The use of the Internet is increasing day by day. Each day, global internet users spend 6 hours, and 41 minutes online, according to researchers.
More and more users rely on their mobile devices for everything. Whether it is online shopping to social media, there is the use of web solutions.
As we look ahead to 2024, it’s clear the demand for digital products and services will be more than what we have today. So, as a startup, what steps are you taking to be at the forefront of this digital revolution?
Well, there are tons of strategies and steps that startups can take for this, but one of the best solutions to consider is the development of a Progressive Web App (PWA).
Yes, this is an incredible approach to web development that combines the best of both worlds: the accessibility of a website and the functionality of a mobile app.
However, one who takes up this lane, has the inevitable question – how much does it cost to develop a progressive web app in 2024?
To let you know, the cost of developing a simple PWA starts at $15,000 and gradually reaches $150,000, or more.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the progressive web apps development cost and give you a clear idea of what to expect while developing one.
Progressive Web Apps- What Actually It Is?
Progressive Web Apps, known in tech circles as PWAs. This is a web application that operates as fluidly as a mobile app, delivering a smooth experience across a range of devices.
PWAs have been ingeniously designed to marry the most desirable characteristics of web and native apps. They gift users with:
- the convenience of working offline
- allows sending push notifications
- astoundingly load at lightning-fast speed
- works even on networks that lag.
Besides, the usage of PWA is high these days. Currently, 20,310 live websites have been found using PWA.
Now, even though we’ll delve deeper into their features and uses, let’s take a look at the progressive web app development costs.
The Cost Factors Involved in Developing a PWA
Building a progressive web app isn’t a one-size-fits-all endeavour. Just like crafting a bespoke website, the process involves a multitude of steps, each accompanied by its unique costs. From ideating to designing to launching, several elements come into play that directly influence the overall cost of PWA.
So, let’s talk about some of those elements that impact the cost.
1. How easy and hard is it to build PWA, i.e. complexity
The more you find complexity in developing your PWA, the more hours the team will need to dedicate to its creation, and that directly raises higher costs.
Are you envisioning a simple app with a handful of basic features? Or perhaps a robust platform with complex integrations and functionalities? Your choice will significantly impact your budget.
Moreover, if you’re aiming for an MVP (Minimum Viable Product), you can expect a leaner budget. However, if you’re planning a feature-rich PWA with advanced functionalities, you’ll need to pay for a higher investment.
Remember, each extra layer of complexity adds to the development time and, therefore, the progressive web apps development company you hire will cost accordingly.
| Complexity Level | Feature Examples | Estimated Cost Range | Development Timeframe |
| Simple | Static content, offline access, push notifications | $15,000 – $25,000 | 2 – 4 weeks |
| Medium | Basic user authentication, e-commerce functionalities, limited dynamic content | $35,000 – $50,000 | 2 – 6 months |
| High | Complex user interfaces, custom animations, advanced payment integrations, real-time data updates | $50,000 – $150,000+ | 6 months – 1 year+ |
2. The design quality.
Remember, your PWA is an extension of your brand; it needs to reflect your identity and appeal to your users. Top-notch designs often require the expertise of seasoned UI/UX designers. That means, it could potentially inflate your PWA costs.
However, an eye-catching, user-friendly app can engage users more effectively and justify the initial investment.
3. Location of the development team
The development team’s location and hourly rates also play a crucial role in determining the cost of developing a progressive web application. Teams based in different geographical regions come with varying price tags.
Offshore developers may offer more competitive rates than those based in North America or Western Europe, but it’s essential to strike a balance between cost and quality.
Other Factors That Impact PWA Cost
Besides these three factors, there are other elements that impact the cost of PWA. You’ll also need to factor in project management, which usually accounts for around 10% to 15% of the total project hours.
Then, there’s the element of third-party integrations, such as payment gateways, CRM systems, or other API integrations. Depending on the complexity, this could add another 50 to 150 hours to the total, translating to $2,500 to $7,500.
To sum it up, a ballpark figure for a basic PWA might start around $15,000, with more complex apps running into six figures. It’s a wide range, but understanding these cost components will help you plan effectively and make informed decisions about your PWA investment.
Maintenance and Update Costs
Think of your app like a high-performance sports car. You wouldn’t buy one without budgeting for its regular servicing, right? Similarly, your app needs regular ‘servicing’ to remain at peak performance and continue delivering a top-notch user experience. This is where maintenance and update costs come into play.
Your PWA isn’t a static entity. It needs to grow and evolve with your business, your user’s demands, and the rapidly changing tech landscape. The cost associated with this evolution will likely include-
- Feature adjustments
- Bug fixes
- Addition of a new feature
- Innovative functionalities
All these are based on the insightful feedback of your users. This is an ongoing, dynamic process and should be considered a vital part of your long-term budgeting of your PWA.
So, how much should you earmark for these maintenance and updates? Typically, you should anticipate dedicating around 15-20% of your initial development budget annually to these tasks.
Don’t be alarmed by this figure; this ongoing investment plays a vital role in maintaining the health of your PWA and ensuring its longevity. Your app’s performance and user experience is a reflection of your brand, and consistent updates and maintenance can significantly contribute to a positive perception, reinforcing customer trust and loyalty.
To Sum Up..
So, while it’s challenging to pin down an exact figure without knowing the specifics of your project, these factors will give you a solid starting point.
From here, you can start mapping out a budget for your progressive web app and prepare for an exciting journey ahead.
Furthermore, while the costs to create a PWA can appear steep, it’s critical to view this as an investment rather than an expense. This investment can yield substantial returns that propel your business forward. Just as real estate or stock investments can grow over time, a well-crafted PWA can appreciate in value, bringing significant benefits to your business. So, go ahead and hire a reliable web app development company for your project.
