What an app costs after launch: maintenance, store fees and hosting

Plan for 15% to 25% of the build cost each year to keep an app working, plus $99 a year to Apple and $25 once to Google. On a $10,000 build that is roughly $1,500 to $2,500 a year. The range comes from agency-published estimates (Netguru, Appinventiv), and the first year is often higher because real users find what testing did not.

What am I paying for?

• Operating system updates. Apple and Google release a major version every year. Apps that are not updated slowly break, and can be removed from the stores.
• Fixes. Real use finds real problems.
• Security updates. The libraries your app is built on need patching.
• Small changes. A new report, a changed price rule, a new role.

What are the fixed fees?

• Apple Developer Program: $99 a year (Apple).
• Google Play: $25, once (Google Play).
• Hosting and database: small for a business app with a few hundred users, and it grows with use. Ask for an estimate at your expected numbers.
• Third-party services: text messages, maps, payments and email are usually charged per use.

What happens if I do not maintain it?

Nothing, for a while. Then a phone update breaks a screen, a login stops working, or a store sends a warning about an outdated version. Fixing an app after two years of neglect usually costs more than maintaining it would have.

How do I keep it low?

• Build less. Every feature is something to maintain.
• Use one shared codebase for Android and iOS where the product allows it.
• Hold the hosting accounts yourself, so you see the bills directly.
• Ask what is included after launch before you sign.

At MadeReal the first 30 days of fixes are included. After that, a monthly team is $3,000 while there is new work, and you can stop it when there is not. See plans.