IOS App Development Cost in 2025 | Complete Guide

Introduction

Here’s a statistic that may surprise you: over 2.1 billion IOS apps were downloaded in the United States alone, in just 2024 (Statista). That’s nuts, right? With numbers like this; it’s a bit of a no-brainer to look at IOS app development options, and I don’t blame both start-ups & existing brands for spending big bucks in IOS app development. All that said, the challenge is that businesses seem to always go into this without having any idea of what their real IOS app development cost & budget are supposed to look like.

Let’s be real for a second; do you know what the average IOS App Development Cost in USA is right now? Or what it might cost to build an IOS app for your start-up in 2025? If your answer is no – you are already in the area of blowing your budget. Luckily for you, this guide has broken everything down for you. What factors drive up the costs, how app developers determine cost, & how you can work smarter with an IOS app development service to avoid those ugly surprises.

Key Factors That Influence IOS App Development Cost

Here’s the reality; two IOS apps are never going to be built at the same cost. It depends on how complex your project is, along with the decisions you make throughout the development process. If you are wondering what really drives up (or keeps down) the IOS App Development Cost, I am going to break it down for you.

1. App Complexity

Give it some thought. Are you looking for a simple app with a log-in and a profile page, or are you developing a blend of marketplace apps like Uber, or Airbnb? The more complexity, the more hours of coding, testing, and iterating. This is one of the factors that will most impact your IOS app development cost.

2. UI/UX Design

Here’s a stat for you: According to Clutch (2024), in the USA, UI/UX design is part of the total project cost approximately 20–30% of the entire project cost. So if you want images that are nice to look at, and a user journey that flows without bumps, plan for that. The cost of IOS app design UI and UX in the USA be higher than a lot of places because businesses in the USA often compete on customer experience.

3. Features and Functionality

Every feature adds more time (and more dollars). A simple payment gateway will be manageable. But if you start looking at AI chatbots, Geolocation, Real Time Tracking or something complicated, your app development costs can pile up quickly.

4. Backend and API Integration

If you want to link your app to third party tools (Stripe, Google Maps, CRMs ) then you need to API integrate, and its not free. The more integrations you need, the more your development cost.

5. Development Approach

This is where process is important. Agile developers, who use agile development techniques, are known for overall speed in the development process and finding bugs early, however agile also relies on continuous iterations in build time. If one is not managing budget and time very well, it can push budgets.

When thinking about IOS App Development Cost in 2025, we are not just looking at the cost of hiring app developers. We are looking at how you design, build and integrate the unique features of your app. The more planning that happens early, the less chance there is costly surprises later.

IOS App Development Cost Breakdown (By App Type)

So how much does it really cost to build the various kinds of IOS apps in 2025? Well, it depends highly on what type of app you are developing. The pricing model is going to be remarkably different for a simple utility app and a complex e-commerce platform or a full augmented reality game.  Let’s take a look.

Average U.S. Developer Rates

So first let’s consider, in the U.S., app developers typically are expected to charge from between $75–$150 per hour (Statista, 2024). So, even simple app costs can add up quickly if hiring local.  Many IOS app development companies incorporate this consideration in their pricing.

Cost Breakdown by App Type

 What This Means for You

• If you’re considering an e-commerce platform, the IOS app development costs e-commerce can easily double for a six-figure price tag due to secure payments, large product databases and integrations with shipping providers.
• Thinking about gaming? The IOS gaming app development costs USA are going to have among the highest averages because of the demand for advanced graphics and seamless performance.
• For startups, basic apps are still the cheapest option, but you’re still looking at tens of thousands.

The app type has a major effect on your budget. Before getting into IOS app development projects, ask yourself – Do I need a fully featured platform now, or do I start small and scale? That answer could save you tens of thousands of dollars.

IOS vs Android Development Cost – Which is More Budget-Friendly?

A common question businesses ask themselves before even launching a mobile project is “Should I build IOS or Android first?”. The answer is never as simple as those 11 words above suggest- it really depends on your audience, budget, and long-term goals. Let’s break it down.

Market Share in the U.S.

According to StatCounter (2025), IOS currently has ~57% market share in U.S. while Android has ~42%. This is why many companies in the U.S. choose to tackle IOS development first even if it costs slightly more upfront investment. If the audience you are targeting is American consumers, IOS often makes the most sense.

Cost Comparison: IOS vs Android

When it comes to the actual IOS App Development Cost, it is slightly higher than Android. Why? Because IOS users expect to get polished design, best-in-class security, and smooth user experiences- all of which means more development time and more testing.

• IOS App Development Cost (U.S.): Generally $25,000 – $150,000+ depending on complexity.
• Android App Development Cost (U.S.): Generally slightly lower than IOS, averaging $20,000 – $120,000+ because there are a lot of devices we have to worry about and lower app store fees.

However, while the Android development may appear “budget-friendly” in theory, the development time can increase due to HUGE number of Android devices that need to be tested. This creates a tendency to offset the savings.

Why Businesses Often Choose IOS First

Despite being more expensive, many agencies advising on app development often suggest IOS first for the following reasons:

• It generates a bigger revenue trajectory: IOS users spend 2.5x more than Android users on apps and in-app purchases (Data: App Annie 2024).
• It has a simpler ecosystem: Because there are fewer device variations, IOS makes testing and rolling out easier and faster.
• It lends credibility: Many startups view IOS as a badge of honor because the App Store has strict standards for quality.

The Big Question: IOS or Android First?

In terms of the difference in cost for the apps between IOS or Android, you have to ask yourself: IOS might be a little more upfront, but it will often yield a better ROI in the U.S. market. However, if you are targeting an international audience, or confined to a budget, Android may be the preferred first build.

Additional Costs: Maintenance, Updates, and Scaling

Here’s a question that often gets overlooked by business owners: “Once the app goes live, how much will it cost to keep it going?” Your budget does not end when the app goes live. In fact, IOS App Development Cost can run long after your app is launched.

The Actual cost of Maintenance

Industry benchmarks indicate that an IOS app maintenance cost per year is typically 15-20% of the initial development budget. Therefore, if your first build was $80,000, you should expect to spend $12,000-$16,000 per year just to maintain levels of stability and security.

It is not an option to avoid maintenance while retaining an app in your portfolio; it is a must. Maintenance includes updates of new IOS versions, security patches, and bug fixes. If updates are avoided, your app may crash or become unusable in the future with newer iPhones.

Updates & Feature Enhancements

Consider how many times you have seen the apps you like updated with new features? Users expect you to do better all the time. Adding new features, improving UX, and adding third-party APIs all come with costs. An app development company using agile development techniques can help you absorb these costs in smaller more predictable sprints over time rather than large amounts surprise bills.

The Hidden Costs of Scaling

This is where companies can be lost: hidden IOS app development costs USA. When your app moves from 1,000 users to 100,000 users, your server, your database, and your cloud infrastructure also need to scale. This means your monthly hosting bills increase and there are added development hours to optimize the app to handle a larger volume.

For example:

• Cloud hosting (ex. AWS, Firebase, etc.) can start at a few hundred dollars a month, but it can easily get to thousands quickly as you scale up using them.
• Security compliance updates (ex. HIPAA, GDPR) can take specialized audits as well as ongoing patches.

So, is the initial IOS App Development Cost your only investment? Far from it—think about it like a car; you don’t just have to pay for the car, there is also gas, servicing, upgrades, etc. And if you budget for maintenance, updates, and scaling early, it saves you potential headaches later.

How to Budget Smartly for IOS App Development in the USA

Here is a question a startup founder will ask themselves at least once: “How do I budget for IOS app development cost USA, without spending all my money?”. The reality is that your IOS app development cost will be based on not only the features, but how you plan and prioritize your spending.

1. Start with an MVP (Minimum Viable Product)

Do you need all of the features on day one? Probably not. A smart approach is to launch with a minimum viable product, the most needed functionally your users will require. This can reduce your initial IOS app development cost budget by approximately 30-40% & allow you to test if there is enough demand in the market before adding sophisticated features.

2. Use Agile Development to Stay Flexible

Traditional “big bang” builds bust budgets because changes add expense. By using IOS app development companies that practice agile development, you will be developing in smaller iterations, receive feedback quicker, and lose less money developing features users don’t want. Agile has the potential to mitigate development risk, while distributing costs into seasoned parts.

3. Outsource Smartly (Understanding Costs)

Hiring the right team can make or break your budget. The costs of versioning an app can vary widely, but on average:

• Fees for full service U.S. based app development agencies: $100 – $150/hour
• Offshore developers in India, Eastern Europe, LATAM: $25 – $50/hour

In terms of cost for IOS App Development Services, hiring on a hybrid model typically works best; strategic planning with a US firm and offshore development for the execution. This typically balances cost efficiency and quality.

4. Plan for Hidden Expenses

It’s not only development costs; there are many other costs like design, testing and App Store Fees (Apple Developer Program $99/year). Always budget for extra costs. Forgetting about additional costs is among the reasons budgets explode.

So what is the best way to manage your IOS App Development Cost? Think lean. Focus on your MVP, use agile methodologies and determine the right blend of local and offshore resources.  By following a systematic strategy, you will not only save money but increase your likelihood of achieving a successful, scalable app.

Choosing the Right IOS App Development Company

Here’s the million dollar question: Given a myriad of IOS app development companies, how do you find one that will actually work? After all, as mentioned before, your IOS App Development Cost will not simply consider features – it will also be a product of the quality and depth of experience of the IOS app development firm that you select.

What to Look For in the Best IOS App Development Company USA

Not all IOS app development companies will be equal. To mitigate poorly informed choices, here is a quick checklist you might want to have in mind:

1. Portfolio & Case Studies

• Does the company openly present apps they have actually developed?
• Look for apps that were potentially similar to what you envision (same industry, same complexity, same features).

2. UI/UX Expertise

• Smooth design is not simply aesthetics – it keeps the user engaged.
• Companies that prioritize user-centric design see up to 200% more user retention (Forrester Research).

3. Industry Experience

• Do they have experience working with start-ups, enterprises or your industry?
• A healthcare app has much different compliance than an e-commerce application

4. Agile Methodology

• Do they build in iterations, test continuously, and adapt more quickly?
• Agile reduces risk and avoids scope creep which is an unfathomable factor in your IOS App development Cost

5. Ongoing Support & Maintenance

• Do they offer post-launch support?
• Remember updates, bug fixes, and new OS renews happen on the way to the great app.

Why This Matters

If you’re thinking to yourself, “Should I just hire IOS app developers near me?”—location is less relevant than capability.  Local firms may offer convenience of in-person meetings, but in a global market, you will likely find a better cost alternative with similar quality.

The best IOS app development company USA is a firm that aligns with your business goals, can openly communicate the price, and treat your app as investment—this should be a long-term relationship as opposed to a transaction.

Conclusion

Is the IOS App Development Cost really worth it? The short answer is yes, if you look at it long term. IOS apps usually require a greater initial investment than Android; however, in return businesses in the U.S. see greater returns as they earn more from IOS users. In the U.S., IOS users spend almost 80% more on in-app purchases than Android users (Statista, 2024). Therefore, the ROI of IOS app development in USA is more than just app development, it is access to a paying, premium audience who values quality and convenience in their purchases.

The long term benefits of IOS app development services go beyond profits, as IOS apps provide solutions that allow for better retention, ease of updates, and more visibility in app stores that help your business grow. Choosing the right IOS app development cost options today also means laying down the groundwork for continued growth tomorrow.

Are you interested in building your own IOS app? Contact AGTC expert app developers today for a free cost estimate.

FAQ

1. What’s the average IOS App Development Cost in 2025 for startups?

Simply put, expect to need anywhere between $30,000–$150,000 for a quality and scalable app. Basic MVPs start around $30K, customized and fully-featured apps can get close to $150K.

2. How much is IOS App Development Cost for maintenance and updates?

Typically, annual maintenance runs between 15-20% of the initial development cost. For example, a $100K app can expect to cost about $15K – $20K per year to keep up to date and secure.

3. What factors most influence IOS App Development Cost in the USA?

Most important elements of IOS app development cost is app complexity, quality UI/UX design, maintainable backend, third party integrations such as APIs or widgets – all of which add hours & dollars to your end budget.

4. Can outsourcing reduce IOS App Development Cost effectively?

Yes. U.S. developers will typically run $100 – $150/hour, whereas offshore teams typically range from $25 – $50/hour. This could even include a hybrid strategy, such as a U.S. based development team to work on the strategy and then offshore teams to execute.

5. Are there hidden costs to consider beyond development?

For sure. Hidden costs could involve App Store – $99/year, to buy or license devices, last or/incorporated API subscriptions, cloud hosting, marketing, and advertising. For some projects, these can sum up to 30% – 50% of the original development cost.