What does a custom web app cost to build in 2026?
Having a web app developed in 2026 costs roughly €5,000 for a simple app up to €150,000+ for an extensive platform. A sharp MVP (minimal first version to validate) usually sits between €10,000 and €30,000 and ships in 6-12 weeks. Price depends on the number of features, user roles, integrations, and whether data or AI logic sits underneath. The smartest approach for SMEs: start small with an MVP, validate with real users, and build on what works.
Price ranges by ambition
- Simple app / internal tool — €5,000-€15,000. One core process, a few screens, basic login.
- Product MVP — €10,000-€30,000. A working first version with the core feature, ready to test with real users in 6-12 weeks.
- Full platform / SaaS — €30,000-€80,000. Multiple roles, payments, dashboards, integrations.
- Complex / data & AI-driven — €80,000-€150,000+. Many integrations, real-time data, AI features, high demands on scale and security.
Where does the budget go?
- Discovery & design — mapping the process, screens, data model. Saves costly misunderstandings later.
- Frontend — the interface; blazing-fast and pleasant to use. See frontend development.
- Backend & database — logic, storage, security, APIs.
- Integrations — connections to your existing tools, payments, email.
- Testing & delivery — quality, security and documentation.
Why an MVP beats 'everything at once'
The most expensive way to build an app is to plan everything up front and pour it into one big project. Many features turn out to be unnecessary in practice. An MVP delivers a working core in 6-12 weeks that you test with real users — then you invest deliberately in what demonstrably adds value. That lowers both risk and total cost.
Which stack fits?
We choose per project: Next.js for the front end, and Firebase, Azure or a custom backend depending on scale, data requirements and EU compliance. Torn between platforms? Read Firebase vs Supabase vs Azure and what a Firebase app costs.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is an MVP?
A Minimum Viable Product: the smallest working version of your app that delivers the core value, so you can test it with real users before spending heavily on extra features.
How long does development take?
An MVP typically ships in 6-12 weeks. A full platform runs toward 3-6 months, depending on scope and how fast decisions and content are settled.
Do I own the code?
With us, always. Code and data are yours — no vendor lock-in. Ask this explicitly on every quote; some parties keep it deliberately vague.
Can I scale later?
Yes, provided it's built for from the start. We pick a stack and architecture that grows with you, so scaling doesn't mean a rebuild.
Ready to start?
Read our approach to developing a web app, or book a short intro call — we'll take a no-obligation look and give you an honest estimate of scope, cost and timeline.