Where to Get an App Built: Outsourcing, Location, Cost, and More

An antique globe
Where in the globe to get an app built?

If you have a great app idea but don’t have the technical know-how to build it yourself, you probably need some help. So, it’s only want to know: Where to get an app built! Luckily you’ve stumbled upon this article, and we’ll help you answer the questions and more you may have about Outsourcing, Location, Cost, and More!

First, let’s start by answering the question, who can build apps?

Who can build apps?

You have a few options when you’re looking to get an app idea built. You can outsource by hiring an App Development Company or freelancer or even try to build it yourself.

Do It Yourself – DIY

If you have the time and resources, you could learn how to code and build your own mobile app yourself. But, unless you’re already pretty technically savvy, we wouldn’t recommend this option. It can take many months to learn the necessary programming languages and skills. Also, Android apps have different skill requirements than iOS apps.

Freelancers

The next option would be to find and hire a freelancer. A freelancer is usually a sole proprietor who contracts their services to multiple clients. You can find freelancers online on websites like Upwork, Fiverr and Toptal. Most freelancers are either Android or iOS developers, but some work with both platforms.

App Development Companies

Your last option would be to hire an App Development Company like Full Revolution. App development companies have teams of people who work together to create app solutions for their clients. This team usually includes developers, designers, and other professionals.

Should I outsource app development?

Outsourcing app development can be a good option for people or organisations without the existing technical know-how. It can also save you time and money in the long run.

When deciding whether or not to outsource, you should consider a few things:

  • The size and scope of your project
  • The skills needed to build the app
  • Your level of risk tolerance
  • Your budget for development
  • The time it will take to develop the app
  • The quality of the finished product

Where are app developers located?

While the temptation to search for “app developers near me” is common, app development is a global profession. Where many of the world’s top app developers work remotely, so you can access top talent at the touch of a button. That’s not to say location doesn’t matter.

In general, major cities play the role of technology hubs where app developers and designers base themselves. Here is an overview of what the app-building community looks like worldwide.

UK

App developers in the UK are some of the industry’s most experienced and qualified professionals. London, Cambridge, and Milton Keynes are the major tech hubs for app development and digital innovations. Manchester and Newcastle are also home to some excellent app development studios.

USA

App developers in the US are often considered the best in the world. Silicon Valley in California is the spiritual homeplace for the Tech and Startup scene. With tech titans calling it home, including iPhone makers Apple and makers of the Android operating system, Google. 

New York is generally considered the second-largest city for app development. But Austin, Texas, is increasingly popular among technology businesses – with many more companies moving operations from California since 2020.

India

App developers in India are among the most affordable professionals in the industry and usually have an excellent level of education. Some of India’s most popular cities for app developers are Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Chennai. These cities have a large pool of talent to choose from, and the cost of living is relatively low, making them an attractive option for outsourcing app development.

Eastern Europe

App developers in Eastern Europe are generally more affordable than those in Western Europe. Ukraine, Poland, Belarus, and Romania are the most popular countries for app developers in Eastern Europe. These countries are home to a large pool of creative and talented professionals.

Australia

App developers in Australia are known for their high quality and attention to detail – which usually comes with a higher price tag than in other locations worldwide. The most popular cities for app developers in Australia are Sydney and Melbourne. While these cities have a large pool of talent, the cost of living is relatively high.

Singapore

Singapore’s app developers are some of the industry’s most innovative and forward-thinking professionals. The most popular cities for app developers in Singapore are Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. These two cities offer a large pool of talent to choose from, and the cost of living is relatively low, making them an attractive option for outsourcing app development.

South America

App developers in South America are known for their creativity and passion for technology. The most popular places for app developers in South America are Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. These countries have a large pool of talent to choose from, and the cost of living is relatively low, especially compared to North America.

Indonesia

App developers in Indonesia are known for their dedication and commitment to their work. The most popular places for app developers in Indonesia are Jakarta and Bali. These two cities offer a large pool of talent to choose from, and the cost of living is relatively low, making them an attractive option for outsourcing app development.

Western Europe

The most popular cities for app developers in Western Europe are Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich. It should come as little surprise that all three of these cities are in Germany since Germany’s startup scene is booming. German app developers are considered some of the world’s most innovative and creative professionals.

How much does it cost to get an app built?

Multiple factors affect app build cost. When considering international locations, you’ll find that developer rates generally correlate with the cost of living.

Agencies

Here’s a breakdown of the average cost to develop an app in different countries.

Mean App development cost by country. Souce Statisa

Freelancers

Here are the median average hourly rates of freelance app developers, by country.

CountryAverage App Developer Hourly Rate ($)
Brazil$32
Argentina$29
Colombia$30
Mexico$32
The UK$39
Ireland$43
Germany$45
France$37
Netherlands$38
Switzerland$54
Belarus$28
Ukraine$29
Russia$31
Norway$44
Sweden$35
Finland$43
Denmark$37
Iceland$42
Spain$32
Portugal$31
Italy$33
Poland$35
Czech Republic$33
Romania$33
Hungary$30
Serbia$29
Egypt$23
Tunisia$21
Morocco$25
India$19
The Philippines$20
Bangladesh$19
Vietnam$20
Singapore$35
China$30
Japan$41
South Korea$28
Australia$42
New Zealand$42
Median App Developer Hourly Rate, by country. Source: Inaps

Freelancer vs App Development Company, which is better?

When deciding if a freelancer or app development company is best for your project, the factors to consider include project scope, risk tolerance, required skills, location, budget and timescale.

Project Scope

If you have a large and complex project, it may be better to go with an app development team with the resources to complete it.

Your Risk Tolerance

Most freelancers are great to work with, but the success of your project is up to them. By hiring a company of app developers, you are hiring a team of professionals who will support your project every step of the way.

Skills

If you require specific skills or experience, it may be better to go with an app development company with the specialism to meet your needs.

Location

Do you need to have your developers located in a specific country or region so that you can comply with relevant laws where you live?

Budget

Hiring a freelancer will generally be more cost-effective than an app development company – mainly because freelancers have lower business overheads than a company.

Timescale

If you need your project completed quickly, it may be better to go with an app development company that can provide more resources.

What to look for when hiring an App Development Company or Freelancer?

When looking for someone to develop your mobile app, you want to ensure they have the skills and experience necessary to create a high-quality product. There are a few things you can look for when hiring an App Development Company or Freelancer:

Portfolio of Previous Work

Make sure they have a strong portfolio of previous work. This will give you a good idea of their abilities and what kind of apps they are capable of developing.

References & Testimonials

Check out testimonials or ask for references from past clients to help you gauge their level of customer satisfaction.

Understanding Your Project

Make sure they have a clear understanding of your app development project requirements. They should be able to provide you with a detailed proposal outlining the scope of work and an estimated timeline for completion.

General Competence

Ask if they can walk you through their app development process so you know what to expect.

Pricing That Works For You

Inquire about their pricing structure. App development can be costly, so you want to ensure you are getting a fair price for the services you are receiving.

Where to find the best freelance app developers?

There are a few places you can look for the best freelance app developers:

Fiverr

Fiverr is an online platform connecting businesses with freelancers who offer services in various categories, including app development. 

Fiverr’s USP is its low prices and wide range of services. It can be a good platform for finding freelance app developers because it offers a wide range of services at low prices. Generally, you get what you pay with Fiver Gigs, where lower prices usually mean lower quality of work.

Tip: Before committing to any app development Gig on Fiverr, check previous work and reviews.

Website: Fiverr

Upwork

Upwork is a platform that connects businesses with freelancers for various projects. Its USP is that it offers an easy way for businesses to find, hire, and work with freelancers. They provide an easy-to-use platform and a variety of affordable pricing options.

There are over 12 million freelancers on Upwork from all around the world. This factor gives businesses many options when looking for the right person for their project.

The main drawback to using Upwork is that the quality of freelancers can be hit or miss. So, doing your research and reading reviews before hiring someone is essential.

Website: Upwork

Toptal

Toptal is another platform for finding freelance app developers. The critical difference with Toptal is that they only work with the top three per cent of developers, so you can be sure you’re getting quality work. 

The main downside of using Toptal is the cost. Because they only work with the top three per cent of developers, they charge a premium price. However, if you’re looking for high-quality work, the cost is worth it.

Toptal is a great platform for finding high-quality, reputable freelance app developers.

Website: Toptal

LinkedIn

You’ve likely heard of LinkedIn already; it’s a professional social networking site. It allows you to connect with other professionals and create a network of contacts.

Although LinkedIn is an ideal platform for finding professional app developers for longer-term projects. Generally, searching for freelance developers will take a little more effort than the other options mentioned, but the results can be better. 

Linkedin’s advantage over other platforms is seeing where and who a developer has worked in the past, testimonials and previous projects.

Tip: If you already have connections on LinkedIn, it’s worth writing a post asking for recommendations for app developers from people you know.

Website: LinkedIn

Where to find the best app development companies?

Two platforms created explicitly to help businesses find app development companies are Clutch and GoodFirms.

Clutch

Clutch is a platform that connects businesses with the best-fit agencies or service providers. Clutch’s USP is its ability to provide verified client reviews, data-driven insights, and transparency in the agency selection process.

The Clutch platform offers a variety of filters to find the best-fit App Development Company for your project, as well as verified client reviews and data-driven insights. 

Clutch’s platform is for businesses, so it may not be the best platform for individuals looking to hire an App Development Company.

Website: Clutch

GoodFirms

GoodFirms is a research and reviews platform for App Development Companies. It offers in-depth research and reviews of companies from its extensive database.

GoodFirms is a comprehensive platform that offers extensive research and reviews of App Development Companies. It does not provide businesses with personalised service, unlike Clutch.

Website: GoodFirms

Final thoughts

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of where to get an app built. The best solution for your project will depend on many factors, including the size and scope of the project, your budget, and the skills and experience you need.

Could you use some help on a mobile app development project?

At Full Revolution, we love to help entrepreneurs & organisations bring their app ideas to life. So, if you dream of launching an app for iPhone or Android devices and could use some help, you can get in touch with us here.

Written By

Aron Marriott-Smith

Software developer and tea drinker. Helping startups and creative agencies build digital products.

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