Building a high-quality mobile app for both Android and iOS takes serious time and money. If you create two separate native apps, your development cost can quickly double. Because of this, many businesses now choose cross-platform app development to save time and reduce expenses.
React Native is one of the most popular frameworks for cross-platform apps. In fact, around 14% of the most downloaded apps in the US are built using React Native, based on recent data from the Google Play Store and App Store. Even global brands like Facebook, Instagram, Skype, and Walmart use React Native in their mobile applications. This clearly shows that the framework is trusted by both startups and large enterprises.
However, one big question still remains: what is the cost of making a React Native app? The answer depends on many factors. In this blog, we will break down the real cost of React Native app development and explain what influences your overall budget.
React Native App Development Cost Based on Complexity
In general, the cost of building a React Native app ranges from $15,000 to $300,000. This is a rough estimate that depends mainly on the complexity of the application.
A simple app with the most basic features will cost less. On the other hand, a medium or complex app with advanced functions, integrations, and custom design will require a higher budget. As the complexity increases, the development time also increases.
Here is a general overview based on app complexity:
| React Native App Type | Estimated Cost | Estimated Time Frame |
| Simple App | $15,000 – $35,000 | 3 – 6 months |
| Medium Complexity App | $35,000 – $80,000 | 6 – 9 months |
| Complex App | $35,000 – $80,000 | 9 – 12 months |
These figures give you a broad idea. In the next section, we will break down the key factors and features that directly affect the final React Native app development cost.
Key Factors That Affect React Native App Development Cost
The cost of building a React Native app depends on several important factors. Every project requires a dedicated team and careful planning. From choosing custom features to deciding the development team size, these elements determine your overall budget.
1. App Complexity
The complexity of your app is the biggest factor that determines cost. If your app has only a few screens with core features like user login, push notifications, or a user profile, it will cost less.
However, when you add advanced features such as in-app purchases, third-party integrations, or IoT connections, development takes more time and work. Each new feature adds coding, testing, and adjustments, which increases the overall budget.
2. App Design
The design of your app also affects cost. A simple layout with standard elements costs less while a more detailed design with custom graphics, animations, and transitions takes more time.
Users tend to spend more time on applications that look well-organized and easy to use. Spending more on design can help your app attract and keep users.
3. App Features
The features you include in your application have a big impact on development cost. Here is a general overview of common features and their estimated cost:
| Feature | Description | Cost Estimate |
| Login and User Profile | Allows users to sign up, log in, and manage their profile | 2000 to 4000 USD |
| Admin Panel | Lets app owners manage content, track activity, and view statistics | 4000 to 6000 USD |
| API Integrations | Connects your app to third-party services like payment gateways or social media | 5000 to 5500 USD |
| Notification Panel | Sends push notifications and alerts to users | 5000 to 7500 USD |
| Geolocation / Maps | Enables location tracking, maps, and directions | 15000 to 20000 USD |
| IoT Integration | Connects the app to smart devices or sensors | 25000 to 30000 USD |
| Streaming Portal | Supports video or audio streaming within the app | 5000 to 10000 USD |
| E-Commerce Module | Handles product catalog, shopping cart, and payments | 10000 to 15000 USD |
| Chat / Messaging Feature | Allows users to chat or send messages in real time | 7000 to 12000 USD |
These features add functionality and make your app more engaging, but they also increase development time and cost.
4. Platform Specific Features
React Native allows one codebase to work on both Android and iOS. However, if your mobile application requires platform-specific features such as Face ID for iPhones or custom widgets for Android, developers have to write extra native code.
This adds some extra cost but still saves money compared to building two separate apps for each platform.
5. Category of App
The type of app affects cost. Simple apps such as calculators or timers are cheaper, while on-demand apps, m-commerce platforms, or enterprise solutions need more features, higher security, and support for more users, which increases the cost.
6. Hardware Integration
Apps that connect to hardware such as IoT devices, sensors, or other smart systems are more complex to build. Connecting multiple devices requires more coding and testing, which adds to both the development time and cost.
7. Maintenance
Costs do not stop at launch. Regular updates, bug fixes, and minor design changes are necessary to keep the app working properly and meet user expectations. On average, yearly maintenance is around twenty percent of the total development cost, so it is important to plan for it from the start.
8. Team Size and Location
The size and type of your development team affect cost. Freelancers are cheaper but may not deliver the same quality as an agency. High-cap agencies charge the most, while Mid-cap companies often offer the best balance, with hourly rates between 30 and 50 USD. Location matters too. Agencies in the US charge more than teams in Asia or Eastern Europe, which can change your overall budget significantly.
9. Add-Ons
Additional features or integrations, such as linking with social media or other tools, increase cost. The more personalized and feature-rich your app is, the higher the development cost. These add-ons can improve user experience and engagement, making them useful for your business.
How Choosing React Native Can Lower Your App Development Cost
React Native helps reduce the overall cost of building a mobile app while still allowing you to create a functional and user-friendly application.
1. Build for Android and iOS with the Same Code
With React Native, devs can create apps for both Android and iOS using the same code. As a result, you do not need separate development for each platform. This saves both time and money.
2. Only One Team Needed
You only need one development team because the same team works on both platforms. In comparison, native development usually requires separate teams for Android and iOS, which increases cost and adds extra coordination.
3. Ready Frameworks
React Native comes with frameworks that give developers a starting point. Because of this, less setup work is needed, and development can move faster.
4. Code Can Be Reused
The same code can be used for both Android and iOS. This reduces the amount of work required and shortens development time, which lowers the overall cost.
5. Easier Maintenance
Maintaining a React Native app is simpler since there is only one codebase. Updates, bug fixes, and small changes need to be done only once for both platforms, which helps keep maintenance costs lower.
6. Libraries and Components
React Native has many ready-made libraries and components. These help developers complete common tasks faster and save time. For example, tools like Lottie, Teaset, and Xamarin help finish the app sooner and reduce cost.
7. Third-Party Integrations
Adding extra features using third-party plugins is simpler in React Native. Developers can integrate functions for both platforms more quickly, which saves time and keeps development costs down.
Factors That Can Raise the Cost of a React Native App
There are several reasons why a React Native app might cost more than expected, and knowing them helps you plan better while keeping the app strong and scalable.
Shared Code Across Platforms
Using a single codebase for both can save effort; however, it can also create limitations. Since the two platforms have different standards, the app may end up looking or working the same on both, which can affect the user experience. That’s why making adjustments for each platform requires extra work and increases the overall cost.
Extra Effort for Performance
Native apps often perform better because they are built specifically for one platform and can use device features fully. React Native apps need additional work to reach the same level, and this includes refining animations, improving integrations, and handling heavy usage. Because of this added effort, the development cost goes up.
Learning the Framework
Even though React Native is easier to pick up than many other frameworks, developers still need to understand its features and best practices. Also, they may need to experiment with certain components before using them correctly. Since these steps take effort across the team, they add to the overall cost.
Security and Testing Requirements
Cross-platform applications can be more vulnerable than native apps if security is not carefully handled. Because of this, extra work is needed for testing, quality checks, and safeguarding the app against issues. So, investing in proper security measures raises the app cost but avoids bigger problems later.
When React Native Is the Right Choice for Your App?
After looking at the advantages and limitations of React Native, you might wonder when it makes sense for your business to choose it over native development. Here are a few situations where React Native can be the better option:
1. Moving From Existing Native Apps
If you already have apps built for Android or iOS, switching to React Native can make the process easier. Since the platform allows developers to reuse code across both platforms, migration is faster and requires less effort. This can save both time and money while keeping your app up to date.
2. Building an MVP
React Native is ideal for creating an MVP to test your idea in the market. Because you can develop apps for both platforms at the same time, you do not need a large development team. This speeds up your time to market, and developers can make quick updates to the code if needed, which is harder to do with native apps.
3. Rewriting an App from Scratch
If your app needs a complete rewrite, React Native can make the process simpler. Developers can reuse large portions of code, which increases productivity and shortens development time. This approach also lessens the risk of errors and keeps the app consistent across platforms.
4. Expanding From a Web App
If your business already has a web app, choosing React Native for your mobile app development can be very efficient. Since code can be shared between the web, Android, and iOS versions, it saves both development time and budget. This makes it easier to reach more users without starting from scratch on every platform.
Wrapping Up
Mobile app development has become an important tool for businesses aiming for long-term growth. However, deciding between a native app and a cross-platform app is still a common challenge. React Native makes it possible to build apps for multiple platforms using a single programming language, JavaScript, which saves time and effort. Because of this, many successful companies are taking advantage of React Native without compromising on performance or security. That’s why having experienced mobile developers on your team is key to making the most of this framework and achieving real business results. If you want to create a cost-effective and reliable mobile app, connect with the experts at Linkitsoft today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to make a React Native application?
The cost can vary depending on your application’s complexity, features, and the dev team you choose. For example, simple apps may cost around $15,000–$35,000, while complex apps with advanced features can go up to $300,000. Because each app is different, it’s best to discuss your specific requirements with an expert development team like Linkitsoft to get an accurate estimate.
Is React Native cheaper than native app development?
Yes, in many cases. Since React Native allows one codebase to work on both Android and iOS, you don’t need separate development for each platform. This saves both time and resources, so the overall cost is usually lower than building separate native apps.
How long does it take to build a React Native app?
The timeline depends on the app’s complexity. Simple apps can take around 3–6 months, medium-complexity apps may take 6–9 months, and highly complex apps could take 9–12 months. Because React Native allows shared code, development is often faster than building two separate native apps.
Can I add complex features in React Native?
Yes, you can. Features like geolocation, chat modules, e-commerce, and in-app purchases can all be added. However, each extra feature increases development time and cost. That’s why planning your app features carefully can help manage your budget.
Should I hire freelancers or a development company?
Freelancers can be cheaper, but they may not deliver the same level of quality or support as a company. Partnering with a mid-sized company often strikes the right balance between cost, reliability, and expertise. Also, companies usually handle maintenance, updates, and testing more efficiently.
