How Much Does It Cost to Build an E-Commerce App?

The e-commerce industry continues to dominate global retail, with apps like Amazon, Shopify, and Etsy generating billions in sales. If you’re planning to develop an e-commerce app, understanding the cost structure is crucial to building a successful online store.
Key Factors Influencing the Cost of an E-Commerce App
- Features & Functionalities
The complexity of e-commerce features affects costs:
- User Authentication & Profiles ($3,000–$8,000)
- Product Listings & Categories ($5,000–$15,000)
- Shopping Cart & Checkout System ($10,000–$25,000)
- Payment Gateway Integration (Stripe, PayPal, Apple Pay) ($5,000–$15,000)
- AI-Based Product Recommendations ($10,000–$30,000)
- Inventory & Order Management ($15,000–$50,000)
- Platform Choice
- iOS & Android Apps: Costs increase if both platforms are needed.
- Web & Mobile Versions: Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are more cost-effective.
- Backend Development & Hosting
Handling product data, orders, and payments requires a strong backend.
- Cloud Storage & Database: AWS, Firebase, or custom solutions ($15,000–$50,000)
- Security & Encryption: Protects transactions and user data ($5,000–$20,000)
- Development Team & UI/UX Design
Hiring in-house US developers costs $100–$250/hour, while outsourcing to India, Eastern Europe costs $30–$100/hour. UI/UX design for a professional e-commerce app costs $10,000–$30,000.
Real-World Examples of E-Commerce Apps
✅ Amazon – Global marketplace with AI-driven recommendations.
✅ Shopify – Enables businesses to launch e-commerce stores.
✅ Etsy – A platform for unique, handmade products.
Resources for E-Commerce App Development
📌 Shopify API – E-commerce backend integrations.
📌 Stripe Payments – Payment processing for online stores.
📌 BigCommerce Blog – Industry trends & tips.
Conclusion
Developing an e-commerce app costs anywhere from $20,000 to $250,000+, depending on features, backend infrastructure, and platform choices.
🚀 Want to estimate the cost of your e-commerce app? Contact us for a free consultation and get a step-by-step development plan.