The 28 Best App Developers in Chicago

Chicago is becoming an increasingly important tech hub, and is full of world class commercial and technical talent. There are many options if you're looking for a Chicago app developer, and it can be tough to choose which is right for your project!

To help out, we've made this roundup of the 28 best app developers in Chicago.

We chose these by researching the options on directories like Clutch, and evaluating them on criteria like:

  • Mobile app development focus
  • Portfolios & past projects
  • Reputation and client reviews

We used our own expertise and experience in app development projects to make these recommendations, and we feel confident that each agency listed is capable, competent and professional.

Later in the article we're going to explain our platform, MobiLoud, and explain why it's a better option for most businesses than any app development agency.

Let's go.

Hartford Design, Inc
Hourly Rate:
$
49
-
$
99
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
5000
-
$
10000

Hartford Design is a graphic design and branding practice based in Chicago. They offer services in cross-media branding and corporate identity, annual reports, marketing collateral systems, web sites, interactive media, ads, and packaging. They have expertise in branding, graphic design, mobile app development, and web development.

"Hartford Design is a Chicago-based graphic design and branding practice that brings intellect and passion to the world’s most respected companies’ branding and communication needs"
-
,
Check them out:
Mercova Media LLC
Hourly Rate:
$
100
-
$
149
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
5000
-
$
10000

Mercova Media LLC is a digital marketing agency that prides itself on providing quality service to clients. They aim to build strong relationships with clients and prioritize delivering exceptional service. They offer services such as custom software development, mobile app development, social media marketing, and web development. They have received positive feedback from clients in various industries, such as wellness & fitness, consumer products, legal, and education.

"They have our best interests in mind." By Owner, Hippie Hemp
-
Lance Kreck
,
Owner, Hippie Hemp
Check them out:
Ai2
Hourly Rate:
$
250
-
$
300
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
10000
-
$
20000

Ai2 has been providing mobile order management solutions to wholesale distributors for over three decades. They offer custom software development, e-commerce development, enterprise app modernization, and mobile app development services.

"For over three decades, Ai2 has been the market leader providing superior mobile order management solutions to wholesale distributors of high velocity goods"
-
,
Check them out:
TangoCode
Hourly Rate:
$
100
-
$
149
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
50000
-
$
75000

TangoCode is a custom software development company that specializes in accelerating technology adoption and innovating with machine learning and AI. They have expertise in mobile app development, web development, IoT development, and digital strategy. They have worked with clients in healthcare, real estate, automotive, energy, advertising, and more.

"I believe their flexibility and responsiveness are the most impressive aspects of TangoCode." By COO, Healthcare Company
-
Steven Wyrsch
,
COO, Healthcare Company
Check them out:
TriPoints Consulting
Hourly Rate:
$
49
-
$
99
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
10000
-
$
20000

TriPoints Consulting offers IT Consulting & Application Development Services. They serve venture capital firms, startups, mid-sized companies, and multi-billion dollar corporations in North America & Europe. They have a team of 25+ highly specialized developers in Eastern Europe and US-based Project Leaders. They provide cost-effective, agile solutions with a time to market advantage.

"The professionals at TriPoints Consulting have provided IT Consulting & Application Development Services to venture capital firms, startups, mid-sized companies, and multi-billion dollar enterprises"
-
,
Check them out:
TekMutants
Hourly Rate:
$
25
-
$
49
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
5000
-
$
10000

TekMutants is focused on solving business challenges and meeting customer demand through technology. They have invested in their human resources, technology infrastructure, and developer community to bring innovation to their customers. They offer custom software development, e-commerce development, mobile app development, and web development services.

"We are a futuristic company that has worked from startups to large enterprises who are looking to solve their business challenges and growing customer demand through technology"
-
,
Check them out:
ConnectMedia Ventures
Hourly Rate:
$
100
-
$
149
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
5000
-
$
10000

ConnectMedia is a technology solutions firm for online businesses. The company has expertise in software development, systems design, data management, and online security/compliance. They create software and technology solutions for companies in various industries, including finance, healthcare, affiliate marketing, and social media. They offer services such as custom software development, mobile app development, web design, and cybersecurity.

"The team behind ConnectMedia brings decades of successful public company and entrepreneurial experience. Our leadership team and technical engineers have spent over 15 years in software development, systems design, data management and online security / compliance serving companies across many industries"
-
,
Check them out:
Devbridge
Hourly Rate:
$
100
-
$
149
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
250000
-
$

Devbridge is a technology partner for Global 2000 companies seeking digital transformation. They built custom software that delivers measurable results for hospitals, logistics companies, and banks with their software solutions. Their service lines include application platforms, mobile app development, UX/UI design, web development, and custom software development.

"Data-informed strategy. Dedicated teams. Products that deliver results. Devbridge is a technology partner for forward-thinking Global 2000 companies looking to activate digital transformation"
-
,
Check them out:
Chicago Software Solutions
Hourly Rate:
$
100
-
$
149
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
10000
-
$
20000

Chicago Software Solutions is a Chicago-based custom software development and technology consulting company with over 15 years of experience. They work with clients of all sizes and industries, providing reliable and efficient technology solutions. Their service lines include application platforms, frameworks and CMS, mobile focus, mobile platforms, programming and scripting.

“We got a lot done in the period of time, and I was satisfied with everything.” By Project Coordinator, Education Nonprofit
-
Vickie Moseley
,
Project Coordinator, Education Nonprofit
Check them out:
Bytecraft LLC
Hourly Rate:
$
100
-
$
149
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
5000
-
$
10000

Bytecraft is a Chicago-based team of experts and software engineers that offer tech solutions for businesses and startups. They provide services such as mobile app development, UX/UI design, web development, and web design. They have worked on projects for a nonprofit organization, a healthcare company, and an agency in the other industry.

"I got the sense that they shared the same excitement about the project!" By Owner & Founder, Recreate City Photo Hunt
-
Steve Klingbeil
,
Owner & Founder, Recreate City Photo Hunt
Check them out:
Tandem
Hourly Rate:
$
150
-
$
199
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
100000
-
$
150000

Tandem is a strategy, design, and technology partner that delivers custom software solutions. They use a unique process that involves engaging with customers, researchers, engineers, and designers to approach problems from different perspectives. They have experience in custom software development, mobile app development, digital strategy, and UX/UI design. They have worked with clients in various industries including telecommunications, manufacturing, retail, and education.

"If any issues came up, they were quickly resolved." By Director, Epiq Solutions
-
Gary Schluckbier
,
Director, Epiq Solutions
Check them out:
Kitely Tech
Hourly Rate:
$
150
-
$
199
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
20000
-
$
50000

KitelyTech is a technology firm specializing in custom software development, mobile application development, web design and development, branding, and SEO services. They have experience in various industries, including oil and gas, healthcare, and consumer packaged goods. The company has received positive reviews for their quality, schedule adherence, cost-efficiency, and willingness to refer.

"Whatever the issue is, they have someone who can address it." By Founder, Moshoboga
-
Kyle Franklin
,
Founder, Moshoboga
Check them out:
VARTEQ
Hourly Rate:
$
49
-
$
99
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
50000
-
$
75000

VARTEQ is a technology consulting and development company focused on delivering reliable code and building long-term relationships with customers. They offer remote software development teams covering a wide range of technologies and industry-specific experiences. Their service lines include web development, IoT development, and mobile app development.

"They have been providing timely and high-quality technical support for our internal products and websites." By Founder, DNA325
-
Julia Koinak
,
Founder, DNA325
Check them out:
EightBit Studios
Hourly Rate:
$
150
-
$
199
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
50000
-
$
75000

Eight Bit Studios offers UX, design, and delivery services to help organizations build apps that people love. They have a team of 10-49 employees and were founded in 2009 and their service lines include custom software development, mobile app development, and UX/UI design. They have worked with clients in various industries, including business services, nonprofit, arts and entertainment, and financial services.

“I’d never worked with a company that was so good at building rapport with their clients.” By Program Manager, UL
-
Carissa Olsen
,
Program Manager, UL
Check them out:
iCrossing
Hourly Rate:
$
150
-
$
199
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
10000
-
$
20000

iCrossing is a global digital marketing agency that helps brands find and connect with their customers. They offer a range of digital marketing services including paid search, SEO, web development, social media, and analytics. Their client base includes companies like Coca-Cola, FedEx, LEGO, LG Electronics, and Williams-Sonoma. Their service lines include mobile app development, custom software development, web design, and web development.

"iCrossing is a global digital marketing agency that combines talent and technology to help world-class brands find and connect with their customers."
-
,
Check them out:
CodeBru
Hourly Rate:
$
100
-
$
149
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
10000
-
$
20000

CodeBru is a custom software development agency focused on web and app development for B2B clients. Their service lines offered include mobile app development, custom software development, web development, and e-commerce development. They have worked on projects in industries such as sports and software for clients in Berlin, Germany and Washington, District of Columbia.

"They were easy to communicate with and delivered on time." By Owner, Fabiennescharer
-
Fabienne Schärer
,
Owner, Fabiennescharer
Check them out:
Hashrocket
Hourly Rate:
$
150
-
$
199
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
20000
-
$
50000

Hashrocket is a design and development shop that uses pairs programming and an Agile process. They have a focus on web development, mobile app development, and e-commerce development. They have worked on projects in various industries including sports, design, HR, IT, and retail. They have expertise in technologies such as React, Elixir, Ruby on Rails, and more.

“The tools Hashrocket developed have delivered about 100% growth in almost every metric that we’re tracking.” By Product Manager, Sports Team Management Tool
-
Allison Goodman
,
Product Manager, Sports Team Management Tool
Check them out:
Punchkick Interactive
Hourly Rate:
$
150
-
$
199
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
10000
-
$
20000

Punchkick is a digital innovation company that specializes in custom software development, mobile apps, web experiences, user experience design, and business analytics. They keep brands competitive in the mobile landscape by integrating lean UX design, user research and testing, and strong mobile strategy into their development process. Their service lines include mobile app development, custom software development, web development, market research, and UX/UI design. Some of their key clients include a global retail company, an insurance company, and a healthcare company.

"Punchkick Interactive’s customer service, passion, and focus is what helps us hit our goals." By Global Talent Engagement, Global Brand
-
Anonymous
,
Global Talent Engagement, Global Brand
Check them out:
Foxbox Digital
Hourly Rate:
$
49
-
$
99
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
50000
-
$
75000

Foxbox Digital is a digital product agency based in Chicago. They work with a range of clients, from Fortune 50 companies to startups, to design, develop, and deliver digital experiences. They offer services in custom software development, mobile app development, UX/UI design, and web development. They have worked with clients in industries such as real estate, financial services, sports, and education.

“Everyone on the Foxbox Digital team is very responsive.” By CPO, Axis Group
-
Jerry DiMaso
,
CPO, Axis Group
Check them out:
Rightpoint
Hourly Rate:
$
150
-
$
199
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
250000
-
$

Rightpoint is an expert in digital products and innovation. They have a strong focus on user experience and offer services in application platforms, frameworks and CMS, mobile platforms, and programming & scripting. They have worked with a variety of clients in different industries, including construction, distribution, healthcare, and advertising & marketing.

"Rightpoint brought our processes into the modern age without a hitch and implemented the system perfectly." By David Architectural Metals, Inc.
-
Anonymous
,
David Architectural Metals, Inc.
Check them out:
Cultivate Brands
Hourly Rate:
$
150
-
$
199
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
20000
-
$
50000

Cultivate is a branding agency based in Chicago and Bozeman. They offer services in brand strategy, website design, app design, photography, video production, and creative marketing. They focus on branding, frameworks and CMS, and mobile platforms. They have also worked on projects in various industries including food and beverages, nonprofit, construction, and others.

“Cultivate strived to understand what our customers were asking for.” By CEO, Albie's Foods
-
Matt Blackmon
,
CEO, Albie's Foods
Check them out:
Calibrate Software
Hourly Rate:
$
49
-
$
99
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
20000
-
$
50000

Calibrate Software is a Chicago-based company that specializes in designing and building websites, dashboards, mobile apps, and enterprise tools. They have core competencies in areas such as payments, eCommerce, scheduling, and content management. They offer services in mobile app development, UX/UI design, web development, and web design. They have worked with clients in various industries including consumer products, eCommerce, wellness and fitness, financial services, and education.

“I really love how Calibrate Software is very passionate about the project.” By Digital Experiences Manager, Wilson Sporting Goods
-
Mike Greeby
,
Digital Experiences Manager, Wilson Sporting Goods
Check them out:
iPrism Technologies
Hourly Rate:
$
25
-
$
49
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
1000
-
$
5000

iPrism Technologies is a leading web and mobile apps development company. They offer native mobile application development and e-commerce website development. They have worked with clients in various industries including carpooling services, retail, food delivery, hospitality, and more. They have developed mobile apps for carpooling services, finding deals from nearby stores, on-demand food delivery, hostel search, GPS tracking of buses, online exams, and revenue tracking for consumer products.

"Their manager worked long hours tirelessly when we needed to meet deadlines." By Manager, Food Safari
-
Imsu Jamir
,
Manager, Food Safari
Check them out:
Atomic Object
Hourly Rate:
$
150
-
$
199
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
20000
-
$
50000

Atomic Object is a company that creates custom software products for various platforms. They have offices in Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Chicago, and Raleigh-Durham. They offer services including mobile app development and custom software development and worked with clients in industries such as gaming, nonprofit, software, and education.

“They’ve been an integral partner of ours for about three years now.” By Digital Experiences Manager, Wilson Sporting Goods
-
David Robinson
,
Director of Production, Pixelberry Studios
Check them out:
Lakeview Labs
Hourly Rate:
$
100
-
$
149
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
10000
-
$
20000

Chicago-based app agency, Lakeview Labs, was founded in 2013. They offer services in mobile app development, custom software development, enterprise app modernization, and web development. Their clients include Nande, CURE, Little Nugget Co, Octothorpe Plus, Checkli, inRentive, Ezome, and a fitness startup.

"They were genuinely invested in the success of our app and they became trusted partners during the process." By Founder, Nande
-
Anonymous
,
Founder, Nande
Check them out:
TXI
Hourly Rate:
$
250
-
$
300
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
50000
-
$
75000

TXI is a digital product innovation firm founded in 2002. They focus on blending product, design, and engineering across various platforms. They offer services in custom software development, product design, and UX/UI design. They have received positive reviews from clients in various industries such as nonprofit, education, and healthcare.

"The collaborative and positive nature was fantastic." By Business Systems & Analytics Mgr., Omaha Zoological Society
-
Zach Mellender
,
Business Systems & Analytics Manager, Omaha Zoological Society
Check them out:
RedFoundry
Hourly Rate:
$
150
-
$
199
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
50000
-
$
75000

Red Foundry is a mobile application design and development consulting firm. They work with entrepreneurs and startups to launch their mobile-enabled businesses and help established corporations build mobile products for digital transformation. They offer mobile app development, application management and support, UX/UI design, web development, and more. They have worked with clients in various industries, including healthcare, education, and agriculture.

“Red Foundry has been one of the best service providers I’ve ever worked with.” By Division Manager, Holding Company
-
Anonymous
,
Division Manager, Holding Company
Check them out:
Zazz
Hourly Rate:
$
49
-
$
99
/hr
Average Project Size:
$
20000
-
$
50000

Zazz is an American digital agency specializing in software design and development. They prioritize the user experience and offer end-to-end services for startups, SMEs, and enterprises. They offer services such as application testing, custom software development, graphic design, mobile app development, UX/UI design, web design, and web development. They have received positive reviews for their quality, schedule, cost, and willingness to refer.

"Zazz was proactive in ensuring that the developed product met the quality standards and was free of bugs or errors." By Founder, Smile and Company
-
Morgan Sylvain
,
Founder, Smile and Company
Check them out:

So there you have it, the 28 best app developers in Chicago. It's a pretty impressive selection with a lot of technical talent and experience. However, there are other options you should consider before going with one of these agencies.

The key question - do you even need them?

As we're about to explain, probably not.

Do you really need a Chicago app development agency?

As we've seen, there are plenty of app developers in Chicago. They'll be happy to chat about your project and are all capable of building what you want - providing you have the budget and are open to a few compromises.

These app developers have their downsides though. For a start, as you can see, they aren't cheap.

The average comes in at $100 per hour, so even to build a fairly simple set of apps you're looking at $50k+. They also tend to be busy with work, and even if they can start working on your apps right away - it'll most likely be 3-6 months to get a first version shipped (minimum). Throughout the process you'll need to work closely with them, checking in on work and communicating with the team.

This is all worth it, of course, to get great apps. But is it necessary?

No - not if you already have a website, online store, or web app.

MobiLoud: More Affordable (and Effective) than any App Developer

If you already have a working app for the web, you don't need a  app development agency to build you iOS and Android apps from scratch. You can save tens of thousands of dollars - and months of waiting - by using MobiLoud.

MobiLoud converts your existing website, online store, or web app into native mobile apps in just weeks, for a fraction of the cost of an agency.

There's no long wait times, no six-figure invoices, and no need to compromise on your apps' features and functionalities. MobiLoud apps:

  • Allow you to reuse everything from your website or web app (all features, plugins, integrations)
  • Blend the best of the web with the best of native app technology
  • Require minimum time and zero technical skill to manage

Compared to a Chicago app development agency, using MobiLoud can easily save you 90% of the cost and months of effort.

We can build you any kind of app, so long as you have an existing website or web app to provide the content. We've built thousands of apps over the years, for:

And pretty much any other vertical you can think of!

Our model is affordable and manageable for even small startup businesses, while remaining powerful and scalable enough for a global brand. Take a look at some of our app examples and case studies.

It doesn't matter whether you're located in Chicago or anywhere else. Our global team are always just an email (or a call) away to support your business.

Ready to learn more? The process starts with a no-strings demo, where one of our team will explain the entire process to you.

Let's get your brand on the app stores.....

Book a Demo Call Today

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