How Much Does It Cost to Build a React Native App in 2023?

“React Native: Write once, run anywhere – even on two completely different platforms.” – Spencer Carli.    

Are you looking for the cost to build a React Native app? If yes, then you must read this blog. In this rapidly expanding industry, technological advancements are at advanced levels. This fierce industry requires that an organization establish its brand through mobile application channels. 

React Native is a popular framework for developing cross-platform apps. React Native is used to develop more than 14,85% of the top-downloaded apps in the US, according to data from the Google Play Store or App Store.

According to projections, the application development market will grow at a rate of 8.58 percent per year (CAGR from 2022-2027), leading to a market worth US$ 755.50 Billion by 2027.

These figures clearly demonstrate that the market for mobile apps is booming at a rapid pace. Companies are trying to make the most of this trend, and they’re looking for the most efficient platform to develop React Native apps.

React Native is the preferred choice of development companies. We will first explore what React Native is and then shed some light on average React Native app development costs and factors in 2023. 

So, let’s begin.

What is React Native?

React Native, an open-source framework for mobile app development was launched by Meta. It is the most popular platform for iOS and Android developers because of its powerful set of widgets and tools. It has been demonstrated to save development time by up to 90% significantly. 

Numerous top companies preferred this framework for developing applications using React Native. Facebook, Airbnb, Uber Eats, Instagram, Walmart, and Tesla are some of the well-known companies that use React Native.     

So, if you also want to create an amazing app for your business with the React Native framework, then you must get assistance from a React Native app development services provider. 

Why Do Businesses Choose to Build a React Native App? 

Most startups want to have a mobile presence that is cost-effective and maintains performance. React Native is a great choice for businesses. So, let’s have a look at the below points that showcase the reasons to invest in react native app development.     

1. Low-cost App Development

Costs for developing a React Native mobile app are at least 2 to 3 times more expensive than those of a Native app. The common codebase and minimal resource requirements—both of which lower the cost to build a React Native app and raise development effort—are the causes of this discrepancy.   

2. Expedited Go-to-market Time

It is possible to launch an application on the market in the specified time frame, as the development time for the Native approach is shorter. The expedition largely determines the cost-benefit of React Native apps. 

3. Reduced Workforce

React Native has the advantage of only requiring one team to develop an application – one designer, one project manager, two developers, and one QA expert. Native application development requires a team of four people, one for each platform.

4. Native-like Look & Feel 

Only the performance of the app was a concern that held entrepreneurs back from investing in cross-platform development. React Native solves this problem by giving the user an app that looks and feels native.

5. Simplified User Interface

React Native has become a standard in the app development industry for creating beautiful user interfaces. Developing an action sequence is a crucial step in developing a mobile application. The process is streamlined with React Native. React Native is always evolving, making it more responsive and seamless and reducing loading times.

6. Simple Conversion From Web to App

Applications built using React Native, which is open-source, provide a single codebase that works with both iOS and Android. They can also be used to transform your existing web application into a mobile app. 

7. More Community Support

React Native is a platform that is open-source, which means all documentation relevant to the technology can be accessed by any React Native application developer. High community support is best characterized by the fact that you can get help from experts within the community or easily find tech and support info on the internet.

8. Reusable Codes and Pre-built Components

One of the biggest advantages of developing mobile apps with react native is that 90% of code can be shared between Android and iOS. React Native allows developers to share 90% of their code between Android and iOS applications.

9. Live Reloading

React Native includes a feature called live reloading, which allows developers to see the changes in the source code on the app without having to recompile it. This functionality drastically cuts down on the amount of time needed to build a React Native app.  

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

React Native offers a more affordable and efficient solution to entrepreneurs or start-ups. React Native’s cost-effectiveness, streamlined approach, and ease of use make it a great choice for anyone looking to deploy ideas quickly. 

The complexity of each project makes it difficult to give a specific figure. However, we can give an approximate estimate. The cost to build a React Native app will be around $15 to $25 an hour on average.     

However, the cost to build a React native app can vary greatly depending on the developer’s location, experience, and skills. Overall, React Native app development costs can vary significantly from as low as $8,000 to as much as $25,000. Below is the table that showcases the app development cost on the basis of app complexity: 

Moreover, if you want to know the exact cost of building a React Native app, then you should consult with a mobile app development company who have expertise in react native app development.

Factors Affecting the Cost to Build a React Native App

These are the factors that affect the cost of the React Native development app. Gaining an understanding of these aspects will enable you to save expenses without sacrificing the app’s stability and scalability. 

1. Complexity of the Application

The complexity of your app largely determines the cost to build a React Native app. It is important to classify your app in order to understand its features and functions. For example: – If your app is an e-commerce application, you will need more space than a simple to-do list.

You need to add features such as payment gateways and item filters. The cost of hiring React native developers depends on how sophisticated your program is. The more complicated an application is, the more expensive app development becomes. The complexity of the application has been used to determine React Native app pricing. 

2. Application Design

Prioritizing features, functionality, and offers is important when you plan for creating React native apps. These are the main aspects that will appeal to the target audience. To ensure client engagement, it is important to place a high priority on the application design.

A well-designed application will have a smooth flow, with animations and transitions to improve the user experience. An immersive app experience is likely achieved by investing in a suitable design strategy.

3. Application Maintenance 

It is important to maintain your application after you have developed and designed it according to your project’s requirements. React Native allows you to test and update your application with ease.

It is mainly based on the project’s scalability and the need to update. The project’s scalability and the changes made to the app are important factors in maintaining an application. The cost of maintaining an application is affected by design variations, updates to the development process, and errors.

4. Features of the Application

App features can also impact development costs. It is expected that your app will integrate technological features and functionalities, regardless of its size or scalability. It takes time to integrate each feature and functionality in your React Native app. Compounding each feature also has implications for estimating the cost to build a React Native app.

5. Admin Panel Development

This part helps companies manage the app, monitor their activities, display statistics, and update content in order to enable React Native app projects. The cost of React native app development increases as the admin panel becomes more functional.

Tips to Reduce the Cost to Build a React Native App

As per the reputed React Native app development company, below are the tips to reduce the cost to build a react native app. So let’s check out each of the tips carefully and implement them when develop your mobile app with React native technology: 

1. Plan and Define Clear Objectives

Before you start development, create a detailed project plan and define clear objectives. Understand your target audience and their needs, as this will guide the development process and prevent unnecessary feature creep. A well-defined scope will help you avoid expensive changes and delays later on.

2. Prioritize Features

Determine the must-have features that are essential for your app’s core functionality. Prioritize these features and consider leaving out non-essential elements for the initial release. This approach reduces development time and cost. Additional features can be added in future updates based on user feedback and financial resources.

3. Use Open-Source Libraries and Components

Leverage the power of open-source libraries and pre-built components in the React Native ecosystem. These resources save development time and cost, as you don’t need to reinvent the wheel for common functionalities. Platforms like npm and GitHub provide access to a vast library of free or low-cost packages that can be integrated into your app.

4. Optimize Code Reusability

One of the main advantages of React Native is code reusability. Write components and modules that can be shared across iOS and Android platforms. By minimizing platform-specific code and maximizing shared code, you reduce development effort and maintainability costs. This approach also ensures a consistent user experience on both platforms.

5. Consider Progressive Web Apps 

If your app’s primary goal is to provide content or basic functionality, consider developing a Progressive Web App alongside or instead of a native app. PWAs are cost-effective as they use web technologies and can run on multiple platforms. This approach can reduce the need for native development and the associated expenses. 

6. Outsource or Hire Remotely 

Depending on your location, hiring in-house developers can be expensive. Consider outsourcing development to countries with lower labor costs or hiring remote developers on a project basis. 

Ensure that you hire react native app developers who are experienced and reputable professionals to maintain the quality of your app. Outsourcing can significantly reduce labor costs while tapping into global talent. 

Final Thoughts 

It is difficult to provide a definite cost estimate for building a React Native app without knowing more about the specific requirements and project goals. Carefully consider your budget and your goals for the app, and work with a development team that has the skills and experience to bring your vision to life.   

Make sure to have a clear understanding of your project requirements and a rough budget before you start the development process. This will help ensure that you are able to build an app that meets your needs and fits within your budget. 

FAQ 

1. How to Make a React Native App?    

To build a React Native app, you must follow these steps:

• Set up your development environment with Node.js and npm.
• Install React Native CLI.
• Create a new project with ‘react-native init.’ 
• Write your app code using JavaScript/TypeScript and React components.
• Test your app on emulators or physical devices.
• Deploy your app to app stores or distribute it.

2. How Much Time Does it Take to Build a React Native App?

The time required to build a React Native app varies based on project complexity and team expertise. Simple apps can be developed in 2-3 months, while more complex ones may take 4-7 months. Factors include features, design, testing, and the development team’s size and skill level. 

3. Is React Native a Good Choice for an App Development Project?

React Native can be a good choice for app development projects, particularly when you want to build apps for both iOS and Android with a single codebase. It offers a cost-effective and efficient solution, but its suitability depends on specific project requirements, team expertise, and performance needs.

4. What Are the Benefits of Developing a React Native App?  

React Native offers cross-platform development, allowing developers to create mobile apps for iOS and Android with a single codebase. Benefits include faster development, cost savings, code reusability, a large community, and access to native device features. This approach streamlines app development and ensures a consistent user experience across platforms.