Flutter App Development Cost: A Detailed Guide [2024]

Flutter has evolved as a requirement in today’s app market because of its useful features, such as hot reload, a unique render engine, and others.

Because of such developer-friendly characteristics, 46% of mobile application developers picked Flutter for app development by 2022.

Even several prominent organizations, including Alibaba and BMW, are using the Flutter framework for app development. This substantial demand aids us in estimating the possible costs associated with app development. 

To make a long tale short, the costs of designing a Flutter app can range from $40,000 to $1,20,000 and above.

But what are these exact figures? How should the budget be estimated? What factors determine the cost of developing a Flutter app?

Here, I’ll estimate Flutter app development cost, and provide key advice to reduce your Flutter app development cost.

So, keep reading to find out how much Flutter app development costs!

What is Flutter?

Flutter, developed by Google and released in May 2017, is an open-source software development kit that has significantly transformed the world of mobile applications. 

It uses a single codebase to develop high-quality native interfaces for Android and iOS platforms, reducing development time and offering cost-effective solutions. 

Flutter has taken over the app development community. This structure has several advantages. Let’s take a look at a couple of them.

• Rapid advancement
• Outstanding performance
• Gamer-friendly custom UI
• High productivity

Have questions about the upcoming developments in Flutter? Explore the answers in our latest blog on the Future of Flutter!

What is a Flutter App?

A Flutter app is a mobile app developed using the Flutter UI toolkit by Google. It allows developers to create high-performance and native-looking apps for Android, iOS, and the web using a single codebase. 

The rise of Flutter apps nowadays can be credited to their unique combination of development efficiency, aesthetic brilliance, and operational effectiveness, making them a game-changer in the mobile app development landscape. 

Let’s see a graph that illustrates how many software developers prefer using Flutter:

Why Should You Consider Flutter for Developing Your App?

Flutter is a versatile and robust framework with various compelling reasons for considering it for developing your app’s needs. 

These are a few primary benefits that set Flutter apart:

• Cross-Platform Development: Flutter streamlines development by enabling a single codebase for Android, iOS, and web platforms, eliminating the need for separate teams and reducing time and costs.
• Native Performance: Flutter ensures near-native performance on all platforms with its Skia rendering engine, delivering smooth animations and responsive UIs.
• Hot Reloading: Flutter’s hot reloading accelerates development by instantly reflecting code changes in the app, reducing build cycles.
• Rich Libraries and Tools: Flutter offers pre-built widgets, third-party libraries, and integrated IDEs, enhancing productivity and ease of use.
• Efficient Development: Flutter’s declarative programming and state management systems facilitate code writing and maintenance for an efficient development process.
• Internationalization and Accessibility: Flutter supports internationalization and accessibility, creating apps for a global audience while complying with standards.
• Growing Community and Ecosystem: Flutter boasts a thriving community, providing ample support, resources, and tutorials for developers, making it an attractive choice for app development.

The Average Cost of Flutter App Development

The cost of developing a Flutter app can vary between $40,000 to $1,20,000, depending on the project’s magnitude.

The following table summarizes average expenses and development timeframes for Flutter apps:

The following are the average prices based on app type:

• Expect to pay $40,000 to $65,000 for a basic fitness app with basic functionalities.
• A mid-sized app with superior functions, such as phone conversations, is expected to cost between $60,000 and $90,000.
• A major program with extensive features, such as a social media platform, will cost between $75,000 and $1,20,000.

How to Calculate Flutter App Development Expenses

The cost of Flutter app development is significantly influenced by its features. Flutter is an optimal choice when native functionality is not a project requirement. 

For integrating features like Maps, streaming, augmented reality, and background processes, separate builds are necessary for iOS and Android.

Here’s a breakdown of two crucial steps to calculate the cost of Flutter app development:

1. Analyze

Proper planning in the Analyze phase is vital to prevent project collapse. This step establishes the project’s vision, identifies potential risks, and outlines the business goals and scope. 

Through this, you gain insights into the cost of developing a Flutter app.

2. Estimation

Estimation involves collaboration between the client and the software development team, providing a rough idea of the duration and cost of apps built with the Flutter framework. 

This estimate encompasses all stages of the development process, offering a comprehensive overview of the required investment.

These steps ensure a thorough understanding of project needs, risks, and goals, laying the foundation for an accurate and transparent calculation of Flutter app development costs.

7 Key Factors Influencing the Flutter App Development Cost

While one of Flutter’s key advantages is its inexpensive development cost, several other things must be addressed. Many factors determine the cost of producing a Flutter project.

The following are the major aspects that determine the total expense of a Flutter application development project:

1. Complexity of the App

The app’s complexity directly impacts the cost of Flutter app development. A straightforward app with limited features incurs lower costs than a complex one with extensive functionalities.

For instance, creating a weather app displaying forecasts may range from $15,000 to $20,000. 

In contrast, a social media app incorporating messaging, user profiles, and image sharing might exceed $100,000.

The app’s complexity also influences development time. A simple app can be completed in a few months, while a complex one may require a year or more. 

Longer development times correlate with higher Flutter app development costs.

2. Size of the App

The app size pertains to the volume of data, information, and the number of features it encompasses. 

The development cost of a complex Flutter app surpasses that of a simpler counterpart, with smaller apps demanding fewer development resources.

Several factors contribute to app size and development costs:

• Screens and Features: Cost increases with additional features and screens.
• RAM Usage: The amount of random access memory (RAM) consumed by the app during operation.
• Binary Size: The size of the compiled binary file installed on the device.
• Package Size: The size of the app package file downloaded from an app store.
• Disk Usage: The storage space occupied by the app and its data on the device’s disk.
• Lines of Code (LOC): The measure of a software program’s size, representing the total number of lines in its source code.

While not an absolute rule, Lines of Code (LOC) serve as a useful metric for assessing program size and, by extension, app complexity and development costs.

3. App Categories

The following is an overview of Flutter App Development Cost by Category:

App Category	Flutter App Development Time	Flutter App Development Cost
Gaming Apps	5-20 months	$50,000-$300,000
Entertainment Apps	4-25 months	$35,000-$150,000
Travel Apps	4-10 months	$8,000-$90,000
Augmented Reality Apps	5-25 months	$150,000-$350,000
Communication Apps	8-15 months	$25,000-$60,000
Tool Apps	3-8 months	$6,000-$12,000
Productivity Apps	4-9 months	$8,000-$15,000
Social Media Apps	4-12 months	$25,000-$60,000

4. Type of the Development Team

Flutter app development costs can vary based on the type of team handling the project. Consider the breakdown below:

In-House Team

An in-house team refers to a group of professionals employed directly by a company and working within its physical premises. 

These individuals are integrated into the organization and handle tasks related to the company’s core functions, such as app development.

Pros

• In-house teams offer adaptability to changing project needs.
• With consistent team members, there’s a higher likelihood of reusing components and codes.
• Direct interactions facilitate easy collaboration and effective communication.
• In-house teams provide control over project management to meet set deadlines.

Cons

• In-house teams may face increased responsibilities and workloads.
• Finding and retaining top talents can be challenging.
• A lack of specific expertise may lead to lower-quality products.
• Costs include equipment, office space, legal/admin charges, salaries, benefits, training, certification, tools, software, and resources.

Cost Range: $50,000 – $180,000, depending on team expertise, salaries, and additional costs.

Outsourcing Team

Outsourcing involves contracting external individuals or companies, often specialists in a particular field, to handle specific tasks or projects. 

The outsourced team operates independently from the client’s company, working remotely or from their own premises.

Pros

• Outsourcing ensures prompt meeting of project deadlines.
• Outsourced teams offer scalability to adapt to project requirements.
• External teams often excel in efficient project management.
• Outsourcing provides access to specialized talents and experts.
• It allows the client to focus on other key aspects of their business.
• Outsourcing can be more cost-effective, as certain expenses are handled by the external team.

Cons

• Limited control if there is unclear communication on project requirements and deadlines.
• Remote working may pose challenges for effective collaboration and communication.

In-house offers control but may be costlier, while outsourcing provides efficiency and cost-effectiveness but requires clear communication. Evaluate your priorities and project requirements before making a decision.

5. Developers’ Locations and Hourly Rates

The geographical location of developers has a big impact on the cost. Developers in North America, for example, typically charge greater fees than those in Eastern Europe or Asia. 

The cost structure you choose, whether fixed cost, time and stuff, or a dedicated team, will also have an impact on the final cost.

The hourly rates of developers are listed and compared in the graph below:

6. UI/UX Design

The pricing of Flutter application development services is then determined by the UI/UX design. Designers must enhance the wireframes created during the release stage with extra information or screens. 

Despite this, they continue to create mockups.

Using wireframes, you may study the client flow and see if there are potential enhancements. Mockups’ primary goal is to display the entire visual design.

7. Backend Development

Backend development is the foundation of a Flutter app, offering essential functions such as data backup, real-time chatbot capabilities, and mobile app security. 

It facilitates the integration of various features directly impacting the overall cost of the Flutter app:

• A database is used to store user information
• To manage varied client requests and other duties
• For the administration of security codes and data encryption
• Assisting with data archiving

A well-structured backend is vital for the functionality and security of the Flutter app, with each aspect contributing to the overall development cost.

8. Post-Release Support

Creating an application for mobile devices is a marathon, not a sprint. It should come as no surprise that an already prepared app necessitates investment even after its debut. 

Regular bug repairs, fresh version revisions, and design enhancements are just the tip of the iceberg regarding potential future requirements. 

Note that your Flutter application is a living creature that requires proper maintenance to remain current and give a wonderful user experience. 

Additional Constituents to Consider in Flutter App Development

As previously said, maintaining your app’s market success necessitates constant maintenance and upgrades. 

Let’s look at the related expenses and four aspects that add to the total expense of producing a Flutter app.

1. App Maintenance and Updates

A high-performing app necessitates continuous upgrades and the introduction of new features. Sustaining user engagement and preventing stagnation requires regular attention. 

While original development teams are ideal for maintenance, detailed documentation can facilitate the process for new developers. 

Investing in post-release support services, covering feature development, testing, and bug fixes, is crucial for a thriving and secure app.

2.  Third-Party API Integrations

The functionality of complex apps often relies on seamless data exchange through third-party API integrations. 

While initial integration may involve cost-effective APIs, increased usage may require upgrading to more sophisticated options. 

The extent of these integrations can significantly impact the overall cost of developing a Flutter app.

3. App Store Release

The finished software creation requires a publishing platform, and there are two big players: Google Play and the App Store. 

Despite the fact that these platforms demand a fee for app release:

• One-time charge of $25 for the Play Store
• Annual app store fees are $99

Google Play and the App Store collect 15% for a 12-month subscription.

4. Server Space

If your Flutter app will keep user-generated data, you must first address server concerns. The slow servers primarily cause the app’s poor performance and long user response times. 

Untrustworthy servers may result in susceptible system security, resulting in private information leaks for users.

To overcome this, employing a cloud host 24/7 with 32GB RAM requires roughly $1600 per year. It must be remembered that if the appropriate precautions are not performed, it directly impacts the user’s bounce rate.

Flutter App Maintenance and Ongoing Costs

Sustaining the functionality of a Flutter app necessitates ongoing maintenance and updates. 

In the dynamic landscape of evolving technology and changing user preferences, regular updates become essential to address various aspects:

• Bug Fixing and Performance Improvement: Regular updates address bugs, enhancing the overall performance of the app.
• Incorporating New Features: Ongoing updates facilitate adding new features, ensuring the app remains relevant and competitive.
• Enhancing Security: Regular updates contribute to improved security, safeguarding user data and protecting the app from potential threats.
• Platform Guidelines Compliance: Continuous maintenance ensures the app aligns with platform guidelines, minimizing the risk of removal from app stores.

The maintenance cost for a Flutter app typically ranges from $2000 to $5000 per month. 

It’s advisable to allocate approximately 20% of the initial development cost for ongoing software maintenance.

How Does Flutter Deliver Maximum Value for Mobile App Development?

Flutter offers a cost-effective solution for creating, iterating, and maintaining high-quality mobile apps on major platforms. 

The pricing depends on app complexity and specific requirements, but Flutter consistently provides significant savings compared to traditional native development.

Apps exceeding $400,000 in native development can be built for half the cost using Flutter. 

Efficiently managing budgets involves optimizing requirements, design, technical architecture, and team collaboration.

Flutter streamlines development efforts, offering an exceptional user experience and maximum value for organizations creating consumer-facing mobile apps. It stands out as the clear choice in 2024.

How Can You Reduce and Optimize Your Flutter App Development Budget?

Flutter app development can be costly, especially if you are not careful about your budget.

Here are some effective strategies to reduce and optimize your Flutter app development expenses:

1. Opt for Outsourcing

One of the best ways to reduce Flutter app development costs is to outsource your project to an offshore development team. 

Offshore teams can offer significantly lower rates than in-house developers, and they often have the same level of expertise. 

However, it is important to carefully vet your offshore team to ensure they have the experience and skills required for your project.

2. Reduce Unnecessary Functionality

The more features and functionalities you add to your app, the more expensive it will be to develop. 

It is important to prioritize the essential features of your app and only add additional features if they are crucial. 

Consider adding features in phases, releasing a basic app version first and adding new features in subsequent updates.

3. Adopt Agile Development

Agile development is a software development methodology that emphasizes iterative development and continuous feedback. This approach can help you reduce Flutter app development costs by allowing you to review and adapt your project plan. 

You can also use Agile development to identify and eliminate unnecessary features early in development.

Following these tips can reduce Flutter app development costs and optimize your budget. 

Remember that the key to reducing Flutter app development costs is planning carefully, prioritizing the most important, and working with experienced developers like Core Devs. 

Types of Apps You Can Build with Flutter

Flutter’s versatility extends to a wide range of app categories, making it a suitable choice for businesses and individuals seeking to develop mobile applications for various purposes. 

Here’s an overview of the diverse types of apps you can build using Flutter:

1. E-commerce Apps

Flutter’s ability to create native-looking and performant apps makes it ideal for developing e-commerce platforms. It can handle the complexities of displaying product catalogs, managing shopping carts, and integrating payment gateways. 

Examples of Flutter e-commerce apps include Postmuse, Depop, and Flutterwave.

2. Social Media Apps

Flutter’s lightweight and performant architecture allows for building engaging social media apps. It handles real-time messaging, user profiles, and social media feeds effectively. 

Examples of Flutter social media apps include Reflectly, Verve, and KlusterMe.

3. On-Demand Applications

Flutter’s ability to handle real-time data, user requests, and seamless integration with backend systems makes it ideal for developing various on-demand applications. 

Here are some examples:

• Ride-hailing Apps: Uber, Lyft, and Ola.
• Food Delivery Apps: DoorDash, Grubhub, and Just Eat.
• E-commerce Marketplaces: Amazon, Alibaba, and Flipkart.

4. Business Productivity Solutions

Flutter’s cross-platform capabilities are valuable for crafting business productivity apps, including project management tools, CRM systems, and communication platforms. 

Its extensive widget library empowers the creation of interactive dashboards, task trackers, and collaborative workspaces.

Examples include HubSpot, Zoho CRM, Asana, Office 365, Articulate 360, etc.

How Core Devs Can Help You with Flutter App Development in 2024

Mobile apps are the foundation for organizations looking to interact with their target audience in today’s digital ecosystem. The unprecedented 3.8 billion smartphone users worldwide increase the competition to create compelling and functional apps. 

If you’re considering creating a Flutter-like app, Core Devs is the ideal partner, delivering a broad selection of services tailored to your requirements. 

Here are some ways Core Devs can help you on your Flutter-like app development journey:

Flutter-Oriented Native App Development

With expertise in both Flutter and traditional native app technologies such as Java, Kotlin, Swift, and Objective-C, Core Devs ensures your app performs seamlessly on both Android and iOS. 

Our specialized developers know how to harness Flutter’s rich widget library alongside native features to deliver a highly dynamic and responsive user experience.

Modular Cross-Platform Development

Leveraging the power of Flutter and other cross-platform frameworks like React Native, Core Devs adopts a modular approach to codebase development. 

By identifying platform-specific needs and functionalities, we ensure your users have a uniform yet tailored experience, regardless of their operating system. 

This hybrid approach leads to quicker development cycles and cost efficiency without compromising quality.

Intuitive UI/UX Design & User Behavior Analytics

Our design philosophy extends beyond aesthetics, crafting interactive narratives informed by user behavior analytics and leveraging Flutter’s design capabilities. 

We study heatmaps, user flows, and implement A/B testing to iterate and continually refine your app’s interface. 

This results in an intuitive, engaging, and visually striking user experience.

Robust Backend & API Development for Flutter Apps

We employ top-tier backend technologies like Node.js, Ruby on Rails, and Python Django to ensure that your Flutter app’s backend can withstand high levels of traffic and complexity. 

Our API integration is streamlined for ease of extension and security, designed specifically to work seamlessly with Flutter-based applications.

Comprehensive Quality Assurance & Flutter-Specific Testing

Quality assurance at Core Devs is a proactive process, involving defining acceptance criteria, implementing manual and automated testing strategies, and ensuring your app performs at its best under all conditions. 

Our test suite is continually updated to address emerging security threats and ensure compliance with the latest industry standards.

Agile Mobile App Maintenance & Support

Core Devs goes beyond app deployment, providing a complete maintenance package tailored for Flutter-like apps. This includes new features, performance tuning, A/B testing, and regular security audits. 

Our data-driven methodology allows us to make educated decisions on enhancements, ensuring your app stays ahead of the competition and is compatible with the latest operating system updates.

Our 360-degree approach to Flutter-like app development ensures that each phase is executed with meticulous attention to detail and specialized expertise. 

Make Core Devs your go-to choice for a transformative mobile app development experience.

Ending Thoughts

Choosing the proper Flutter app development cost for a project can be difficult. However, it is an essential stage in ensuring the achievement of your project.

Several factors highlighted in the article can affect the cost of developing a Flutter app. So, before calling a flutter app development company for assistance, you should plan your idea. 

Because each idea necessitates a distinct schedule, the procedure will be considerably simpler when you understand what you want.

You may guarantee that the venture is completed within budget through careful review. This will provide you with the best potential return on your investment.

Frequently Asked Questions about Flutter App Development Cost

1. What is the typical duration for developing a Flutter app?

Development timelines vary based on project complexity. A simple Flutter project may take around 2 months, a medium-sized project approximately 4 months, and a complex app might require 4-6 months for production, considering thorough testing and refinement.

2. How can I save money on Flutter app development?

There are a few ways to save money on Flutter app development:

• Define Your Requirements Clearly: Having a clear understanding of your app’s requirements will help to avoid scope creep and unnecessary expenses.
• Choose a Suitable Development Team: Consider working with a team that has experience in Flutter development and a proven track record of successful projects.
• Set Realistic Project Timelines: Allow enough time for development, testing, and deployment to avoid rushing the project and compromising quality.
• Outsource Non-core Tasks: Consider outsourcing non-core tasks, such as marketing or user support, to save on costs.

3. How is the complexity of a Flutter app project determined?

Project complexity is typically classified as “low,” “medium,” or “high” based on the number and intricacy of features. 

Simple projects may have basic functionalities, while complex ones involve intricate features like payment gateways, AI components, or complex databases, impacting development time and costs.

4. What are the ongoing costs of maintaining a Flutter app?

The ongoing costs of maintaining a Flutter app can include:

• Deployment and Hosting: This includes the cost of deploying the app to app stores and hosting the app on a server.
• Updates and Maintenance: This includes the cost of making bug fixes and security updates to the app.
• Support: This includes the cost of providing customer support and answering user inquiries.