How much does it cost to build an app with AI?
The short answer
It depends on what you build and which tools you use. Many building tools, like Lovable, have a free option to start, with paid plans from around USD $25 a month once you need more. Beyond that, expect small ongoing costs for things like a domain name or payments if you launch publicly.
There isn't one number
The cost depends on how complex your idea is, how much building you do, and which tools you choose. What's true across the board is that it's far cheaper than hiring a developer, and you can start for free.
The rough shape of costs
Most people's early costs fall into a few small buckets rather than one big bill.
- Building tool: often free to start, then around USD $25/month and up if you outgrow the free tier
- Domain name: roughly $10 to $20 a year
- Payments provider: usually free to set up, with a small percentage taken per sale
- Anything extra you add later, like email tools or analytics, which often have free tiers too
How to keep costs low early on
Start on free tiers wherever you can. Don't pay for a building tool's higher plan until you've actually hit its limits. Don't buy a domain name until you're close to showing your idea to real people. Most early costs are optional until you're ready to go live.
Want to see the building tool for yourself?
Lovable has a free option, so you can try building before paying for anything. The AI Studio is where you work out what to build and why.
Lovable is a separate service from The AI Studio. We may earn a commission if you upgrade to a paid Lovable plan through our link. It doesn't cost you extra.
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Want to see what's included?
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