How Much Does E commerce App Development Cost?

E commerce app is a prominent development that is becoming progressively popular in today’s age of instant gratification. In the 21st century, e commerce applications are the ones that reign supreme which are your trusted shopping companion. The importance of mobile ecommerce apps lies in their ability to reach the ever-growing number of smartphone users on a global scale. These apps have become an integral part of every firm that wants to improve their digital sales and provide a smooth shopping experience to their customers.

However, if you are a newborn entrepreneur with an idea for an ecommerce app, then a central question arises, i.e., what is the cost to develop an app in India? Let’s delve into the realm of the most crucial aspect of e-commerce app development, i.e., ‘its cost.’

What is an E Commerce Application?

The application of e-commerce is quickly replacing the traditional ecommerce websites that were introduced as a revolution brought up by the advancements in technology. When talking in terms of a layman, an e-commerce application is a software development program that is prominently designed to run on mobile and tablet devices.

It carries the same functionalities as carried by the websites but in a more user-friendly and efficient manner. Everyone’s crucial requirement in an app is “ease of use” which is available in these applications. Apart from this, there are some other reasons as well why people opt for multi-vendor e-commerce apps and not for websites such as mobile-first interface, secure checkout, instant access, quick loading, and several others.

Objectives of Ecommerce App

The primary goal of an e-commerce mobile application is to provide users with an easy, simple, and convenient shopping experience. With these apps, customers will be able to explore products by searching for them, adding these products to their shopping carts, paying safely, and monitoring their orders seamlessly.

In addition to this, the apps should include some of the major functionalities such as quick access to customer assistance, reviews, ratings, and customized suggestions. However, the main purpose and intent of these e-commerce applications is to increase client involvement, loyalty, and contentment because it will result in more sales and income for e-commerce companies.

Also Read:- Top 8 Benefits of Mobile Apps for Business.

Factors Affecting the Cost of E commerce Application Development

Ecommerce application development has become prevalent for multiple businesses to reach customers and boost revenue. Nevertheless, the e commerce app cost for an iOS or Android platform can differ based on multiple factors.

Let’s explore and understand these factors that affect the ecommerce application development cost of these e-commerce mobile apps.

1. App Design

The Android and iOS app design of a mobile app for ecommerce can affect the cost of development. A well-designed and perfectly developed mobile app attracts multiple customers and boosts the cost of development.

The cost of designing an app for ecommerce can differ based on the complexity of the design, the design elements, and the number of screens.

2. App Development Platform

The development platform is prominently used to build an e commerce app and it is another factor that influences the development cost. The most common platforms that are used for e-commerce app development are Android and iOS app development.

But, if you want to develop an app for both platforms, then it can increase the e commerce app cost. Nevertheless, selecting a cross-platform development tool such as React Native or Flutter can relieve the cost of development.

3. App Functionality

The functionality of an ecommerce app can affect the cost of development. The more e commerce app features and functionalities you want to add to your app require more time and effort.

There are some of the most essential features that can elevate the cost of ecommerce application development such as catalogue, payment gateway integration, shopping cart, push notifications, social media integration, and user profile management.

Also Read:- Find Out How Long Does It Take to Make an App.

4. Integration with Payment Gateway

One of the most important components of an e-commerce app is the payment gateway integration, i.e., PGI. Incorporating a payment gateway into an ecommerce app can be complicated and time-consuming, and it can elevate the development cost.

The cost of payment gateway integration can differ based on the payment gateway provider and the class of customization needed.

5. App Maintenance

Maintaining an ecommerce app is important for achieving long-term success. The cost of maintaining an app differs based on the complexity of the app, the level of support required, and the number of updates needed. The maintenance cost of an app should need to be considered at the time of development in order to ensure the app remains up-to-date and functional.

Cost Breakdown for Mobile Ecommerce App Development

Let’s now focus on the breakdown of the different costs associated with developing mobile e-commerce apps. This breakdown has been explained below.

1. Cost to Design an App

The app design cost generally includes the fees of a UI/UX designer for creating user interface designs, wireframes, and overall user experience design for your e-commerce applications. The cost of designing an ecommerce application differs depending on the complexity of the application and the level of expertise of the UI/UX designers.

However, the cost to design an iOS application will be around $1,500 - $15,000+ whereas an Android e commerce app will cost around $1,000 - $10,000+.

2. Cost to Develop an App

The e-commerce app development cost completely depends upon the framework and technology used to create a functional and operating mobile application. Apart from this, it also depends on the e commerce app features and functionalities required for the application, as well as the level of expertise of the app developers.

However, the cost to design an iOS application will be around $20,000 - $100,000+ whereas an Android application will cost around $15,000 - $70,000+.

3. Cost for Payment Gateway Integration

Payment gateway integration cost generally comprises the fees that are charged by the payment gateway providers in order to incorporate their payment gateway provider with your e commerce app. The cost of the application differs depending on the payment gateway providers and the level of integration needed.

However, the cost to design an iOS application will be around $1,500 - $10,000+ whereas an Android e commerce app will cost around $1,000 - $5,000+

4. Cost for Maintenance and Upgrades

The cost for maintenance and upgrade incorporates the fees for ongoing maintenance, software platform updates, and bug fixes to keep your app for ecommerce running seamlessly. The cost of the maintenance of the app differs depending on the complexity of the application and the amount of upgrades needed.

However, the cost to design an iOS application will be around $2,500 - $15,000+ annually whereas an Android application will cost around $2,500 - $15,000+ annually.

5. Cost for Marketing and Promotion

Promotion and digital marketing costs comprise the fees that have been charged for promoting your e commerce application to potential consumers with the help of various marketing channels. These marketing channels include search engines, social media, and mobile app stores. The price of the marketing and promotion of the application differs depending on the marketing strategy and the level of competition in the market of your niche.

However, the cost to design an iOS application and an Android e commerce app differs by marketing strategy.

Also Read:- Digital Marketing for E-commerce: Strategies to Drive Growth.

Analysing the Cost of Developing E Commerce App

E-commerce apps are increasingly popular and if you have an idea to develop the app for this, then analysing the cost becomes an important aspect of the development process.

Let’s now move forward and analyze the cost of ecommerce app development in a broader way.

1. Cost Range for Basic E-commerce Mobile App

Simple e-commerce mobile app generally has product listing, checkout, and payment gateway integration segments. These kinds of mobile applications can range from USD 5,000 to USD 50,000.

2. Cost Range for Moderate E-commerce Mobile App

An average and moderate e-commerce mobile application will typically have more advanced and progressive features. These features include user account management, push notifications, product recommendations, and social media integration.

These kinds of mobile applications can range from USD 50,000 to USD 1000,000.

3. Cost Range for Complex E-commerce Mobile App

A complex or complicated e-commerce mobile application will have the utmost advanced features and functionalities, including multi-language support, inventory management, multi-vendor support, and integration with other systems such as CRM and ERP. These kinds of mobile applications can range from USD 100,000 to USD 500,000.

Tips to Reduce Ecommerce App Development Cost

The development of a mobile ecommerce application can be costly. Luckily, there are some tips that will help you reduce the cost of development without compromising the quality of the app. Here are some of the most popular and practical ways to reduce the e-commerce mobile app development cost. Let’s learn them in a bit more detail.

1. Selecting Open-Source Platforms

One of the most efficient ways to reduce the e-commerce app development cost is by selecting open-source platforms. These platforms deliver free software that is able to be customized seamlessly and adjusted to meet the needs and requirements of your future business idea.

This simply means that you don’t have to spend a hefty of money in developing an app from the beginning. With open-source platforms, you can seek help from app developers who are able to help you with all the issues that may develop.

2. Simplifying App Design

Another popular way to reduce the e-commerce mobile app development cost is by simplifying the design of the app. This simply means concentrating on the essential functionalities and features of the application rather than trying to stuff every single feature into the app. When you streamline the design of the e-commerce app, you are able to reduce the cost of development significantly without compromising the quality of the app.

3. Hire an E commerce App Development Company

A multi-vendor or single-vendor e-commerce app development company can help you a lot when it comes to reducing the cost of app development for ecommerce. By seeking help from a professional and skilled team of app developers, you can get the utmost benefits from their skills and expertise and follow their guidance.

With this, you can stay ahead of the competition by avoiding varied mistakes that can emerge when you perform the job all by yourself with less or no knowledge. It will reduce the cost of e-commerce app development significantly without even sacrificing the quality of the app as you will be working under perfect guidance.

4. Limiting App Features

Next comes limiting the features and functionalities of the mobile app for ecommerce. By concentrating on the crucial features, software platform and functionalities of the application, you are able to reduce the ecommerce app cost significantly. This helps you ensure that the mobile app is easy and seamless to use and navigate, which is crucial for delivering a suitable user experience.

Also Read:- Why Do You Need Software Development Services?

5. Conducting Beta Testing

Last but not least, conducting beta testing is another efficient way to reduce the ecommerce app cost. By testing the application before launching it, you can specify and resolve all the issues and bugs before they become more influential problems.

This helps ensure that the e commerce app has been made with a high-quality and functional. With this, you are able to reduce the cost of maintenance and support in an extended period.

Overview of E Commerce App Market in India

The online business has shown tremendous growth after the COVID-19 pandemic. And now, it has been foreseen that the B2B e-commerce sales will reach nearly USD 2.44 trillion by 2025. Another market research report expresses that the global service marketplace for e-commerce has been predicted to grow at a rapid pace with a compound annual growth rate of 22.9% from 2020 in order to reach USD 16,215.6 billion by 2027.

The world after the COVID-19 pandemic ended, compelled every type of business to turn from retail stores to digital shopping stores. In 2025, we can expect to see an increase in e-commerce mobile apps with several businesses of all sizes becoming progressively competitive as they seek several ways to differentiate themselves from their competitors.

Final Talk

Developing a mobile application for eCommerce can be a significant investment, however, it can also provide a considerable return on investment for several businesses. The pricing of e commerce app development differs based on multiple factors and certain features and functionalities of the mobile application. However, developing an ecommerce application can cost you around $100,000+ - $500,000+.

Therefore, it is important to work with an experienced, professional, and reliable app development company that can help you a lot in order to navigate the ecommerce labyrinth, understand the process, and make sure that your project achieves predominant success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do small apps make money?

Ans. Yes, free apps can generate money through in-app advertising or affiliate marketing. Developers use this kind of monetization strategy in order to make money depending on the user interaction with the ads displayed in the mobile application. Remember, you will need numerous downloads in order to get profit from a free app.

Q. How much money is needed to make an app like Amazon?

Ans. On average, the cost to develop a mobile app just like Amazon differs around $40,000 - $300,000. The cost of app development is influenced by various factors, including the feature lists, UI/UX design, the hourly rate of marketplace app developers, complexity, and several other factors.

Q. How much does it cost to develop an app like Flipkart?

Ans. Taking all the factors into consideration, the cost of developing an ecommerce mobile app like Flipkart will range from USD 25,000 to USD 50,000 with basic features and functionalities on a single platform.

Q. How much does it cost to develop an ecommerce app?

Ans. An e-commerce app generally costs USD 37,500 to develop. Nevertheless, the absolute cost can be as low as USD 25,000 or as high as USD 50,000.