Building a mobile app is one of the most significant investments a business can make. Costs vary widely depending on complexity, platform, and the team you choose. Here is a transparent breakdown for Chicago businesses.
Simple MVP Apps ($25,000 – $60,000)
A lean mobile MVP with core functionality — user authentication, a few key screens, and basic backend integration — typically falls in this range. This is ideal for startups looking to validate an idea quickly.
Mid-Complexity Apps ($60,000 – $150,000)
Apps with custom designs, third-party integrations (payments, maps, notifications), and a polished user experience. Most business apps for iOS or Android fall here.
Complex / Enterprise Apps ($150,000+)
Apps with real-time features, complex data models, HIPAA compliance, custom APIs, or AI/ML components require larger budgets and longer timelines. Enterprise apps often exceed $250,000.
What Affects the Cost Most
- **Platform**: Native iOS and Android cost more than cross-platform (React Native or Flutter)
- **Design complexity**: Custom animations and unique UI components add cost
- **Integrations**: Payment gateways, analytics, CRMs, and ERPs all add scope
- **Team location**: Chicago-based agencies generally cost $100–$200/hr
How We Price Projects
We provide fixed-price quotes after a free discovery session. No surprises — you know the full cost before we write a single line of code.