What does it cost to develop an app in 2024? A complete guide to native apps and PWAs

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app-development

The costs for app development in 2024 range from NOK 50,000 to NOK 2 million. With modern web technologies like Progressive Web Apps (PWAs), development costs can often be significantly reduced. This guide provides you with a detailed overview of what you can expect to pay for various types of app solutions.

Costs for Different App Types in 2024

Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)

  • Basic PWA: NOK 40,000 - 150,000
  • Advanced PWA with full functionality: NOK 150,000 - 800,000
  • E-commerce PWA: NOK 200,000 - 1,000,000

Native Apps

  • Basic native app: NOK 100,000 - 300,000
  • App with backend: NOK 300,000 - 1,200,000
  • Complex native app: Starting from NOK 1,000,000

Pro-Tip: A PWA built with Next.js or React can reduce development costs by up to 40% compared to native apps.

Why Consider PWAs in 2024?

Market data shows several advantages of PWA solutions:

  • Lower development costs: A single codebase for all platforms
  • Faster time to market: Typically 30-50% shorter development time
  • Easier maintenance: Updates roll out immediately
  • Broad accessibility: Works on all modern devices
  • SEO-friendly: Improved visibility in search engines

Cost Factors in Modern App Development

PWA-Specific Costs

  • Frontend development (React/Next.js): 30-40% of the budget
  • PWA optimization: 10-15% of the budget
  • Testing and performance optimization: 15-20% of the budget

Native App Costs

  • Platform-specific development: 40-50% of the budget
  • App Store customizations: 10-15% of the budget
  • Native features and APIs: 20-30% of the budget

Cost-Saving Strategies

Industry experience shows that these strategies can reduce development costs:

  • Consider PWA first: Ideal for most business apps
  • Use modern frameworks:
    • Next.js for top performance and SEO
    • React for complex user interfaces
    • Tailwind CSS for fast styling
  • Serverless backend: Reduces infrastructure costs
  • Headless CMS: Simplifies content management

Hidden Costs of Different App Types

PWA

  • Hosting: NOK 500 - 2000/month
  • SSL certificates: NOK 0 - 1000/year
  • CDN costs: Starting from NOK 500/month

Native Apps

  • App Store fees: NOK 990/year (Apple) / NOK 250 (Google)
  • Server rental: NOK 1000 - 5000/month
  • Push notifications: Starting from NOK 1000/month

Key Factors When Choosing a Development Partner

A successful app project requires a partner with:

  • Solid technical expertise on the chosen platform
  • Proven experience with similar projects
  • Good project methodology
  • Clear communication

Frequently Asked Questions About App Development

  • When should you choose a PWA over a native app? PWAs are ideal when you need broad accessibility and a quick market launch.
  • Can a PWA replace a native app? In many cases, yes, especially for business apps and e-commerce.
  • What about maintenance costs? PWAs typically have 30-40% lower maintenance costs than native apps.

Conclusion

Modern app development is about choosing the right technology for specific needs. PWAs built with React or Next.js can often provide the same functionality as native apps at a significantly lower cost. The key is to conduct a thorough analysis of the project's needs and choose a solution that delivers the best value for the investment.

Start your app journey today

Frequently Asked Questions About App Development

  • How long does it take to develop an app?

    A simple app typically takes 2-3 months to develop. More complex apps can take 4-8 months. PWAs often have a development time that is 30-40% shorter than native apps.

  • What is the difference between a native app and a PWA?

    A native app is developed specifically for iOS or Android and is installed from app stores. A PWA (Progressive Web App) is a web application that functions like a regular app but runs in the browser and can be used on all devices.

  • How much does it cost to maintain an app?

    Annual maintenance costs typically range from 15-20% of the original development cost for native apps, and 8-12% for PWAs. This includes updates, bug fixes, and minor improvements.

  • Does the app need to be developed for both iOS and Android?

    Not necessarily. With a PWA solution, you can reach both platforms with a single codebase. For native apps, you can start with one platform and expand later based on feedback and needs.

  • What hidden costs should one expect?

    The most common additional costs include server rental (500-5000 NOK/month), App Store fees (990 NOK/year for Apple), security certificates, backup systems, and marketing.

  • Can you start with a simple version and expand it later?

    Yes, this is often the recommended approach. Start with an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) with core functionality and expand based on actual user data and feedback.

  • How does the choice of technology affect costs?

    The choice of technology can significantly affect costs. PWAs and cross-platform solutions are often 30-50% more affordable than separate native apps. Modern frameworks like React and Next.js can also reduce development time.

  • Is it possible to convert a website into an app?

    Yes, an existing website can be converted into a PWA relatively easily. This is often more cost-effective than developing a completely new native app.

  • What is the most important thing to consider before starting app development?

    The most important factors are:

    • Clearly defined goals and target audience
    • Realistic budget and timeline
    • Choice of the right technology and platform
    • Plan for launch and marketing
    • Strategy for maintenance and updates

  • How do you choose the right development partner?

    How do you choose the right development partner? Look for:

    • Documented experience with the chosen technology
    • Portfolio with similar projects
    • Clear communication and project methodology
    • Transparent pricing model
    • Good customer references