Did you know that the global food delivery market is set to reach US$0.78tn by the end of 2024?
That’s according to Statista!
Platforms like Seamless, Grubhub and Uber Eats are in high demand for their service.
But have you ever wondered how much food delivery app development cost?
It’s not as simple as you might think.
Join us as we explore the ins and outs of cost to develop a food delivery app.
Food Delivery App Development Cost for Startups, SMEs and Enterprises
The cost to develop a food delivery app varies based on several factors.
For startups and SMEs, a basic app may range from $10,000 to $50,000, while more comprehensive solutions for enterprises can exceed $100,000.
Platform-wise, Android app development typically falls within the $20,000 to $60,000 range, while iOS apps may cost slightly higher, around $25,000 to $70,000.
Web apps come in at $30,000 to $80,000, while Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) range from $15,000 to $50,000.
These figures serve as ballpark estimates, as the final cost depends on specific features, design complexity, and development rates which we will discuss further.
Pro Tip: Consider hiring an offshore mobile app development company to reduce in-house overhead costs.
On-Demand Food Delivery Apps Trend
In the United States, the online food delivery market is booming!
By 2025, it’s expected to hit a whopping US$353.30 billion in revenue.
And get this, it’s set to grow even more, with an annual growth rate of 10.05% from 2024 to 2029, reaching a massive US$570.40 billion
The grocery delivery market is also on the rise, with a projected 27.3% revenue growth in 2025 and a market volume of US$257.50 billion in 2024.
China leads globally, expected to rake in US$448.90 billion in 2024. With an average revenue of US$1.74k per user in grocery delivery by 2024 and 244.9 million users in meal delivery by 2029
People love the convenience of ordering food online via apps.
Food Delivery App Development Cost in India
In India, developing a food delivery app can range from $8,000 to $30,000.
The offshore developers and cost-effective resources make it an attractive destination for app development in India
Cost of Developing Food Delivery Apps of Different Types
Whether craving a gourmet meal, a healthy subscription plan, or a pantry restock, there’s a food delivery app for every appetite and occasion.
Aggregator Apps
Aggregator apps act as a bridge between consumers and multiple restaurants, offering a wide array of cuisines and menu options within a single platform.
Examples include Grubhub, Uber Eats, Food Panda and DoorDash.
Users can browse through various restaurants, compare prices, and place orders, all from the comfort of their smartphones.
Aggregator Apps like Grubhub or Uber Eats provide a wide range of cuisines from various restaurants, costing $30,000 to $100,000 to develop.
Platform Delivery Apps
Platform Delivery Apps offer end-to-end solutions, including logistics, connecting users with restaurants, costing between $50,000 to $150,000 for development.
Platforms with logistic support take the food and milk delivery experience a step further by providing end-to-end solutions, including delivery logistics.
These apps not only connect users with restaurants but also offer dedicated delivery personnel to make sure timely and efficient order fulfillment.
Companies like Deliveroo and Postmates exemplify this model, offering a comprehensive delivery ecosystem.
Cloud Kitchen
Cloud kitchen apps, also known as virtual restaurants or ghost kitchens, operate exclusively through online platforms without traditional brick-and-mortar establishments.
These apps leverage shared kitchen spaces to prepare and deliver food directly to customers.
By eliminating the overhead costs associated with physical locations, cloud kitchen apps offer affordability and scalability to both entrepreneurs and consumers.
Examples include Kitchen United and CloudKitchens.
Cloud Kitchen Apps, facilitating virtual restaurants, range from $40,000 to $120,000 for development, enabling entrepreneurs to operate without physical locations.
Subscription-Based Meal Delivery Apps
Subscription-based meal delivery apps cater to users seeking convenience and health-conscious options.
These apps offer curated meal plans and pre-prepared meals delivered on a recurring basis.
Users can choose from a variety of dietary preferences and customize their meal selections accordingly.
Blue Apron and HelloFresh are prominent examples in this category, offering convenient solutions for busy individuals and families.
Subscription-Based Meal Delivery Apps, exemplified by Blue Apron or HelloFresh, cost between $50,000 to $150,000 to develop, offering curated meal plans.
Grocery Delivery Apps
While not exclusively focused on prepared meals, grocery delivery apps play a vital role in the food delivery ecosystem by providing users with access to fresh ingredients and pantry staples delivered to their doorstep.
These apps allow users to shop for groceries online, select preferred delivery times, and have their orders delivered with ease.
Instacart and Amazon Fresh are leading players in the grocery delivery space.
Grocery Delivery Apps like Instacart or Amazon Fresh, with features for online shopping, cost $30,000 to $100,000 for development.
Development Cost of a Food Delivery App Features
Working with experienced developers such as TechnologyAlly will help you obtain accurate estimates, Below are some ballpark figures.
End-Users
Login: $2,000 – $5,000
Search Menu: $3,000 – $7,000
Cart: $2,500 – $6,000
Payment Integration: $3,500 – $8,000
Order Tracking: $3,000 – $7,000
Rating and Review: $2,500 – $6,000
Customer Support: $2,500 – $6,000
Restaurant Order Admin Panel
Login: $2,000 – $5,000
Menu Management: $3,000 – $7,000
Push Notification: $2,500 – $6,000
Checking Rating and Review: $2,000 – $5,000
Delivery & Logistics Panel
Registration: $2,000 – $5,000
Order Management: $3,000 – $7,000
Updating the Order Status: $2,500 – $6,000
Back-End Services
Admin Login: $2,000 – $5,000
Restaurant Management: $3,000 – $7,000
Application Management: $2,500 – $6,000
Payment Management: $3,000 – $7,000
Discount Offers and Coupons: $3,000 – $7,000
Cost of Developing Best Food Delivery Apps
These 15 platforms redefine convenience and culinary delight.
Caviar: $350,000 – $700,000
Slice: $250,000 – $500,000
ChowNow: $250,000 – $500,000
Eat24: $300,000 – $600,000
Zomato: $350,000 – $700,000
Swiggy: $350,000 – $700,000
Leading the pack is Grubhub, followed closely by Uber Eats and DoorDash, renowned for their extensive restaurant selections and delivery services.
Joining the ranks are Postmates, known for swift deliveries, and praised for its user-friendly interface.
Deliveroo, Instacart, and Caviar also secure spots on the list, each offering unique features catering to diverse tastes.
With Slice, ChowNow, and Eat24 in the mix, users enjoy a plethora of options for satisfying their cravings.
Rounding out the selection are Zomato, Swiggy, and Doordash, ensuring no appetite goes unfulfilled.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Developing Food Delivery App
When estimating the development cost of a food delivery app, several key factors come into play, each exerting its influence on the final price tag.
Platform Selection
Are you targeting iOS users, Android, Web or both?
Each platform comes with its own set of development requirements and costs.
Geographical Location
The location of the development team can significantly affect cost to develop a food delivery app.
Offshore product development often offer lower rates compared to those in Western countries, making outsourcing an attractive option for cost-conscious businesses.
Integration With Third Party Services
Integrating third-party services, such as payment gateways, mapping APIs, and inventory management software, can enhance app functionality but may incur additional costs.
The complexity of integrations and the number of services utilized contribute to food delivery app development cost in india.
Customization & Personalization
The level of customization and personalization desired for the app can impact costs.
Tailoring the app to specific user preferences, including personalized recommendations and user interfaces, may require additional development time and resources.
Backend development services will automate operations, but it comes at a price.
Factors like server hosting, database management, and scalability should be considered.
Challenges While Developing Food Delivery App
Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between experienced mobile app development company in Kansas to create a successful food delivery app.
Competition
Standing out in a crowded market requires innovative features, compelling user experiences, and top marketing strategies to attract and retain users amidst fierce competition from established players.
Regulatory Compliance
Food safety regulations and licensing, varies across regions and adds complexity to app development.
Data Security
User information and payment details against cyber threats require security measures and compliance with data protection regulations. Popular apps like door dash, uber Eats faced massive data leaks in past.
Real-Time Order Tracking
Implementing accurate real-time order tracking features demands synchronization between users, restaurants, and delivery guys requiring devops backend infrastructure.
Complex UI/UX
Balancing a user-friendly interface with features like search, menu browsing, and order tracking poses a challenge.
User Exploration across many devices is important for user satisfaction.
Future Tech Stack of Online Food Order Apps
But what does the future hold for these platforms?
Let’s browse the exciting advancements and innovations.
AI Food Ordering Channels
Expect to see the emergence of new ordering channels such as voice-activated assistants, smart appliances, and integration with social media platforms.
Users will be able to order food through voice commands or with a simple tap on their favourite social networking app.
Read our detailed guide on Ai App Development Cost
AI-Assisted Delivery Options
Drone delivery, autonomous vehicles, and even delivery robots are upcoming commonplace in the online food delivery ecosystem.
These innovative delivery methods will ensure faster, more efficient, and environmentally friendly delivery services.
AR/VR Integration
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies will revolutionize the way users interact with food ordering apps.
Imagine browsing through virtual menus, visualizing how your meal will look before ordering, or experiencing immersive dining experiences from the comfort of your home.
Bonus Read: Augmented Reality App Development Cost
Big Data Incorporation
Predictive ordering, and targeted promotions based on user preferences, location, and past ordering behaviour.
This will enhance user experience and increase customer loyalty.
Crypto Food Payment
The integration of cryptocurrency payment options will provide users with security in their transactions.
Blockchain technology can be leveraged to ensure transparency in the food supply chain, verifying the authenticity and quality of ingredients.
Service Diversifications
Online food order apps will diversify their services beyond traditional meal delivery.
This could include catering for events, pre-ordering meals for pickup, virtual cooking classes, or even nutritional consulting services to cater to health-conscious consumers.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives
With increasing environmental concerns, expect online food order apps to prioritize sustainability.
This may involve promoting eco-friendly packaging options, incentivizing customers to opt for carbon-neutral delivery methods, or partnering with environmentally conscious food suppliers.
AI Customizations
Advancements in AI and machine learning algorithms will allow online food ordering apps to offer ultra-personalized experiences.
From recommending meals tailored to individual dietary preferences to adjusting portion sizes based on user profiles.
Smart Home Devices
Imagine telling your smart fridge to reorder your favorite meal or using your smartwatch to track the delivery status in real-time.
Health & Wellness Focus
In response to growing health concerns, online food order apps will increasingly prioritize offering healthier menu options, providing nutritional information, and partnering with fitness apps to promote a balanced lifestyle.
Social Dining Experiences
Virtual dining experiences will become more prevalent, allowing users to enjoy meals together in a virtual environment, complete with interactive games, live entertainment, and the ability to share food recommendations.
Hyper-Localization
Online food order apps will leverage hyper-localization strategies to connect users with nearby restaurants, food trucks, and pop-up vendors, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences unique to each neighborhood.
Gamification Elements
Integrating gamification elements such as loyalty points, challenges, and rewards will enhance user engagement and incentivize frequent usage of online food order apps.
Users may compete with friends, unlock achievements, or participate in virtual food-related challenges for fun and rewards.
Food Delivery App Development Cost in India – FAQs
How much money do food delivery apps make in 2024?
In 2023, Grubhub recorded $2.1 billion in revenue. During this period, its gross transaction volume surged to $8.7 billion. User base of 24.6 million active monthly users and partnered with 300,000 restaurants across 4,000 cities.
How long does it take to develop a food delivery app?
A basic app may take around 3 to 6 months to develop, while more complex apps may require 6 months to a year or more.
Are there any ongoing costs associated with maintaining a food delivery app?
Yes, maintaining a food delivery app involves ongoing costs for hosting, updates, bug fixes, security enhancements, customer support, and marketing.
Budgeting around 20-30% of the initial development cost for annual maintenance is a common practice.
