Estimating the Cost to Develop an App Like Wayfair

Selling and buying online has become a huge trend over the past few years.

Ecommerce apps have played a key role in shaping this trend, offering smooth shopping experiences for everything from clothes, gadgets to even furniture.

Among these, apps like Wayfair, which specialize in furniture and home décor, stand out by catering to a small yet highly profitable market.

This booming industry has caught the attention of entrepreneurs worldwide, inspiring many to explore possibilities in the furniture ecommerce sector.

If you are interested in investing in this niche but wondering how much it costs to build an ecommerce app like Wayfair, you're in the right place.

The average cost to develop an app like Wayfair ranges between $20,000-$120,000 but it can vary as it totally depends on the features, frameworks, technologies, and other cost influencing factors integrated into the app.

This article breaks down all the essentials for estimating the cost of furniture store apps like Wayfair. Let’s dive in!

Wayfair: From Humble Beginnings to E-Commerce Giant

Wayfair, a top home decor and furniture shopping app, was co-founded by Niraj Shah and Steve Conine in August 2002.

Starting from a nursery in Conine's Boston home, they started CSN Stores, a collection of over 200 specialized sites selling products ranging from bar stools to bedroom furniture.

In September 2011, these sites were combined into Wayfair.com, streamlining their huge product range under a single name.

This strategic move pushed Wayfair into becoming one of the world's biggest online places for home furnishings and décor.

Wayfair's growth is obvious in its financial success.

According to Business of Apps, In 2023, the company made $12 billion in income, with the U.S. market contributing $10.4 billion.

However, it faced a net loss of $738 million that year.

Additionally, Wayfair had 21.8 million regular buyers in 2023, a drop from 31.1 million in 2021.

Wayfair is a major player in the growing U.S. e-commerce market.

It is among the top furniture and homeware online stores nationwide, ranking fourth behind industry giants Amazon, Walmart, and Home Depot.

This shows the company's dedication to enhancing the customer experience and growing its digital footprint.

From its modest beginnings, Wayfair has changed into a powerful force in the eCommerce sector, continually adapting to market demands and setting standards in the online home goods industry.

We have learnt sufficiently about the inspiring journey and growth of Wayfair. Now it's time to know how much it will cost to develop an app like Wayfair so that you replicate its success.

How Much Does It Cost To Build A Furniture Buying App Like Wayfair?

Creating an app like Wayfair, a renowned platform for furniture and home products, needs careful planning and a significant amount of money.

The cost to build an app like Wayfair changes based on factors like the complexity of the app, the desired features, and the location and skill of the developer.

On average, it costs between $20,000 and $120,000 to create an app like Wayfair. A simple app with key functions like product viewing, a shopping cart, and order tracking will cost less.

The cost can increase a lot if you add advanced features like virtual reality (AR) for seeing furniture, personalized suggestions, and complex transportation management systems.

The cost to develop an ecommerce app like Wayfair continues after the app is launched. Ongoing costs include maintaining the app, keeping the server, running marketing campaigns, and updating it to add new features or improve user experience.

To keep the mobile app development cost down, start by concentrating on the most important features and add more as your user base expands. Businesses looking to create a furniture shopping app like Wayfair should work closely with experienced developers to optimize their investment.

When figuring out how much does it cost to create an app like Wayfair, it's important to match your goals with your budget. This ensures the creation of a user-friendly and scalable e-commerce platform suited to your business needs.

Let’s move forward to analyse the parameters which determine the cost to make an app like Wayfair.

What are The Factors That Influence the Cost to Develop an App Like Wayfair?

Creating a furniture app requires evaluating multiple factors that directly impact the Wayfair like app development cost.

Understanding these factors helps you measure the cost to develop an app like Wayfair and create a mobile app tailored to your business needs.

1. App Features and Functionality

The range of features heavily impacts the cost to make a furniture store app like Wayfair.

Basic functions like product search, filters, and a shopping cart are cost-efficient, while advanced features like augmented reality (AR) for virtual furniture placement or AI-driven tips increase development costs.

Prioritizing must-have features during the initial part can help you handle the Wayfair clone app development cost effectively.

Feature	Description	Average Cost ($)
Product Catalog Management	Allows users to browse products with filters and categories.	$3,000 - $8,000
AR Furniture Preview	Enables users to visualize furniture in their space using AR.	$15,000 - $25,000
Advanced Search & Filters	Helps users find products quickly with filters like price, size, etc.	$4,000 - $8,000
User Profiles & Wishlists	Allows users to create profiles, save items, and manage purchases.	$3,000 - $6,000
Shopping Cart & Checkout	Provides a seamless process for adding items and completing orders.	$5,000 - $8,000
Secure Payment Integration	Supports multiple payment options like cards, wallets, and UPI.	$7,000 - $10,000
Order Tracking & Updates	Provides real-time updates on shipping and delivery status.	$6,000 - $12,000
Personalized Recommendations	Suggests items based on user preferences and browsing history.	$8,000 - $12,000
Customer Reviews & Ratings	Enables users to leave and view reviews for products.	$3,000 - $6,000
Push Notifications	Alerts users about deals, offers, and order updates.	$2,000 - $5,000

2. Platform Choice

iOS app development services, Android app development services, or both impacts the cost. Native development ensures optimal performance on each platform but doubles the development effort and cost.

Alternatively, cross-platform frameworks like Flutter can reduce expenses while still targeting a wider audience, helping control the cost to create an app like Wayfair.

Hybrid development can reduce costs but may compromise on native-like performance, whereas native development offers optimal quality at a higher cost.

Platform	Average Cost ($)
iOS	$20,000 - $50,000
Android	$20,000 - $50,000
Both (Native)	$40,000 - $100,000
Hybrid	$25,000 - $60,000
Web App	$15,000 - $30,000

3. UI/UX Design

A smooth and visually appealing interface is essential for a furniture shopping app.

Advanced designs with animations or unique navigation structures increase the Wayfair clone app development cost, while minimalist designs can keep expenses in check.

Investing in a user-friendly UI/UX design is crucial to create a lasting impression and justify the cost to develop a furniture shopping app like Wayfair.

Starting with a medium-level design for a balanced user experience and scale up to advanced features as your app gains traction.

Design Level	Elements Included	Average Cost ($)
Basic Design	Simple layout, minimal animations, basic color schemes.	5,000 - 10,000
Medium Design	Custom branding, improved visuals, interactive elements.	10,000 - 20,000
Advanced Design	High-quality graphics, AR integration, custom animations.	20,000 - 40,000

4. Backend Development

A scalable backend is essential to manage user data, product information, and real-time inventory updates.

Complex backends for features like transportation tracking or multi-vendor management add to the cost to create a furniture shopping app like Wayfair.

Cloud-based solutions like AWS can help optimize infrastructure costs and ensure scalability as the app grows. Hire dedicated developers as they not only ensure robust backend development but also maintain it after the launch.

Backend Component	Description	Average Cost ($)
Database Setup	Manages user data, product information, and transactions securely.	$8,000 - $15,000
Server Infrastructure	Ensures app scalability and reliability for multiple users.	$10,000 - $20,000
API Development	Connects frontend with backend systems for seamless communication.	$5,000 - $10,000
Admin Panel	Allows app owners to manage products, users, and orders effectively.	$7,000 - $12,000
Real-Time Updates	Enables live inventory and order tracking functionality.	$10,000 - $18,000
Load Balancing	Distributes traffic evenly to maintain app performance.	$5,000 - $10,000
Payment Gateway Backend	Secure processing of transactions for multiple payment methods.	$7,000 - $15,000
Notification System	Sends alerts and updates to users in real-time.	$4,000 - $8,000
Scalable Architecture	Supports future growth and large-scale user traffic.	$12,000 - $25,000

5. Third-Party Integrations

Integrating APIs for payment gateways, shipping services, and customer support tools increases the cost to develop an app similar to Wayfair.

For instance, adding real-time payment verification or multiple payment options can enhance user experience but also add to the Wayfair like app development cost.

Opting for cost-efficient APIs during the early stages can help balance expenses.

Integration Type	Description	Average Cost ($)
Payment Gateways	Enables secure transactions (e.g., Stripe, PayPal).	$5,000 - $10,000
Shipping APIs	Integrates delivery tracking and logistics (e.g., FedEx, DHL).	$3,000 - $8,000
Social Media Integration	Allows users to log in or share via social platforms.	$2,000 - $5,000
Analytics Tools	Tracks user behavior and app performance (e.g., Google Analytics).	$3,000 - $6,000
CRM Integration	Connects with customer relationship management tools.	$8,000 - $12,000
Cloud Storage Services	Stores user data and files securely (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud).	$4,000 - $10,000
Chatbot/AI Assistance	Offers AI-based customer support and interactions.	$10,000 - $20,000
Product Recommendation Engine	Suggests relevant products to users based on their preferences.	$10,000 - $18,000
Maps API	Integrates maps for location-based services (e.g., Google Maps).	$3,000 - $7,000
Third-Party Authentication	Enables secure login via platforms like Google or Facebook.	$2,000 - $4,000

6. Development Team’s Location

The geographical location of your development team significantly impacts the cost to develop an app like Wayfair.

Developers in regions like North America or Europe charge higher rates compared to those in Asia or Eastern Europe. H

Hiring a skilled offshore on-demand app development company can help lower the cost to create a furniture app like Wayfair without compromising quality.

Location	Hourly Rate ($)	Average Cost for Development ($)
North America	$100 - $200	$100,000 - $250,000
Western Europe	$80 - $150	$80,000 - $200,000
Eastern Europe	$40 - $80	$50,000 - $120,000
India	$20 - $40	$25,000 - $70,000
Southeast Asia	$20 - $50	$30,000 - $80,000

7. Advanced Technologies

Incorporating advanced technologies such as AI for personalized recommendations, AR for virtual try-ons, or blockchain for secure transactions increases the cost to build an app like Wayfair.

These technologies enhance the app’s functionality and user experience but come with higher development costs.

Technology	Description	Average Cost ($)
Augmented Reality (AR)	Enables users to visualize furniture in real-world spaces.	$10,000 - $30,000
Artificial Intelligence (AI)	Provides personalized recommendations and smarter search.	$8,000 - $15,000
Machine Learning (ML)	Enhances user experience by learning preferences.	$15,000 - $28,000
3D Product Visualization	Offers a detailed view of furniture products in 3D.	$20,000 - $35,000
Cloud Computing	Ensures scalable storage and app performance.	$10,000 - $25,000

8. Testing and Maintenance

Rigorous testing ensures your app is bug-free and user-friendly, but it’s an ongoing cost that adds to the cost to develop an app like Wayfair.

Additionally, regular updates and care are necessary to keep the app relevant, especially in the ever-evolving eCommerce area. Investing in automated testing tools can help handle these costs effectively.

Testing Type	Description	Average Cost ($)
Manual Testing	Human testers check the app for bugs and errors.	$3,000 - $10,000
Automated Testing	Uses scripts and tools to automate repetitive testing tasks.	$8,000 - $15,000
Performance Testing	Checks app’s speed, scalability, and stability.	$4,000 - $10,000
Maintenance (Ongoing)	Regular updates and bug fixes after launch	$10,000 - $20,000/year

Additional E-commerce-Specific Factors That Influence the Cost to Develop an App Like Wayfair

Incorporating these e-commerce-specific aspects ensures a robust app that aligns with user expectations and business goals, balancing functionality with the overall eCommerce app development cost.

1) Product Catalog and Management

For a furniture buying app like Wayfair, handling a vast product catalog with thorough descriptions, high-quality images, and categories is important.

Implementing robust product management tools raises the cost to create an e-commerce app like Wayfair, especially if features like bulk product uploads, advanced search filters, and inventory tracking are included.

A well-organized catalog improves user experience and drives conversions, making this investment useful.

Feature	Description	Average Cost ($)
Catalog Management System	Allows efficient organization and editing of product details.	$5,000 - $10,000
Product Search Filters	Filters products based on attributes like size, color, etc.	$3,000 - $7,000
Product Recommendations	Suggests products based on user preferences and behavior.	$8,000 - $12,000
Inventory Management	Tracks stock levels, orders, and deliveries.	$7,000 - $15,000
Product Variants	Allows multiple variants (size, color) for each product.	$5,000 - $10,000

2) Payment Gateways and Secure Transactions

E-commerce apps must combine multiple payment methods to cater to diverse user preferences.

Secure payment options like credit cards, wallets, and buy-now-pay-later services improve user trust but raise the cost to make a furniture buying app like Wayfair.

Implementing PCI-DSS-compliant payment systems and safe encryption methods ensures smooth transactions while adding to the cost.

Payment Gateway	Description	Average Cost ($)
Stripe	Popular gateway offering international support.	$2,000 - $6,000
PayPal	Global payment option, easy to integrate.	$2,500 - $8,000
Square	Provides point-of-sale (POS) services, integrates easily.	$3,000 - $9,000
Worldpay	Supports multiple currencies for international payments.	$3,000 - $10,000

3) Logistics and Order Tracking

Efficient transportation management, including order tracking and delivery timing, is important for ecommerce platforms.

Building APIs for real-time shipping updates and interaction with third-party transportation services adds to the cost to develop an app similar to Wayfair.

Enhanced transportation features can drive customer happiness but may increase beginning costs.

Feature	Description	Average Cost ($)
Real-time Tracking	Users can track the delivery of their orders in real-time.	$3,000 - $8,000
Shipping Cost Calculation	Automatically calculates shipping charges based on location.	$5,000 - $10,000
Order Management System	Tracks the entire order process from purchase to delivery.	$6,000 - $10,000

These factors definitely affect your Wayfair like app development but it doesn’t mean you can’t take measures to reduce the expense.

Planning your features and budget carefully ensures a well-rounded app that fits with your business goals.

Let’s move forward to know the secrets of how you can save your money by reducing the cost of your development.

Tips to Reduce Your Wayfair Like App Development Cost

By following these tips, you can greatly reduce the overall Wayfair clone app development cost and still create a high-quality app that meets your business goals.

► Start with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

Developing an MVP helps you start with just the core features for an app like Wayfair, allowing you to test the market and gather feedback. This way, you avoid spending excessively on unnecessary features originally.

Average Savings: You can save up to 30-40% of your development budget by building only important features first.

► Use Pre-designed UI Templates

Instead of making unique designs from the start, you can use pre-designed templates to cut down on design costs. Templates can help keep an aesthetic while greatly lowering the time and effort spent on UI/UX.

Average Savings: Pre-designed themes can save you up to 25-35% on design costs.

► Outsource to Affordable Regions

Outsourcing your Wayfair like app development to regions with lower hourly rates, like India or Eastern Europe, can greatly cut costs without losing quality. You can still hire specialized writers who are experienced and skilled.

Average Savings: By finding developers in affordable areas, you can save up to 40-50% of the total development cost.

► Opt for Cross-Platform Development

Instead of creating different apps for iOS and Android, go for cross-platform development using tools like Flutter or React Native. This way, you only need to develop one app that works across both devices, reducing your Wayfair clone app development cost.

Average Savings: Cross-platform development can lower development costs by 30-40%.

► Choose a Simple Backend Structure

Start with a basic server system and scale it as needed based on user growth. Cloud-based options like AWS or Firebase allow you to pay only for what you use and avoid expensive startup costs.

Average Savings: Opting for an easier system can save you 20-30% of your total development budget.

► Use Open Source Libraries and Tools

Open source tools and packages can be incredibly helpful in cutting down development time and costs. Many pre-built solutions for features like payment connection, goods management, and security are available and free to use.

Average Savings: Using open-source tools can save you up to 15-25% of your app development costs.

► Limit the Number of Features

Initially, you might be tempted to pack your app with advanced features right from the start, but it's more cost-effective to focus on the basics first.

Features like virtual reality, AI suggestions, or unique payment solutions can be added later.

Average Savings: Cutting down on advanced features can save you up to 20-30% of the total development cost.

► Choose the Right Technology Stack

Selecting the right technologies for your Wayfair clone app is important in terms of development speed and cost. Using technologies that are easy to integrate and widely backed can lower both development time and long-term maintenance costs.

Average Savings: Opting for the right tech stack can save up to 15-25% of your budget.

With careful planning and resource management, you can develop an app similar to Wayfair without pushing your budget.

How JPLoft Will Help You To Develop Your Dream Furniture Shopping App Like WayFair?

At JPLoft, we specialize in turning your eCommerce app ideas into reality with a mix of innovation and experience.

Our team of skilled developers focuses on providing user-friendly, feature-rich apps suited to your business needs.

If it’s easy payment integrations, advanced search options, or real-time order tracking, we ensure every detail is carefully made.

We are an experienced furniture store app development company, using cutting-edge technologies to create scalable and secure solutions.

From initial planning to post-launch support, we are dedicated to offering end-to-end services to help you succeed in the competitive digital market.

Partner with JPLoft to develop an app that not only meets your standards but exceeds them, ensuring a delightful experience for your customers and a successful business for you.

Wrapping Up

Developing an app like Wayfair offers vast possibilities to tap into the growing eCommerce market, especially in the area of furniture and home decor.

However, knowing the cost to develop a furniture buying app like Wayfair is important for aligning your budget with your business goals.

From app features and UI/UX design to server development and advanced connections, every factor plays a vital role in determining the overall investment.

By focusing on important features initially and eventually scaling up, you can effectively manage your budget without compromising quality.

Collaborating with a reliable development partner like JPLoft ensures you get a strong, scalable, and user-friendly solution suited to your vision.

So, if you are ready to create a furniture app like Wayfair and offer your customers an amazing shopping experience, start planning today. The eCommerce business is ready for your unique idea to shine!