scales, including startups and larger businesses with customizable, scalable teams. Our Android app developers, iOS developers, and cross-platform app developers make sure that the solutions we deliver are fit for any purpose from Fintech to Healthcare. Whether your app idea requires user-generated content complexity, third-party API integration, or specialized mobile software features, we provide the expertise to match various app development budgets.
In today’s app-driven world, hiring the right app developer is essential for transforming your idea into a functional, user-friendly product. With many factors influencing the cost — such as experience level, technical skills, location, and contract type — it’s clear that choosing a developer or development team isn’t a one-size-fits-all process.
While platforms like Toptal, Guru, and Gigster offer valuable options, we provide quality, client-focused approach, and flexibility. We combine technical expertise with personalized service, providing scalable teams created specifically to meet your project's needs — whether you’re a startup or an established business.
If you’re ready to get started on building your app with a partner who prioritizes your goals, contact us. Our team of developers is ready to help bring your vision to life, ensuring you get a product that meets high standards without a complicated process.
Depending on who you ask, the figures often differ, and sometimes very drastically. According to Clutch, most app developers charge between $25 - $150 per hour. The marketplace also stated the average cost of mobile development projects, ranging from $10,000 to $50,000.
You can hire freelance mobile app developers to build your app or hire a mobile app development agency. When hiring someone to build your app, know your requirements, focus on essential features, and interview several freelancers and agencies before making your hire.
Designing a basic app, similar to creating a simple sketch, typically falls between the range of $5,000 to $10,000. On the other hand, a more advanced app design can range from $15,000 to $20,000. For highly complex apps with extensive features, the design cost can exceed $20,000.
On average, app owners should expect to spend around $2,000 to $2,500 a month initially to keep the app running optimally.
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