Maintaining good physical health is important, and timely access to essential medicines plays a major role in that. In today’s world, on-demand medicine delivery apps are a convenient solution, ensuring people can get the medications and healthcare products they need, right at their doorstep.
These apps are not just about convenience; they’re changing the healthcare industry by improving accessibility.
According to Statista, the online pharmacy market is projected to reach US$97.18bn in 2025.
But one question stuck in every mind of those who wanted to build a medical app: What does it take to build a medicine delivery app?
The cost can range from 20,000 to $120,000 or even more, depending on a range of factors such as app complexity, core features, and target platforms (iOS, Android, or web).
So, let’s explore the exact cost that gives you a clear picture of what it takes financially and strategically to develop a successful medicine delivery app.
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Get A QuoteHow Much Does it Cost to Develop a Medical App?
The development cost of an online medicine delivery app can vary widely based on several key factors, including:
- App’s complexity
- App features
- Target platforms (iOS, Android, or web)
- Location and expertise of your development team and more
To help you better understand the financial scope, look at the table below that shows the estimated cost of building the app. This will give you a clearer picture of what to expect when budgeting for your medical app development project.
| App Type | Features | Estimated Cost (USD) | Development Time |
| Basic App | User registration, medicine listing, search, cart, basic checkout | $20,000 – $35,000 | 2 – 3 months |
| Mid-Level App | Advanced search filters, payment gateway, order tracking, notifications | $35,000 – $60,000 | 3 – 5 months |
| Advanced App | Real-time tracking, e-prescriptions, in-app chat, multi-vendor support | $60,000 – $100,000+ | 5 – 8 months |
| Cross-Platform App | Runs on both iOS and Android with a single codebase (Flutter/React Native) | $30,000 – $70,000 | 3 – 6 months |
| Web + Mobile Solution | Mobile apps + Admin panel + Web ordering portal | $50,000 – $120,000+ | 4 – 8 months |
| MVP (Minimum Viable Product) | Basic features to test the idea in the market | $15,000 – $25,000 | 1.5 – 2.5 months |
Cost For Developing a Medicine Delivery App By Location
Below is the estimated medicine delivery app development cost based on the development team’s location.
| Region | Hourly Rate (USD) | Estimated Total Cost | Quality and Communication |
| United States | $100 – $180/hour | $100,000 – $200,000+ | Very High (native English, time-zone aligned) |
| United Kingdom | $80 – $150/hour | $90,000 – $180,000+ | Very High |
| Western Europe | $70 – $130/hour | $80,000 – $150,000+ | High |
| Eastern Europe | $40 – $80/hour | $40,000 – $90,000 | Moderate to High (strong tech talent) |
| India | $20 – $50/hour | $20,000 – $60,000 | Cost-effective with skilled developers |
| Pakistan/Bangladesh | $15 – $40/hour | $15,000 – $50,000 | Very cost-effective, rising in quality |
| Southeast Asia | $25 – $45/hour | $20,000 – $55,000 | Affordable, with improving expertise |
How Long Does It Take to Build a Medicine Delivery App?
The time to build a medicine delivery app ranges from 2-3 months for a basic version to 10+ months for a more advanced application with complex features.
Several factors influence the timeline, including:
- App complexity
- Number of platforms (iOS, Android, or both
- Development approach and more
| Complexity | App Development Timeline |
| Simple app development | 2-3 months |
| Average app development | 3-5 months |
| Complex app development | 10+ months |
Medicine Delivery App Development Cost: Based on Popular Medicine Delivery Apps
Here is the estimated medicine delivery app development cost based on popular existing apps in the market.
| App Name | Type | Main Features | Estimated Development Cost (USD) | Development Time |
| 1mg / Tata 1mg | Full-scale medicine app | ePharmacy, eConsultation, Lab tests, eWallet | $80,000 – $150,000+ | 6 – 8 months |
| NetMeds | ePharmacy + Lab services | User profile, Prescription upload, Order tracking, Payment gateway | $70,000 – $130,000+ | 5 – 7 months |
| PharmEasy | Medicine + Healthcare | Doctor consultation, Tests booking, Offers, Smart reminders, Refill option | $80,000 – $140,000+ | 6 – 8 months |
| Medlife | Pharmacy + Lab testing | Prescription upload, Delivery tracking, Lab tests | $60,000 – $110,000 | 4 – 6 months |
| Zeno Health | Generic medicine app | Discounted pricing, Search, Order management, Notifications | $50,000 – $90,000 | 3 – 5 months |
| CVS / Walgreens | US-based hybrid apps | Online pharmacy, Vaccine booking, Insurance, Chat with pharmacists | $120,000 – $200,000+ | 6 – 10 months |
Factors that Affect the Medicine Delivery App Development Cost
Before starting the development process, it’s essential to understand the major factors that impact the overall cost of building a medicine delivery app.
Let’s explore the main factors that can influence your budget, timeline, and the outcome of your app.
1. App Complexity and Features
The scope and functionality of your app are the biggest cost factors. A basic app with features like user registration, medicine search, and order placement will cost less than an advanced app with features such as real-time order tracking, AI-powered recommendations, teleconsultation, and multi-vendor support.
2. Platform Choice (iOS, Android, or Both)
Choosing the right platform or opting for both has a direct impact on development costs. Building for a single platform is more affordable, while developing a cross-platform or native app for both iOS and Android increases the workload, time, and cost. Always base your decision on your target audience’s preferred devices.
3. UI/UX Design
User experience plays an important role in user retention and satisfaction. A clean, user-friendly design with standard layouts is cost-effective, but if you’re aiming for a highly customized interface with advanced animations, micro-interactions, or 3D elements, the design cost will rise accordingly.
4. Development Team Location
Development rates vary by region. For example:
- North America and Western Europe: $100–$180/hour
- Eastern Europe: $40–$80/hour
- South Asia (India, Pakistan): $20–$50/hour
5. App Maintenance and Updates
Development doesn’t end at launch. Continuous maintenance, bug fixes, performance optimization, and regular updates are essential to ensure the app remains secure, up-to-date, and competitive. These recurring costs should be factored into your long-term budget.
Tips to Reduce the Medicine Delivery App Development Cost
If you’re looking to build a medicine delivery app without exceeding your budget, smart planning and strategic choices can make a big difference.
Below are proven tips to help you reduce development costs without compromising on quality.
1. Start with an MVP (Minimum Viable Product)
Instead of building a full-scale app from day one, begin with a basic version that includes only the core features. This allows you to launch faster, gather user feedback, and validate your idea while saving time and money. You can always expand functionality later based on your user needs.
2. Use Pre-Built Solutions or APIs
Rather than developing every feature from scratch, use pre-built modules, third-party APIs, or white-label solutions for functions like payment gateways, authentication, and maps. This will help you reduce development time and cost.
3. Optimize Development Processes
Adopt agile methodologies, maintain clear communication with your development team, and ensure proper planning and documentation. These practices minimize rework, improve efficiency, and help avoid unnecessary expenses during development.
4. Focus on Scalability from the Start
Design your app architecture to support future growth. Investing in scalable infrastructure early on can prevent costly overhauls later when user demand increases.
Ready-Made Solution vs. Custom App Development
Choosing between ready-made vs custom app development is the major decision that impacts your budget.
The table below shows the differences between a ready-made solution and custom app development to help you make a better decision.
| Factor | Ready-Made Solution | Custom App Development |
| Development Time | 1 – 4 weeks | 3 – 8 months |
| Initial Cost | Low to moderate ($5,000 – $25,000) | High ($30,000 – $150,000+) |
| Customization | Limited (basic design and features) | Fully customizable to fit your business model |
| Scalability | May be limited as your user base grows | Built to scale as your business expands |
| Ownership | License-based or subscription model | Full ownership of source code and IP |
| Maintenance and Support | Provided by the vendor (may be limited or paid) | Fully controlled by your in-house or outsourced team |
| Unique Branding | Often restricted due to template limitations | 100% custom branding, UI/UX tailored to your audience |
| Time to Market | Very fast | Takes longer but offers tailored results |
| Ideal For | Startups, small businesses with limited budgets | Enterprises, growing startups, or businesses with unique needs |
Why Build a Medicine Delivery App?
Building a medicine delivery app offers numerous advantages to both customers and businesses. Let’s look at them and understand why investing in this is the best decision.
| For Customers | For Businesses |
| Cost-Saving: It is the main benefit of medicine delivery apps. Customers can compare prices, avail discounts, and access generic alternatives, saving money on prescriptions. | Increase Visibility: A mobile app helps you reach a broader audience beyond your physical location, expanding your brand presence. |
| Faster Delivery: With real-time tracking and location-based services, medications can be delivered quickly and efficiently. | Increase Revenue: Online availability increases customer reach and order volume, directly contributing to higher profits. |
| Secure Payment Options: Apps offer multiple payment methods with secure encryption to ensure safe and hassle-free transactions. | Inventory and Order Management: Apps can be integrated with back-end systems to manage stock management, order processing, and reporting. |
| 24/7 Availability: Many apps offer round-the-clock ordering and deliver. Customers can order medicines anytime, even outside regular pharmacy hours, ensuring continuous access to essential healthcare. | Reduced Risk of Errors: Digital prescriptions and order histories minimize the chances of human errors in medication orders. |
| Online Doctor Consultation: Many apps offer integrated telehealth features, allowing users to consult doctors directly from their smartphones. | Improve Brand Image: A modern, intuitive, and responsive app reflects professionalism and builds customer trust. |
FAQs
1. How to create a medicine delivery app?
Below are some steps to help you create a medicine delivery app.
- Research and planning
- Select the business model
- Choose the app features
- Select the tech stack
- Start the app development
- Testing and launching
2. Is medical delivery profitable?
Yes, medical delivery is a profitable business. It has potential for strong revenue and growth, especially with the increasing demand for specialized delivery services in healthcare.
3. How to start a medication delivery service?
Starting a medication delivery service involves some steps, such as:
- Do research
- Choose a legal structure for your business
- Secure funding through loans, investors, or personal savings
- Build a partnership with local pharmacies
- Determine your delivery system
- Create the website or app
- Follow all the relevant laws and regulations
4. Are online medicine apps legal?
Yes, online medicine apps can be legal, but with important considerations. They must follow relevant laws and regulations, including those related to prescribing, data privacy, and the practice of medicine.
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Get A QuoteConclusion
Buying medicine online has become a common practice globally. According to GlobeNewswire, the turnover of online pharmacies is projected to reach $178.1 billion by 2026. This highlights the rapid shift toward digital health solutions.
If you're aware of the costs associated with developing a medication delivery app but need expert assistance in creating a high-quality application, consider consulting Enatega. Our experienced team has successfully developed over 100 apps that drive business growth.
Book a free demo with us today and benefit from the expertise of industry professionals.
About the author
Hudaibia Khalid is the creative force behind the blog—a maestro of words and ideas. Her distinctive style not only imparts wisdom but also leaves an indelible mark, transforming each post into a captivating journey through her unique perspective on the world.
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