Hiring an iOS Developer

Apps make daily life easier: from editing photos to online shopping. Behind many of those apps for iPhone and iPad is an iOS developer. These developers not only build the technical foundation but also think along about usability and smart features. They transform ideas into stable, fast apps that align well with Apple devices’ style and capabilities. They often work in teams, alongside designers and testers: to ensure everything works seamlessly, from the first tap to the last swipe.

If you want to bring in an iOS developer, this can often be done on an hourly basis. This is ideal for evolving projects or when you want flexible scaling. Depending on your needs, you can choose a freelancer or someone who joins your team long-term.

• Beginner iOS developers usually cost between €30 and €50 per hour. They handle smaller tasks and are still learning on the job.
• A mid-level developer (2–5 years of experience) typically charges €50 to €100 per hour and independently handles major parts of an app.
• Senior developers, with extensive experience, may charge €100 to €150 per hour. They bring in-depth technical knowledge, lead projects, and solve complex issues.

Sometimes, a fixed price per project is more convenient; especially if the end goal is clear and your budget is tight. In that case, prices can range from a few thousand euros for a simple app to €50,000 or more for a complex, custom solution.

At 3Bird, we offer hourly rates starting at €25–€30 and provide flexible options.

A successful app requires a skilled iOS developer. Whether you’re building a brand-new app or developing an existing iOS app further, the right developer makes all the difference in quality, user experience, and execution. But how do you find someone who matches your vision, goals, and the specific demands of the Apple platform?

Step 1: define the profile

Start by identifying what your iOS project actually needs. This helps you search more effectively for a developer with the right technical and interpersonal skills. Think beyond experience with Swift, Objective-C, or Xcode—also consider soft skills like communication, independence, and problem-solving. Ask yourself: which Apple technologies will be used? What experience level suits the complexity of your project? Is industry knowledge important? What is the desired timeline? A clear profile increases your chances of finding an iOS developer who truly fits your needs.

Step 4: Onboarding

A smooth onboarding process makes a big difference in starting a productive collaboration. It helps the developer become part of the team quickly and contribute effectively from day one. Key points to consider:

• System and tool preparation: Ensure Xcode, Apple Developer account access, and other necessary tools are set up before the developer starts.
• Team introduction: Introduce the developer to the team and clearly explain the project goals and their role.
• Technical briefing: Provide specific training on the technologies and Apple frameworks used in your project.
• Process instructions: Clarify internal processes, such as code reviews, deployment, and publishing workflows.
• Ongoing support: Assign a mentor or contact person to guide and support the developer during the first few weeks.

Of course, you could just partner with 3Bird. A simple way to quickly find a skilled app developer.

Our iOS developers work from our office in Kathmandu, Nepal, and are fully integrated members of our team. They are not external freelancers but part of our structured organization and workflows. Through close cooperation with our local CTOs, communication is clear, and collaboration with our clients runs smoothly. This ensures your project (despite the distance) is executed efficiently and to a high standard.