Flutter App Development Cost: Build High-Quality Apps on a Budget

According to data from Statista, Flutter continues to rise as a top choice among cross-platform frameworks. This growing demand gives us a good idea of the costs tied to developing software with Flutter. In short, the price of building a Flutter app can range anywhere between $10,000 to over $200,000. This estimate comes from our experience as a leading IT service provider specializing in cross-platform development.

After speaking with seasoned Flutter consultants and conducting thorough research, we’ve gathered insights into Flutter app development cost. However, keep in mind that multiple factors influence the final price tag. This guide will walk you through all the details.

I. Why Choose Flutter for App Development?

Since its official launch, Flutter has quickly shown its value by simplifying mobile app development and offering impressive time and cost savings. Here’s why startups and small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) should seriously consider investing in Flutter development:

Cost-Effective

Flutter is a more budget-friendly option compared to other cross-platform frameworks. It caters to companies of all sizes and needs. The framework allows developers to reuse code, meaning they can build apps for multiple platforms using the same codebase.

For small and medium-sized businesses, this means you can create high-performance apps with all the features you need without breaking the bank. Plus, with the rapid evolution of Flutter, development costs stay low. In fact, recent studies show that 46% of software developers now use Flutter, highlighting its growing popularity.

Source: Statista

Excellent User Experience

Flutter’s user interfaces are highly adaptable, ensuring smooth integration across different devices. Its unique rendering engine allows developers to keep the same UI when moving to another platform. This means users enjoy a consistent, native-like experience, no matter what device they’re on.

A great user experience is crucial for SMBs, as it boosts customer satisfaction and retention, helping businesses grow.

Faster and More Streamlined Development

Building feature-rich software can take a lot of time and resources. For startups and SMBs, long development cycles and high costs can be a challenge. However, working with a trusted Flutter development company can speed up the process.

With Flutter’s fast platform performance, businesses can reduce their Time to Market (TTM), giving them a competitive edge.

Boost in Productivity

Flutter’s “Hot Reload” feature allows designers and developers to work together more efficiently. Changes can be instantly reviewed without needing to modify the code. Developers can see UI updates in real-time during development, which saves time and boosts productivity.

Hot Reload also helps avoid constant code tweaking, enabling developers to concentrate on creating the app instead of getting slowed down by adjustments. This smooth, iterative development process makes it easier to test and refine ideas on the go.

Extensive Widget Library

Flutter comes with a wide variety of widgets designed for different industries, making it easy for developers to create complex user interfaces. In addition, third-party widgets and plugins further streamline the development process.

Thanks to this robust UI toolkit, building apps becomes even simpler. For small and medium-sized businesses, using Flutter helps boost visibility and expand their reach.

Easy to Modify and Update

Flutter’s unified codebase makes maintaining and updating apps a breeze. For startups and SMBs, having the flexibility to modify apps effortlessly is a big advantage.

Small companies can easily adapt their apps to stay on top of mobile development trends, while startups can make quick adjustments based on early user feedback. Flutter’s high level of customization ensures apps remain fresh and user-focused.

II. Factors That Affect Flutter App Development Cost

1. Impact of App Complexity

One of the biggest factors affecting the cost of Flutter app development is how complex the app is. A straightforward app with basic features will cost less than an advanced app packed with numerous functionalities.

For example, building a simple weather app that shows forecasts might cost between $20,000 and $25,000. On the other hand, creating a social media app with messaging, user profiles, and image sharing could easily exceed $100,000.

The time required to build your app is also influenced by its complexity. A basic app might take just a few months to develop, while a more intricate one could take up to a year, driving up the overall cost.

Factors affecting Flutter development cost

2. App Size and Scope

The size of your app refers to how much data it holds and how many features it offers. Larger, more feature-packed apps will naturally cost more to develop than smaller, simpler ones.

• Number of screens and features: More features and screens mean higher costs.
• Binary file size: The size of the app file that gets installed on a device.
• Storage requirements: How much space your app and its data take up on a device.
• Memory usage: The amount of RAM your app uses while running.
• Download size: The package size your users will download from the app store.
• Lines of code (LOC): More complicated apps, like an e-commerce platform, will require more lines of code than simpler apps. This isn’t a hard and fast rule, but it generally holds true.

Lines of code (LOC) is often used to gauge the size of a software program, as it counts the total number of lines in the app’s source code.

3. Influence of Features and Functionality

The features and functions you include in your app will have a major impact on its cost. The more advanced the features, the more time and expertise will be needed to build them, which leads to higher costs.

For example, advanced features like machine learning or artificial intelligence require specialized skills and a lot of coding, driving up the development expenses. Similarly, integrating multiple payment gateways, databases, or third-party APIs will also add to the cost.

Custom designs for UI/UX, as well as animations and interactive elements, can raise the price too. These elements require significant time and coding expertise, which adds to the overall cost.

4. System Integration Requirements

When it comes to connecting your Flutter app with other systems, the cost can increase depending on what’s involved. Integrating an app with external systems requires technical know-how.

For instance, integrating several payment gateways can be tricky and requires a deep understanding of how each one works. If the documentation is unclear, the process can become even more complicated, adding to the cost.

Similarly, integrating databases—whether SQL or NoSQL—will increase the cost. This includes designing the database structure, writing queries, and ensuring data security. Plus, integrating third-party APIs adds another layer of complexity and potential cost.

5. Design and Platform Considerations

The design requirements and platform choice (iOS, Android, or both) can also have a big effect on development time and cost. The more platforms you want your app to support, the more resources and time it will require.

If you’re building your app for both iOS and Android, you’ll need developers who understand both platforms, which can extend the development timeline and increase expenses.

However, if you’re only developing for one platform, the process will be simpler and more affordable.

According to research from Statista, cross-platform development using Flutter is becoming increasingly popular. Around 42% of developers already use Flutter, and about a third of mobile developers work with cross-platform tools. The research also shows that 45% of apps are built for both iOS and Android, while 41% are for Android only, 11% are iOS-only, and just 2% are for other platforms.

This makes Flutter an excellent choice for cross-platform development, as it allows you to target both iOS and Android users with a single codebase.

6. Screen and Page Count

The number of screens and pages in your app will also affect development time and cost. A simple app with one screen and a couple of buttons will be much cheaper to develop than an app with multiple screens and complex functionality.

For example, a basic app with only a few screens will require less development time, and therefore cost less. But as you add more screens and features, the price will go up.

Each screen and page needs its own design, user interface, and functionality. The more screens and pages your app has, the more time and effort will be needed to develop them, which increases the overall cost.

7. Development Timeline

The length of time it takes to develop your Flutter app can have a direct effect on overall costs. The longer the project takes, the more it will cost.

When it comes to pricing, you have a few different options to consider:

Time-Based Pricing

A time-based pricing model is based on the hours worked by the development team. The client pays for the time and effort put into building the app, regardless of the final outcome or results.

This model works well for projects with a flexible timeline or when the requirements aren’t fully defined. However, it can be unpredictable, and if the project scope changes, it could lead to going over budget.

Fixed-Price Contracts

A fixed-price contract means the client and development team agree on a set fee upfront. This fee remains the same, no matter how much time or effort is required to complete the project.

Fixed-price contracts are ideal when the project scope is clearly defined, allowing the development team to accurately estimate costs.

Which Pricing Model Should You Choose?

Choosing between a time-based model and a fixed-price contract depends on the nature of your project. If your project scope is well-defined, a fixed-price contract offers more stability and certainty. However, for projects where requirements are likely to change or evolve over time, a time-based model might be more flexible, though it comes with a greater risk of cost overruns.

8. Development Team: In-House vs. Outsourced

The team you select for development will significantly influence the cost of your Flutter app.

In-House Teams

Hiring an in-house team gives you full control over the development process. However, it can be expensive since you’ll need to cover salaries, benefits, and office space for your employees.

Additionally, you’ll need to make sure there’s enough work to keep your team busy. This means having multiple projects running at once or ensuring there’s enough work throughout the year to justify the cost.

Outsourcing Development

Working with an outsourced app development partner can be a more budget-friendly option.

Outsourced teams often have access to a larger pool of experienced developers, which can help reduce the additional expenses associated with recruiting and supervising an internal team.

With outsourcing, you only pay for the hours worked, giving you the ability to adjust your team size according to the project’s scope and complexity of your project.

Outsourcing provides increased adaptability in terms of resource allocation. It allows you to reduce costs by avoiding unnecessary staffing and gives you the ability to add resources as needed.

III. What is the Average Cost of Developing a Flutter App When Outsourced to Vietnam?

Outsourcing app development to Vietnam can significantly reduce costs while maintaining high-quality results. The cost of developing a Flutter app in Vietnam is typically 30-50% lower than in Western countries, but the final price still depends on several factors, such as the app’s size, complexity, and features.

Cost to develop a Flutter app

Let’s break down the cost and development timeline based on app size when outsourced to Vietnam:

Cost Breakdown by App Size (Outsourcing to Vietnam)

Small Applications (Average Cost: $8,000 – $10,000)

A small app or an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) typically takes about 2 months to develop when outsourced to Vietnam. These apps include essential features and basic designs, ideal for testing ideas in the market or as the foundation for future development. The cost for small apps in Vietnam ranges from $8,000 to $10,000.

Mid-Sized Applications (Average Cost: $12,000 – $18,000)

A mid-sized app with more features and functionality generally requires 3 to 4 months of development. Even if you hire additional developers to accelerate the process, the overall cost remains competitive. Outsourcing mid-sized apps to Vietnam can cost between $12,000 and $18,000.

Large Applications (Average Cost: $20,000 – $30,000)

For large apps, which typically include complex features and require 4 to 6 months or more for development, outsourcing to Vietnam can save you a substantial amount. The cost for large-scale apps ranges from $20,000 to $30,000, depending on the app’s complexity and required functionalities.

Average Flutter App Development Costs by Type (Outsource to Vietnam)

Here’s an overview of average costs based on the type and complexity of the app when outsourced to Vietnam:

Detailed Cost Estimates Based on App Complexity (Outsourcing to Vietnam)

1. Simple Application (e.g., Fitness App)
   An app with fundamental features will be priced at between $15,000 and $25,000 when outsourced to Vietnam. These apps focus on core functionality and are quicker to develop, making them ideal for startups looking to save on initial development costs.

2. Mid-Sized Application with Advanced Capabilities (e.g., App with Phone Call Features)
   A mid-sized app with more advanced features, such as phone call integration or user management, will cost between $25,000 and $35,000. Outsourcing to Vietnam makes such apps considerably more affordable compared to Western markets.

3. Large Application with Complex Features (e.g., Social Network App)
   A large, feature-rich app—such as a social networking app with messaging, profiles, and media sharing—will typically cost between $30,000 and $45,000 when outsourced to Vietnam. This is significantly more economical compared to developing in the US or Europe, where such an app may cost more than $60,000.

IV. How to Keep Flutter App Development Costs in Check

Flutter app development can sometimes push your budget to its limits if not managed properly. So, how can you create an outstanding Flutter app without overspending? Here are a few strategies to help you stay on track.

How to reduce Flutter app development cost

Outsource Your Project

Outsourcing gives you access to a worldwide talent pool, often allowing you to find expert services at rates that are more affordable than hiring in-house or local developers. Plus, you won’t need to worry about the costs of office space, equipment, or employee benefits.

Choosing the right outsourcing partner, like TECHVIFY, ensures that you get a team that understands your business, delivers high-quality work, and does so in a cost-effective way.

Start with an MVP

An MVP (Minimum Viable Product) is a version of your app containing only the crucial features required to satisfy the needs of initial users and gather valuable feedback for future updates. Concentrating on primary features allows you to reduce money and get your app to market faster.

This approach helps you validate your idea with real users and prevents you from investing in features that may not be necessary or popular. Once your MVP proves successful, you can expand features depending on user input and demand.

Set Clear Project Requirements

Being clear about your project’s scope and requirements from the start can help avoid confusion, reduce the number of revisions, and prevent scope creep—all of which can lead to higher development costs. When you provide a detailed brief, your development team can better understand your vision, offer accurate timelines, and give you a more precise cost estimate.

Limit App Features

While packing your app with features might sound appealing, each extra function adds complexity and increases development costs. To keep expenses down, focus on the key features that directly enhance the user experience and the app’s main purpose. Keep in mind, that simplicity and user-friendliness usually boost engagement more effectively than an extensive array of features.

Embrace the Agile Approach

Using an agile development approach allows you to prioritize tasks, regularly reassess project goals, and make adjustments as needed. This method helps you avoid unnecessary work, reduce risks, and produce a final product that meets user expectations. In the long run, agile development can help lower costs by ensuring your team only invests time and resources into features that truly add value.

Conclusion

Flutter has quickly become a top choice for businesses looking to develop high-quality, cross-platform apps at a fraction of the cost. However, the final cost of your app will depend on various factors such as complexity, features, and the size of your development team.

Outsourcing your Flutter app development, particularly to a cost-effective market like Vietnam, can further optimize your budget while maintaining high standards of quality. By choosing a trusted partner, you gain access to a global pool of experienced developers, allowing you to scale your project efficiently and bring your vision to life.

At TECHVIFY, we offer expert consultation and development services tailored to your needs. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, our team is ready to help you navigate the complexities of app development and turn your ideas into reality.

Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how we can deliver a high-quality, scalable app while keeping your budget in check.