How Much Does It Cost to Build a React Native App? 

When a business wants an app that works on both Android and iOS, React Native becomes the go-to choice.

They choose React Native for cross-platform app development projects.

As per the State of React Native 2024 survey, about half of the developers said that their best-performing React Native app has less than 1000 users, while another 37% have mobile apps that crossed 10,000 users.

This shows how widely it is used across small and larger scales to develop a React Native app.

However, it is quite confusing and difficult to estimate the React Native app development cost.

But fret not! This blog will assist you in everything related to React Native mobile app development cost.

So, let’s begin!

What is a React Native App?

A React Native app is a mobile application that is developed using the React Native Framework.

It is an open-source framework which is developed by Meta and has become the most popular platform among developers.

Additionally, it enables developers to target both Android and iOS with a single codebase.

With React Native, you can create mobile apps faster and more efficiently. It uses JavaScript and React but makes mobile applications that look and feel like real native applications.

What Makes React Native the Best Choice Among Developers?

• The market size of React Native app development is forecasted to reach $499 million by 2031.
• React Native allows around 90% code reuse between applications.
• JS is the second most popular framework with 42.62% active users.
• Almost 40% of developers choose React Native.
• React Native reduces 40%-50% of the development time.

How Much Does it Cost to Build a React Native Application?

The React Native app development cost depends on how big and advanced your mobile app is. But on average, it usually ranges between $25,000-$150,000.

This is not the exact React Native app development cost as it depends on your unique project requirements, the developer’s experience, and other crucial factors.

A basic application developed with React Native, like a basic business or utility app, can cost around $25000-$70,000.

However, if you want to develop a complex mobile app with advanced features, the cost may range between $80,000-$150,000.

The best part about React Native is that it allows developers to write one codebase for cross-platform app development.

It really saves around 30-40% of development time compared to developing separate native applications.

This makes React Native apps a super cost-effective choice for creating cross-platform mobile applications.

Factors Affecting the Cost to Develop a React Native App

When it comes to developing a mobile app with the React Native Framework, the cost is not actually fixed. It fluctuates based on a few major factors that we are going to discuss below.

So, let’s have a look at the cost to build a React Native app that really makes a difference.

1. App Complexity

If you have developed any apps before, you may know that the mobile app complexity is the main factor affecting the cost.

If your mobile app has only a few screens and core features like user login, push notification, and user profile, it will certainly cost less.

However, once you integrate advanced and customized features in your app, the mobile app development cost will increase.

Each new feature requires extra coding, testing, and optimization, and that’s what pushes the overall cost higher.

2. App Design

Your mobile app design plays a significant role in the cost to build a React Native app.

A simple layout with standard elements costs much less than a visually rich app with custom graphics, animations, and transitions.

The more attractive and appealing your design is, the more time designers spend designing it.

And let’s be honest. Users are attracted more to apps that feel seamless and visually appealing.

So, investing a bit more in UI/UX design can make your mobile app stand out and bring long-term engagement.

3. Platform Specific Features

React Native is popular for working smoothly on both Android and iOS by using a single codebase.

However, if your mobile app requires platform-specific features like Face ID, etc, for iPhones or Android widgets, the developers will have to write additional native code.

These small differences between platforms may not sound like much, but they add extra hours of work.

Still, the benefit is that you get a high-performing application that feels native on both devices without doubling your overall cost as compared to native apps.

4. Backend and API Integration

Your mobile app’s backend is like its brain. It manages all the data, user accounts, and communication with servers.

A simple application with very little or no data can cost you less with the React Native framework.

However, API integration in mobile apps connected with payment gateways, cloud storage, and external tools needs a stronger-backed setup.

This needs more React Native app development cost and testing time. The more seamlessly your backend runs, the less the cost to build a React Native app.

5. Developer’s Location and Experience

Who develops your app can influence the cost of making a React Native app as much as what you are creating.

If you hire a React Native developer who is highly experienced, they will know how to write efficient, reusable code that saves development time and avoids costly rework later.

They understand mobile app architecture, performance tuning, and how to make your app feel native on both platforms.

Obviously, this level of expertise comes at a higher rate. Besides, location also plays a vital role. When you hire developers from regions like the USA, Europe, the cost of hiring them is very high.

6. App Maintenance

Mobile app maintenance is also the next factor that influences the cost to build a mobile app with the React Native framework.

Developing an app is not the end of the process. Mobile app maintenance is really important.

Regular testing, updates, and maintenance will keep your app running very smoothly and performing well with other new devices and OS versions.

Fixing bugs, adding new features, and improving speed can add to the total cost.

How does the React Native Framework Reduce the Development Cost?

If you are a business owner planning to build a mobile app with the React Native framework, you already know it is the best choice.

But even with React Native, development costs can increase if you are not careful.

So, here are some tips to optimize the cost to build a react native app.

• Start with an MVP

Jumping straight into developing a full-featured mobile app can really cost you higher and risky.

Instead, you can focus on developing an MVP version that only includes must-have features that solve the user’s main problems.

This way, you can easily test your React Native project ideas with real-world users and collect feedback and modify them gradually. This helps reduce the cost to build a React Native app.

• Test and Update in Stages

Testing everything at once can be overwhelming and cost you a lot. Instead, test the crucial features first and automate repetitive checks wherever possible.

When you upload the app to the desired platforms, you can release the changes gradually. This staged approach keeps your mobile app stable, your team efficient, and your budget under control.

• Reuse Components Wherever Possible

One of the best things about React Native is the ability to reuse components in your app.

Things like buttons, forms, and navigation menus do not need to be developed from scratch every time.

However, if you use pre-built components or trusted mobile app development frameworks, it really saves development time and reduces errors.

Experienced developers know which ones are reliable, so you get the best without sacrificing quality.

• Stick to One Codebase

React Native allows you to develop applications for Android and iOS from a single codebase.

This is a huge cost saver. Resist the temptation to add too many platform-specific features unless they are absolutely necessary.

A unified codebase keeps development really simple, testing easier, and mobile app maintenance cheaper over time.

So, it is advisable to stick to one codebase with React Native to optimize the development cost.

When Should You Opt for React Native to Develop a Mobile App?

Now that we have discussed almost everything about developing a React Native app, how will you decide what’s perfect for your business? React Native or Native.

Well, we have jotted down some scenarios where you can opt for React Native.

1. When You Want to Reach a Wider Audience Fast

If your goal is to launch a mobile app that works on both Android and iOS without spending double the time or cost to make a React Native app.

React Native is the way to go. With one codebase, your business can target larger audiences on different platforms without any hassle.

You don’t have to manage two different mobile app development teams; one app does it all. It is a practical choice for businesses that value speed, reach, and efficiency.

2. When You Have a Limited Budget or Need Faster Results

As we all know, not every business starts with a huge development budget. React Native helps you build high-quality mobile apps with less development cost.

Since developers reuse most of the code for both platforms, your app can hit the market faster.

This is best for startups or growing businesses that want to validate their idea quickly and start generating results early.

3. When You Want a Native-Like Experience Without Making Two Apps

User experience can make or break our app. The best part about React Native is that it delivers a performance that feels like a native app.

Your target audience gets a smooth, responsive, and reliable experience without having to invest in separate Android and iOS app development. It is smart, cost-effective, and user-focused.

4. When You Plan to Scale, Keep Improving

If you see your business growing and your app evolving, React Native will help your business scale.

No matter if you want to add new features, redesign the user interface, or roll out updates quickly, it supports it all.

Additionally, with a strong developer community, your business always has access to new looks, solutions, and innovations.

What is the Cost of Hiring a React Native Developer?

If you have made up your mind to develop a mobile app with the React Native framework.

Since it is the major factor in affecting the React Native app development cost, you have to determine its hiring cost.

Well, hiring a developer does not have one fixed cost; it usually depends on who you hire and from where.

If you are working with developers from India or Asian countries, the cost to hire a React Native developer can be around $25-$50 per hour.

But if you go for developers in the USA or Europe, then the rate usually starts from $50 and can go beyond $100 per hour.

Now, if your dream project is small and can be done in a month or 2, then you can pay for it.

So, it is not about finding the cheapest option; it is about hiring someone who understands your mobile app idea and can develop it right away without wasting your time or budget.

Why Do Businesses Choose React Native App Development?

When you think about developing a mobile app, the first thing that comes to mind is how do you exactly balance cost, speed, and quality.

Well, that’s exactly where React Native helps. It has become the go-to choice for startups and enterprises.

Let’s check out why businesses should select React Native for mobile app development.

1. One Codebase, Double the Reach

Just think about writing a mobile app’s code once and launching it on both Android and iOS. Doesn’t it sound like a dream, right? That’s what React Native provides.

You do not have to hire two separate teams or maintain two versions of the same app.

This really saves you time and reduces the cost to build a React Native app. As per Statista, around 38% of developers globally use React Native for mobile app projects.

And that number keeps increasing every year. It is a simple formula: less duplication and more impact.

2. Faster Development = Faster Launch

Nowadays, launching your app on the app stores quickly matters a lot. React Native’s hot reloading feature allows a mobile app development company to make instant changes without restarting the app. That’s a huge productivity booster. The outcome?

Faster turnaround from idea to app store. According to a report, companies using React Native can reduce development time by up to 40% compared to native development.

That speed helps businesses stay ahead of their competitors.

3. Cost-effective Without Compromising Quality

For startups or small businesses, budget is always a major concern. The beauty of React Native is that you get two apps for nearly the cost of one.

You do not have to spend separately for the iOS and Android teams.

A survey found that React Native projects can save businesses between 30-50% in overall costs to build a React Native app.

That’s why even enterprise-level businesses are switching to React Native and choosing mobile app tech stacks for developing React Native apps.

4. Smooth Performance That Feels Native

It is a common myth that hybrid apps lag behind native ones. But with React Native, that’s no longer true.

It uses native components under the hood, which makes the experience very seamless. Users can hardly tell the difference.

Apps like Facebook and Skype are live examples of that. In a study, developers noted that React Native apps perform within 90-95% of native speed, which is impressive for a cross-platform framework.

Get Your App Created by Nimble AppGenie Within Your Budget

Do you have an app idea but are worried it will cost a fortune? Don’t worry. At Nimble AppGenie, we provide world-class React Native app development services to businesses of every size.

We excel in developing top-notch React Native apps that actually fit your budget. No over-promises, no crazy prices, just good, honest work that gets your dream idea out there.

We listen to what you want, suggest what actually makes sense, and build something you will be proud to call yours.

No matter if you want a small startup app or something a bit more complex, we ensure your React Native app looks great, works smoothly, and does not burn your pocket.

If you have been putting your app dreams on hold because of money, maybe it is time for a consultation. Get in touch with Nimble AppGenie and get your dream app built with React Native within your budget!

Final Thoughts

So, by now you must have a clear idea of what goes into developing a React Native app. It is not just about coding; it is about creating an experience that connects with users and helps your business grow.

No matter if you are starting a startup idea or modifying an existing mobile application, React Native gives you the flexibility and speed you need to succeed.

The best part? You can turn your dream mobile app idea into life without compromising on the quality. Therefore, if you have been waiting for the right time to get started, this is your sign to make it happen.

FAQs

Niketan Sharma

Niketan Sharma, CTO, Nimble AppGenie, is a tech enthusiast with more than a decade of experience in delivering high-value solutions that allow a brand to penetrate the market easily. With a strong hold on mobile app development, he is actively working to help businesses identify the potential of digital transformation by sharing insightful statistics, guides & blogs.