How Much Does It Cost To Build An App In Canada

Do you realize that you’re using an app for almost everything in your daily life?

From managing finances to booking tickets, and staying connected with your loved ones, mobile apps have revolutionized the way we interact with technology and each other.

Mobile apps are powerful tools that have transformed the way we live, work, and connect with the world around us. These versatile software applications offer users a myriad of functionalities and services at their fingertips.

That’s why the demand for innovative and user-friendly apps is constantly rising. According to Statista, the revenue of application development software in Canada is expected to show an annual growth rate of 6.29%, resulting in a market volume of US$7.23 billion by 2028.

Now if you’re an organization that wants to capture a wide range of audience in the smartphone world then you need to turn your head to an Android or iOS app development company.

These two platforms are superdominant in the mobile app arena with Apple’s App Store reaching $86.8 billion on consumer spending and Android’s Google Play Store generating $42.3 billion from apps in 2022.

So one thing is for sure, and it’s that if you’re developing a mobile app to enhance your business operations then it’s the best decision you can take right now.

However, let’s answer the burning question first. How much does it cost to build an app in Canada? Well, it certainly isn’t cheap.

But does that mean it’ll put a hole in your pocket? Not necessarily. That’s because mobile applications can be developed on many scales.

For instance, if you’re an organization that only requires a simple app with no complex features or functionalities then it will cost you lesser than an enterprise-level app with intricate features.

With that in mind, let’s get into more detail in the next section to learn the cost of apps that are developed on different scales.

How Much Does It Cost to Build an App in Canada 

The cost of developing a mobile app can range from CAD8,000 to CAD2,00,000. But it really depends on the complexity of the app you’re building.

Here are the average costs for the development of mobile apps according to different levels:

Formula of the Cost to Build an App in Canada

Here is the universal formula to calculate the cost of building an app in Canada:

Final Mobile App Cost Estimate = Hourly Rates x Development Time Invested

Hourly Rates

The hourly rate charged by your app development team determines the cost of your project. These rates vary based on the expertise and location of the team.

If you have an offshore team then you might gain some advantages in costs. However, highly skilled professionals might charge higher rates.

The key to maximizing the value of your app development is to strike a balance between expertise and budget.

Development Time Invested

The overall cost of developing your app is directly tied to the number of development hours invested.

The final estimate of your mobile app development cost relies on the duration of your project.

The average hourly rates in Canada from which you can design an estimate for your mobile app development cost can range from CAD25 – CAD180.

Cost to Build An App in Canada for Each Phase

Building a successful mobile application involves various stages and each stage contributes to the overall development process.

Here are the details about the cost of building an app in Canada for each phase:

1) Requirement Gathering

Cost: CAD2,000 – CAD10,000

Duration: 3 – 4 weeks

It is necessary to have a rock-solid plan before diving into app development.

Requirement gathering consists of in-depth research and analysis which is a crucial phase that lays the foundation for your app’s success.

It offers valuable insights about the market, target audience, and competitors. This helps you understand the need of users, pain points, and any preferences that allow you to tailor the app according to the user’s desire.

Moreover, it also allows you to optimize your budget through data-driven decisions. With research and analysis, you’ll be able to make informed decisions about the features and functionalities to include.

This ensures that you allocate your budget wisely by focusing on elements that truly add value to your app.

2) UI/UX Designing

Cost: CAD6,000 – CAD20,000

Duration:15 – 20 weeks

UI/UX Designing is the process of creating a visually appealing and engaging interface for a mobile application.

UI focuses on the presentation of the app which ensures to capture the attention of users with its design elements.

UX (User Experience) Design emphasizes understanding user behavior which aims to provide a delightful experience during every interaction with the app.

3) Development

Cost: CAD28,000 – ongoing

Duration: Depends on app complexity

This is the stage where the backend and front end are built. It encompasses the entire process of transforming a conceptual idea or vision into a fully functional mobile application.

In this stage, developers write, test, and optimize the code that powers the app’s features and functionalities.

They work closely with the UI/UX designers to ensure that the user interface is seamlessly integrated into the application.

4) Testing

Cost: CAD6,000 – CAD20,000

Duration: 3 – 4 weeks

The testing phase evaluates the functionality, performance, and user experience through rigorous examination of the mobile app.

The developers and quality assurance experts meticulously assess the app’s features, functionalities, and overall behavior across various devices and platforms.

The main objective of this phase is to identify and rectify any potential bugs, glitches, or inconsistencies that could compromise the app’s performance or user satisfaction.

The key aspects of the testing phase include Functional Testing, Compatibility Testing, Performance Testing, Security Testing, Usability Testing, and Regression Testing.

5) Maintenance

Cost: CAD2,000 – CAD5,000 per month

Duration: Continued

The maintenance phase is the ongoing process of ensuring the continued optimal performance with high security and smooth functionality post-launch.

Once the app is deployed and available to users, the maintenance phase kicks in to enhance its performance throughout its lifecycle.

The app maintenance cost can range from CAD2,000 – CAD5,000 per month and it is a never-ending process. That’s simply because you need to oil your product from time to time so it can run in an efficient manner.

The key aspects of the maintenance phase are Bug Fixing, Upgrades, Security Patches, Compatibility with New Devices and OS Versions, Server Maintenance, and Backup and Data Management.

Cost of App Development by Type in Canada

Here is the app development cost for different types of apps:

Cost to Build an App in Canada by Business Categories

Here are the costs for app development in Canada by business categories:

1) Basic App

Cost: CAD5,000 – ongoing

Time: 4 – 6 weeks

Sample projects: SMS apps, Camera, Calculator, Local Audio/Video Players, Local Games

Basic apps typically comprise five to six app screens and straightforward functionalities. Also, they may not require a network connection to operate seamlessly.

The development involves creating an app with minimal complexity which is suitable for achieving specific objectives without incorporating intricate features.

These apps are commonly used to represent a small business or to showcase basic information.

2) Data-Based App

Cost: CAD15,000 – ongoing

Time: 4 – 6 weeks

Sample projects: Weather app, Calender app, Maps

Data-based applications rely heavily on data processing and back-end development. These apps are built around a specific domain and often integrate third-party APIs to provide users with accurate and up-to-date information.

The data-based apps require significant back-end development work to handle data processing, storage, and API integrations. This is the reason data-based app development costs are higher compared to more superficial apps.

3) Authentication Apps

Cost: CAD50,000 – ongoing

Time: 3 – 5 months

Sample projects: Google Drive

Authentication apps require essential features to ensure secure access to app information.

Some of the features include user account creation and login, data synchronization and encryption, and an admin panel for user management.

This adds complexity to the app development process which contributes to higher development costs.

The integration of social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram can be incorporated to streamline the login or signup process.

It improves user convenience and reduces the need for users to manually input their details.

4) Social Media Apps

Cost: CAD50,000 – CAD240,000

Time: 5 – 9 months

Sample projects: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

The cost of social media apps is higher due to the expenses involved in creating dynamic and engaging apps that facilitate social user engagement, discussions, information sharing, and media file exchange.

These apps allow users to interact, share posts or media files, and send or receive photos/videos and other form of media.

Social media apps require robust back-end architecture capable of handling large amounts of user-generated data including posts and media.

These aspects of the apps add complexity to the overall structure of your mobile application which contribute to the overall cost.

5) eCommerce Apps

Cost: CAD50,000 to CAD240,000

Time: 6 – 9 months or more for an ongoing project

Sample projects: Alibaba, eBay, Amazon

eCommerce apps require creating feature-rich applications tailored for online shopping and commercial transactions.

It includes a wide array of features to facilitate seamless online shopping experiences.

Some of them are user registration and account management, comprehensive product catalogs, a checkout system and payment integration, and an admin panel for management.

Moreover, eCommerce app development can be complex due to the need for extensive back-end support to handle various functionalities and secure online transactions.

Also, to foster customer trust, eCommerce apps need hassle-free payment transactions by integration of a reliable payment processing system.

6) On-Demand Apps

Cost: CAD70,000 to CAD80,000 or more

Time: 5 – 7 months or more

Sample projects: Uber, Nimber, Uber Eats

On-demand apps are built to fulfill users’ immediate needs and requests in real time. They offer convenience and efficiency which connect users with specific services or products.

Some of the features of on-demand apps include real-time services, user interaction features, in-app ordering and payment, distinct user apps, and cross-platform compatibility.

7) Marketplace Apps

Cost: CAD240,000 or more

Time: 9 months or more

Sample projects: Booking.com

Marketplace apps are the platforms that connect sellers or service providers to buyers. On top of that, these apps also provide transactions and interactions within the app.

Market apps combine the features of eCommerce and on-demand apps which provide a diverse range of services in one centralized platform.

Some of the key characteristics of marketplace apps include B2C and B2B transactions, demand and supply, and pre-development stage complexity.

Building a marketplace app may require a higher initial investment due to its complexity.

However, it can be a profitable venture as marketplace apps can generate revenue through transaction fees or commissions from sellers.

One of the best examples of a marketplace app is TripAdvisor which covers multiple services such as hotels, restaurants, and airline tickets. It serves as a one-stop platform for users’ travel needs.

8) IoT & Hardware Apps

Cost: CAD50,000 or more

Time: 3 – 5 months

Sample projects: Amazon Dash Buttons

IoT and Hardware apps interconnect specific hardware products or equipment with technology.

These apps can create “smart” physical objects that enhance productivity and improve daily living.

Some of the key characteristics of IoT and Hardware apps include connectivity options, detailed documentation, smart devices, and more.

Developing IoT & Hardware Apps can require higher investment due to the complexities of integrating hardware with software.

They typically require custom development to work optimally with specific hardware devices.

Moreover, the app for your hardware must be designed to be compatible with iOS and Android platforms to ensure a wider user reach.

Examples of App Development Costs

Here are some of the best examples of app development costs:

1) Uber

Uber is a successful ride-hailing app that revolutionized the transportation industry. The app connects passengers and drivers and it has 3 applications.

Two mobile applications – one for passengers and another for drivers – and a web application as the admin panel.

The cost of creating such an app can begin at CAD10,000, and the development process may take approximately 50 days.

The app includes features such as payment integration, geolocation, routing with advanced route optimization, SMS and push notifications integration, and more.

2) Tinder

Tinder is one of the most popular dating apps which finds and connects potential matches.

Tinder secured $485,000 in seed funding in 2012, the year it was launched.

Its functionality is quite simple, with a swipe right or left to express liking or disliking a particular person’s profile.

When both users swipe right (expressing mutual interest), the app creates a match from which both users can now communicate with each other.

The cost to develop an app like Tinder can start from CAD20,000, and the development process typically takes about 45 days.

The cost estimation for a dating app like Tinder involves calculating various app features, including authorization, GPS location and settings, user profile management, matching functionality, push notifications, communication features, and third-party integration.

You can approach a top-class mobile app development company in Toronto, Ottawa, or Vancouver to get your app developed.

3) TikTok

TikTok is a popular social media platform that allows users to create and share short-form videos. It was launched in 2016 by a Chinese company named ByteDance.

The app quickly gained widespread popularity, especially among young users.

The cost to develop an app like TikTok in Canada can start from CAD20,000 and it could take about 45 days.

Some of the features of TikTok include video creation and editing, For You Page, live streaming, a music library, and more.

4) Airbnb

Airbnb is an online marketplace and hospitality service platform that allows people to discover and book lodging options worldwide.

The app was launched in 2008 and it has since become one of the leading platforms in the sharing economy.

The cost of an app like Airbnb would start from $25,000 and it can take about 45 days to complete.

Some of the features of Airbnb include accommodation listings, search and discovery, host profiles and reviews, booking and payment, wishlists and saved searches, and more.

5) Ikea

IKEA is a multinational furniture and home furnishings retailer known for its affordable and stylish products.

While the company was founded in 1943 in Sweden, the app launched in 2019. The app was built with the help of Augmented Reality (AR) technology.

The cost of an app like Ikea can start from CAD40,000 and it can take about 45 days to complete.

Some of the Ikea features include a product catalog, search and filter, wishlist, barcode scanner, store locator, easy checkout, and more.

All you need to do is approach an excellent on-demand app development company in Canada to get your Ikea-like app developed.

How Much Does It Cost to Build an iPhone App in Canada from Scratch?

The average cost of building an iPhone app in Canada from scratch can range from CAD25,000 to CAD2,00,000.

Any iOS app development company in Canada with good reviews can build you an app with this price bracket.

However, the cost of developing an iPhone app is influenced by various factors such as the app features, size, functionalities, category, the development team’s size, the overall complexity of the app, the duration of development, and third-party integration.

How Much Does It Cost to Build an Android App in Canada from Scratch?

The average cost of building an Android app in Canada from scratch can range from CAD15,000 to CAD1,00,000.

And just like iOS, the cost of Android apps is too, determined by several factors including complexity, category, type, deployment on the Google Play Store, developers’ hourly rates, the timeline required to develop your Android application, and more.

A top-class Android app development company can build your dream app with intricate features and functionalities.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Cross-Platform App in Canada from Scratch?

The average cost of building a cross-platform app in Canada from scratch can start from CAD20,000 and can go beyond CAD1,00,000.

The main advantage of cross-platform development is that it allows you to create a single codebase that can be used to build apps for multiple platforms (e.g., iOS, Android, and possibly others).

This approach can save time and development costs compared to building separate native apps for each platform.

However, it may not always offer the same level of performance and native experience as native app development.

And just like Android and iOS, the cost of building a cross-platform app is influenced by specific factors.

Some of the factors include code-reusability, the chosen application framework, developers’ hourly rates, UI/UX design, the location of the development team, the complexity of the app, and the size of the app development team.

For an accurate cost estimation, you should approach an app development company that offers cross-platform mobile app development services.

For instance, if you want to build a game app then get the details from a game app development company in Canada with good reviews in the market.

What are the Factors Affecting the Cost to Build an App in Canada?

Building an app is a transformative process but it comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to cost considerations.

The cost of app development can vary significantly depending on several factors. Here are those:

Type of App

The main factor that affects the costs of building an app is the app type. You have to decide whether you want to build native apps for various platforms or a hybrid app.

Native apps are tailor-made for a specific operating system, like Android or iOS. They use programming languages like Java or Swift.

Native apps deliver top-notch performance with direct access to the device’s hardware and software.

It delights the user with a sense of belonging by blending into the platform’s look and feel.

On the other hand, hybrid or cross-platform apps can run on multiple platforms with a single codebase.

They use modern technologies like React Native or Flutter that bring flexibility and cost-effectiveness to the table.

However, keep in mind that while hybrid apps might cost less, native apps are more technologically superior and they offer a better user experience.

Here is a table that differentiates native and hybrid apps:

Platform

It is important to choose which platform you are going to release your app on, as this decision can significantly impact the success and reach of your application.

Both Android and iOS have their strengths. However, understanding your target audience is crucial in making the right choice.

Consider factors such as the demographics of your potential users, the geographical region you wish to target, and the specific features and functionalities of your app when deciding on the platform.

Android typically dominates the global market with its widespread user base but iOS users are known for their higher app engagement and willingness to spend on in-app purchases.

Here is a table that differentiates Android and iOS:

Features

The features of your app determine its essence and value to users. That’s because each feature contributes to the overall user experience.

Whether it’s seamless navigation, secure payment options, social sharing capabilities, or real-time updates, each feature plays a crucial role in building user loyalty.

However, it is important to remember that the choice of features also impacts the cost and timeline of your app development journey.

So you’ll have to decide which features need to be prioritized. This will require a strategic approach in which you’ll focus on the features that align with your app’s objectives and target audience.

Here is a table that describes different features and their hourly cost with development time:

UI/UX Designing

User interface or UI is the first impression of your app. It sets the stage for a captivating user experience. A well-crafted UI/UX design entices users to explore your mobile app.

It guides the user to effortlessly navigate through the app’s features which creates a sense of ease.

On the other hand, if your app has a poorly designed interface, it will to a swift departure of users from the app due to frustration.

Designing an interactive UI takes about 30 – 250+ hours, and the average development cost can be around CAD1,200 – CAD16,000.

Development Team

The size and expertise of your development team is one of the many factors that can affect the app development cost.

It plays a vital role in determining the project’s timeline and efficiency. A larger team can handle multiple tasks simultaneously which potentially speeds up the development process.

However, it is necessary to strike a balance between and ensure that the team size aligns with your app’s complexity and requirements.

So in order to optimize your app development cost, collaborate closely with the development team to understand their capabilities.

Try to ensure they have relevant experience in building apps similar to your vision.

How to Reduce App Development Costs

You can quickly reduce app development costs through cost-effective strategies without compromising on the app’s excellence.

Here are some of the practices for reducing app development costs:

1) Create In-Depth Project Specifications

Creating detailed project specifications is a powerful way to trim app development costs.

The insights about your project’s requirements, functionalities, and design can help you minimize the chances of costly misunderstandings.

Your team would be able to work efficiently with a high focus which will allow you to save both, time and money.

2) Minimize Errors and Rework

Reducing errors and rework during the app development process can significantly impact the final cost.

Ask your development team to conduct parallel testing throughout the app development process.

This will allow them to identify and rectify errors early on which will reduce the likelihood of expensive rework after the app’s completion.

Moreover, it will also ensure that all stakeholders are on the same page which will reduce the risk of misunderstandings and rework.

3) Go for a Hybrid Mobile App

Choosing the hybrid mobile app development approach can be a cost-efficient solution.

You’ll be able to save development time and resources as your app can easily work on multiple platforms like iOS and Android with a single codebase.

The hybrid mobile development approach leverages web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These technologies are quicker and the maintenance is easy too.

How Much Does It Cost to Maintain an App in Canada?

The average cost of app maintenance typically ranges from 15% to 20% of the total app development cost in Canada.

For instance, if your app development cost was around CAD30,000, the app maintenance cost would range from CAD4,500 to CAD6,000 per year.

App maintenance refers to the ongoing process of monitoring, updating, and optimizing a mobile application after its initial development and launch.

It involves activities that aim to ensure your app is functioning smoothly and securely.

Here are some of the factors that can impact the app maintenance cost:

• The features that you want to upgrade
• Upgrading the technology used in your mobile application
• The terms and conditions of the maintenance agreement you establish
• The variety of platform versions to support, including Android, iOS, or hybrid
• Enhancing the quality of your app’s code for better performance and maintainability
• Integrating or updating third-party dependencies to keep the app up-to-date with the latest services and tools

What are the Hidden App Development Costs?

Here are some of the additional costs that can come to you as a surprise:

• Fees associated with third-party integrations such as payment gateways, SMS or push notifications, geolocation services, and more.
• Infrastructure costs like payments for server hosting, Content Delivery Network (CDN) services, and more.
• Support charges or additional costs for updating an application, resolving bugs, and implementing future improvements.
• Administrative or management costs, such as the salary for a content manager.

Suppose the total app development cost for your project was CAD90,000, then;

• The hidden costs for your app development can range from CAD6,000 – CAD25,000 per year
• Similarly, the maintenance cost of your app according to 20% of the whole project cost can be around CAD18,000.
• Furthermore, the marketing cost of your mobile app can cost 50% – 100% of the original development cost, which can range from CAD45,000 – CAD90,000.

What are the Post-Release Expenses of an App?

Now that you know all the details on the cost of building and marketing an app, let’s dive into the post-release expenses:

Maintenance Cost

As explained earlier, the maintenance cost can be 15% – 20% of the total app development cost. It involves updates, bug fixes, and improvements to keep your app running smoothly.

Regular maintenance of your app ensures optimal performance, security, and a seamless user experience.

The maintenance budget is essential to address any issues promptly and provide ongoing support to your app users.

App Monitoring

Monitoring your app’s performance and user behavior is crucial for understanding how users interact with your app.

App monitoring tools can help you gather valuable data on app usage. You’ll be able to know the crashes in your app and the engagement of users.

It allows you to gather valuable data on app usage and improve user experience.

Moreover, you’ll be able to make data-driven decisions to enhance your app’s performance and features with app monitoring.

Updating Your App

You may plan to introduce new features or enhancements as your app gains popularity and feedback from users.

It is essential that you budget for the upgrades that your app will need in the future. This will ensure your app stays competitive and meets evolving user needs.

License

Certain third-party libraries and services require licenses that are subject to renewal fees.

So in order to avoid any legal issues or disruptions to your app’s functionality, it is essential that your app complies with all licensing agreements.

What is the Cost and Timeline for App Development in Different Locations?

The cost to develop an app can differ depending on the region you’re currently living in. Here are the details on the cost and timeline for app development in different locations:

App Development Costs Unveiled: From Planning to Maintenance

Now that we’ve explored the intricate world of app development costs, it’s time to set your sights on making your app a reality.

From basic apps to enterprise-level solutions, there’s a spectrum of possibilities awaiting your ideas.

Whether you’re catering to a specific niche or aiming for mass appeal, the versatility of app development allows you to tailor your project according to your budget and goals.

Remember, the cost to build an app is an investment in your business’s success. By collaborating with a talented development team and strategic planning, you can create an app that captivates users, meets their needs, and generates substantial returns.