Since its release in 2017, Flutter has become a major force in the cross-platform framework community. Using a single codebase, developers can create native-looking iOS and Android apps with this open-source mobile SDK.
Flutter is one of the best platforms for building mobile apps and has many benefits for companies. Mobile application development has been completely transformed by this open-source framework, maximizing business opportunities to reach the intended audience.
According to Statista, Flutter has been the most used mobile app development technology for four years in a row. Developers around the world use it to create adaptable apps that work on a wide variety of devices.
How much does it cost to develop a Flutter app?
The cost of developing a Flutter app cannot be determined in a generalized manner. Flutter app development involves several stages, each of which involves different variables. Each of these steps and elements (more details below) increases the cost of developing a Flutter app.
For comprehensive details on the Flutter app development process, check out A Detailed Guide to Flutter App Development.
In general, the price of developing a Flutter app can vary from $50,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on several development-related factors. As a result, it is important to take everything into account to find out the exact cost of developing a Flutter app. Let’s check them out:
Factors Affecting the Cost of Developing a Flutter App
The price of building a Flutter application varies greatly depending on many variables. These variables include the app’s complexity, features and functionalities, hardware configuration, UI/UX design, location of the development team, and level of experience required.
Following are some of the important factors that affect the price of developing the Flutter mobile app.
App Complexity
Flutter apps can be divided into three subcategories based on the degree of app complexity: basic, moderately complex, and highly complex. In each category, we list the features, functionalities, and integrations.
- Depending on the app complexity level described, it will cost between $50,000 and $60,000 to develop a basic app with simple features, such as a fitness app that suggests meals and workouts.
- If you want to build a medium-complex app, such as a messenger app with audio and video calling capabilities, the cost to develop a Flutter app is around $60,000 to $80,000.
App Category
The cost largely depends on the category or type of app you are building. Different app categories, including social networking, e-commerce, gaming, healthcare, and enterprise apps, have different features and requirements. For example, developing an advanced e-commerce application with payment gateway integration and inventory management will usually be more expensive than developing a basic utility app. The specific features of the app category you choose will affect the cost of development.
UI/UX Design
One of the most important factors affecting the development cost of a Flutter app is its UI/UX design. For example, an aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly design is more expensive than a basic and minimalist app design. Although you have a choice in how your app is designed, user-friendly layouts and animations foster a more intimate connection between the user and the application.
Tools and Licensing
Although Flutter can be used for free in the business world, you may need to invest in various tools and integrations to increase functionality and speed up the development process. For example, it becomes necessary to integrate third-party APIs, which allow programs to communicate with each other using predefined protocols. Furthermore, more widespread use may require more sophisticated APIs.
Server Location
If processing and storing user-generated data is part of your app, you’ll need to take server-related considerations into account. Extended user response times and poor app performance may be caused by inadequate server infrastructure.
Additionally, unstable security measures on untrusted servers increase the risk of data breaches that could expose users’ private information. An 8-core CPU, more RAM, and a server running around the clock typically runs around $1500 per year. However, prices may change if your project calls for a specially designed-server to meet the demands.
Location of development teams
Another important factor affecting the overall cost of app development is the location of your Flutter app development company. For example, developers in more expensive areas typically charge more for their services than developers in less expensive areas.
Depending on where your app development company is located, the following is an approximate breakdown of Flutter app development cost:
Development Resources
A major factor affecting the cost of developing a Flutter app is the selection of development resources. Each of these options – freelancer, internal team, or contracted development firm – has its advantages and disadvantages.
Although independent contractors may charge lower per-hour fees, they may not provide the same level of resources or experience as a well-established agency. Although internal teams incur more overhead, they generally have more control over the project. Depending on their experience and location, outsourced developers can offer a mix of savings and expertise. The choices you make about your development team will significantly impact how much your Flutter mobile app development will cost in total.
How Can Your Flutter App Development Budget Be Reduced and Optimised?
If Flutter app development is not optimized quickly, costs can quickly escalate and exceed your budget. So, how do you make sure you get a high-quality Flutter app without going over budget? To get the most out of Flutter app development without breaking the budget, consider these tips:
Reduce Your App’s Features
Make sure the features you add are only those that are necessary to provide the best possible app experience. You’ll save money on app development expenses and increase customer satisfaction by keeping your Flutter app functional but minimal.
Please feel free to review How to Successfully Develop a Flutter Web App for a more in-depth look at the key features of Flutter apps.
Take An Agile Approach
It is essential to plan your development process according to the Continuous Integration/Continuous Development (CI/CD) paradigm and iterations. It is less expensive to fix errors and similar problems during the coding phase with an accelerated development strategy than to fix them during the “ready-to-launch” phase.
Use MVP first
An MVP is an early version of your software that has the essential features and capabilities needed to satisfy beta testers and gather input for further development. Using this method will help you avoid spending money on unnecessary features and validate your app idea with real users.
Outsource Your Needs
Outsourcing your Flutter app development is a very effective way to control costs and time. Working with a full-service Flutter app development company (like Alcax) is a better option than managing multiple developers on your own.
From Flutter app ideation and consulting to app migration and deployment, we provide a comprehensive range of Flutter app development services. We also provide helpful assistance in post-launch support maintenance, which can save costs and reduce the likelihood of future app outages.
