How much does it cost to build custom software?
Custom software is priced on scope, not a sticker. As a 2026 benchmark, a focused internal tool runs roughly £15k–£40k, a mid-size system like a CRM or client portal £40k–£150k, and a large platform £150k+ — US figures sit higher on the same shape. The honest figure for your build comes from scoping it.
Bands from 2026 market pricing guides (UK & US, 2026). Most SMB projects land £25k–£150k; rates run ~£80–£150/hr in the UK and $120–$200/hr in the US.
What you pay, by project type.
A guide, not a quote — the real number comes from scope.
| Project type | Indicative band (£ / $) | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Internal tool / MVP | £15k–£40k · $15k–$75k | A dashboard or tool that replaces a spreadsheet |
| Mid-size system | £40k–£150k · $75k–$250k | Custom CRM, client portal, ops platform with integrations |
| Large / enterprise | £150k+ · $250k+ | Multi-role platform, ERP-class system, AI platform |
Five things that decide the number.
- Scope & complexity. A five-screen tool is not a multi-role platform.
- Integrations. Each system you connect adds real work — often £3k–£8k per integration.
- Custom vs configured. Bespoke logic and design sit above a template.
- Data & compliance. Sensitive data, GDPR, audit trails add engineering.
- Ongoing care. Hosting and maintenance are a separate line — see retainer vs project.
Don't ask the price. Ask what it replaces.
A £40k build that removes two admin hires or a process that bleeds margin pays for itself in the first year. Set any band against what the system saves or earns — and whether to build it at all is a separate question (build vs buy).
Common questions.
How much does custom software cost to build?
As a 2026 benchmark: a focused internal tool roughly £15k–£40k, a mid-size system (CRM, portal, ops platform) £40k–£150k, and a large platform £150k+. US figures are higher on the same shape. The exact number depends on scope.
Why do custom software quotes vary so much?
Because 'custom software' spans a one-screen tool to a multi-role platform. Scope, integrations, bespoke logic, data and compliance, and ongoing care all move the figure.
How much does custom software cost in the UK?
UK projects run from about £15k for a focused internal tool to £500k+ for a large enterprise platform, with most SMB projects landing between £25k and £150k.
What is the ongoing cost after the build?
Maintenance typically runs 15–20% of the build cost per year — hosting, fixes, security and small enhancements. A managed retainer folds this into one predictable fee.
How do I get an accurate price for my project?
Through a short scoping step that turns your goals into a defined build. We size it against your real requirements for free before you commit anything.
Is custom software worth the cost?
It is when it replaces costly manual work, removes a growth bottleneck, or does something off-the-shelf can't. The test is what it returns — see our page on custom software ROI and payback.
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