Thinking of building a mobile app in the UK? You're not alone. Whether you’re a startup founder with a bright idea or a business owner aiming to scale up, developing a mobile app can be a game-changer. But before diving in, there’s one question almost every client asks first: “How much does mobile app development cost in the UK?”
In this blog, we’ll break it all down for you—no confusing jargon, no tech-speak. Just straight answers about costs, what influences them, and how to make smart choices. Ready to build your app the right way? Let’s get started.
Why You Need to Understand Mobile App Development Costs
Getting a clear picture of the mobile app development cost UK isn’t just about budgeting—it's about planning your entire digital journey. Knowing what goes into the cost helps you:
Avoid hidden charges
Choose the right features
Hire the right team
Set realistic timelines
Stay on track with your business goals
At Codestruk, we help UK clients like you turn app ideas into real, working solutions—without breaking the bank. And it all starts with understanding the cost puzzle.
So, What Is the Average Mobile App Development Cost in the UK?
Let’s get straight to it. The average mobile app development cost UK typically falls between £20,000 to £100,000 depending on complexity. Here's a basic breakdown:
Type of App | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
Basic app (2-3 features) | £10,000 - £20,000 |
Medium app | £25,000 - £50,000 |
Complex app (e.g. Uber) | £60,000 - £150,000 |
Remember, these are rough figures. Real costs depend on several factors, which we’ll explore next.
Factors That Influence Mobile App Development Cost in the UK
Not all apps are created equal, and neither are their budgets. Let’s look at the top factors that shape the final cost:
1. App Complexity
The more complex your app, the more time and resources it needs. For example:
Simple apps with basic forms and login = lower cost
Apps with payment gateways, real-time chat, GPS tracking = higher cost
If you're unsure about how complex your idea is, Codestruk can help you map it out.
2. Number of Features
More features = more development hours. Ask yourself: Do I need all of these at launch? Sometimes, launching a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) first can save a lot of money.
3. Design Requirements
Design is more than just how it looks—it’s about usability. Custom UI/UX designs can cost more but deliver better user engagement.
4. Platform: iOS, Android, or Both?
iOS only may cost less if your audience is primarily Apple users.
Android only can also be budget-friendly.
Both? That doubles the effort unless you go for cross-platform development using Flutter or React Native.
At Codestruk, we help clients choose the best platform strategy for their goals and budget.
5. Backend Infrastructure
Apps that need a backend—like social media apps or e-commerce apps—will require databases, APIs, admin panels, and more. This adds to the cost.
6. Maintenance & Updates
Don't forget the post-launch costs. Updating your app, fixing bugs, and scaling it up will also require ongoing investment.
In-House vs. Outsourcing: Which Is Cheaper?
Let’s break it down:
In-House Team:
Full control
High cost (salaries, equipment, software licenses)
Slower for startups
Outsourcing to an Agency like Codestruk:
Lower costs
Faster delivery
Full team (developers, designers, testers) included
Zero overheads
Outsourcing smartly is one of the best ways to reduce the mobile app development cost UK without compromising quality.
Cost-Saving Tips Without Sacrificing Quality
If you’re on a budget, don’t worry. You can still build a great app without overspending. Here’s how:
✅ Start with an MVP
Build only the core features first. Launch fast. Gather feedback. Improve.
✅ Go Cross-Platform
Using frameworks like Flutter can reduce time and cost by building one app for both iOS and Android.
✅ Use Open-Source Tools
Many backend solutions and libraries can speed up development without sacrificing quality.
✅ Pick the Right Partner
A transparent, experienced team like Codestruk will never overcharge or push unnecessary features. You’ll only pay for what adds real value.
Real-World Example: What a Typical App Might Cost
Let’s say you want to build a food delivery app. Here’s a rough cost breakdown:
Feature | Estimated Hours | Estimated Cost (@£50/hr) |
|---|---|---|
User registration | 20 | £1,000 |
Search & filter restaurants | 30 | £1,500 |
Order placement & payment | 40 | £2,000 |
Driver tracking (GPS) | 50 | £2,500 |
Admin panel | 40 | £2,000 |
Testing & deployment | 30 | £1,500 |
Total | 210 hrs | ~£10,500 |
Now add 10-15% for design and ongoing support. So, a basic version could cost around £12,000 to £15,000.
Want to get a custom estimate? Take the first step with Codestruk today.
Hidden Costs to Be Aware Of
Before you budget, keep these in mind:
App Store fees: Apple charges £79/year, Google £25 one-time.
Third-party APIs: Some services like maps or payment gateways may charge monthly.
Security & Compliance: GDPR compliance, secure databases, etc., can add to the budget.
Being aware of these helps you plan better—and avoid nasty surprises later.
Why Work with Codestruk?
Choosing the right development partner is half the battle. At Codestruk, we:
Listen first, then plan
Break down costs upfront—no surprises
Offer cost-effective, scalable solutions
Help you grow long after launch
We don’t just write code—we build partnerships that last. Whether your app idea is big or small, we’ll bring it to life with clarity, quality, and care.
Final Thoughts
The mobile app development cost UK depends on what you want your app to do and how you want it to grow. But don’t let the numbers scare you. With the right approach—and the right partner—you can get powerful results without overspending.
Now that you know what goes into the cost, are you ready to take the next step?
👉 Let Codestruk help you turn your app idea into reality.