How Much Does It Cost to Hire an App Developer?

Before you kick off app development, know your budget inside out. Today, the average cost of hiring an app developer in the U.S. is a whopping $132,270. That said, you can access more affordable app development options beyond U.S. borders.

So, how much does it cost to hire an app developer?

The short answer: it depends. In our app development pricing guide, we’ll analyze the average cost ranges involved in hiring app developers. We’ll go over key factors, including the app tech stack, developer skills, location, etc. Plus, we’ll give you expert tips on where to hire cost-efficient developers for your next project.

‍

‍

Factors Influencing App Developer Costs

To attain affordable app development, start by understanding the main factors in your budget. Doing so will help you answer “how much does it cost to hire an app developer?” more realistically.

Type of App

App development costs will vary according to the scope and complexity of the project. For instance, undertaking a simple mobile app will involve a lower price than an ecommerce or enterprise app.

App Tech Stack

Your app’s tech stack is another big factor at play. Whether iOS, Android, React Native, Xamarin or another mobile technology, pricing will range accordingly. Additionally, some native or cross-platform options may incur a higher upfront cost.

Developer Experience and Skill Set

Mobile app developer salaries hinge on the professional’s experience level and skills, too. Senior experts or those with in-demand specializations will require a larger budget.

Geographic Location

Get a sense of app developer rates by region. The most cost-effective destinations today are Latin America, Eastern Europe and Asia/Pacific. Keep in mind the concept of value as well. Overall, LatAm is known as a high-value region, due to mid-range rates for top-ranked professionals.

Engagement Model

Finally, how you hire an app developer impacts cost. Scalable engagement models such as staff augmentation or outsourced dedicated teams will help you control costs. Any long-term solutions can also boost savings by avoiding turnover and partially filled teams.

‍

Average Mobile App Developer Salary Ranges

Now let’s give an app development cost breakdown, so you can plan your budget in advance. A good rule of thumb for calculating app developer hourly rates is:

• Junior Developer: $25-$50/hour
• Mid-Level Developer: $50-$100/hour
• Senior Developer: $100-$200/hour

Even so, these rates may vary by location. As you can see above, app developers in the U.S. cost double that of their LatAm-based peers. Choosing outsourcing destinations is often ideal for reducing your app development costs.

What About the Cost of Freelance App Developers?

If you’re interested in alternatives, know that the cost of freelance app developers is between $58,000-$105,000. This is about on-par with LatAm salaries.

Yet, hiring freelancers may be riskier, as there’s no screening process involved. It’s not uncommon to hear stories of companies that use freelancers struggling with unreliable communication, lack of business alignment and a low-quality final product.

That’s why trusting a talent partner like us may be the safest – and still affordable – way to go. At TECLA, we’re proud to match businesses with elite, pre-vetted LatAm professionals at approximately half the cost of U.S. talent.

Average Mobile App Developer Salary Costs by Technology

The technology behind your mobile app is also a primary factor for cost. Get insight into app development costs for technologies in key countries above. Don’t forget: we also have a salary wizard available for even more specific calculations!

‍

Where to Find Affordable App Developers

To reap the benefits of affordable app developers, first you’ll need to find them. Generally speaking, you can access excellent global developers in several key ways – here are our recommendations.  

1. Compare Hiring Platforms and Agencies

Do your due diligence when looking at hiring platforms and agencies. LinkedIn, Clutch and developer-specific job boards are good starting places. Get to know the available talent and cost structures before committing to any solution.

2. Exhaust Your Tech Networks

Sometimes you can discover top-tier talent by leveraging known communities. Try connecting with app developers or agencies on social media or attending virtual developer events to meet candidates. Even asking around for recommended talent can be helpful.

3. Consider Nearshore Options in Latin America

Latin America is the hottest destination for outsourcing app developers today. You can’t go wrong with shared time zones, excellent talent and affordable rates. Just consider that remote hiring in this region is up 70% since 2020!

If you don’t have contacts in LatAm, it’s useful to hire a talent partner to connect you with top talent. A partner will have on-the-ground knowledge of networks, universities, local companies and developer profiles, as well as key hiring regulations.

4. Leverage TECLA App Developers

As you seek top-tier talent in Latin America, work with us. At TECLA, we tailor long-term talent solutions to meet your KPIs. We have a wealth of skilled TECLA app developers available within your time zone. In fact, we have 50,000+ professionals in our robust talent pool!

‍

Get the Best for Your Business With TECLA App Developers

How much does it cost to hire an app developer? With our app development pricing guide, you now have a stronger idea of how to calculate your budget. Often it depends on factors such as the tech stack, developer skills, location and more.

If you want to hire an app developer with maximum cost savings, reach out to our talent specialists. Using a first-rate talent partner like us is a high-value hiring method that drives business results. At TECLA, we’re known for promoting affordable and frictionless app development via our top-tier mobile developers in 18+ LatAm countries.

‍