How Much Money Do Mobile Apps Make?

Wondering, “If there’s anyone who makes money with the app?” Of course, yes! You’ve probably heard of mobile apps striking it rich overnight, making millions of dollars. 

Some mobile apps are generating more than any industry. YouTube alone is generating over $8.93 billion, representing a 10.3% year-over-year increase. And guess what? We are not even counting subscription services like YouTube TV and YouTube Premium. 

No doubt, the mobile app market is vast, with apps competing aggressively for attention. But the real question everyone is curious about: Can you make money from an app?

Whether you are a developer, a startup, an established business, or someone wondering if your app could be a goldmine too. Dive into this guide to learn how much money apps make—and the critical factors that determine their earning power.

What Are Apps Actually Earning Today? (Real Numbers)

Let’s find out the top-grossing apps in 2025:

The reality is that mobile app earnings vary significantly depending on the type of app, its target audience, and the methods it uses to generate revenue. 

• Top Apps: The top 1% of apps rake in millions each month - social media giants like TikTok, Instagram, and Fortnite. These apps have a massive user base, utilizing smart monetization strategies that include ads, subscriptions, and in-app purchases. 
• Mid-tier Apps: A popular app with a solid but smarter audience might earn anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 per month. For instance, a fully functional fitness app with a loyal user base can generate a steady income without being a household name. 
• Most Apps: The vast majority of apps earn less than $1,000 per month, often because they struggle to attract or retain users, or haven’t implemented any monetization strategy. 

Here’s an example: A simple puzzle game like Block Blast might get 100,000 downloads but make only a few thousand dollars because it relies solely on ads, which pay per view or click. 

Meanwhile, a niche productivity app charging $ 5 per month with just 5,000 subscribers can generate $25,000 per month, demonstrating that quality and a monetization strategy often outperform download numbers.

If you also want to know how to develop an app and make money, tap below and schedule a free 30-minute consultation. 

Top Monetization Strategies: How Do Mobile Apps Make Money?

Understanding how do you develop an app is just the beginning—but knowing how to integrate effective monetization strategies is what truly drives profit. Below, we’ve outlined the top-proven ways to monetize your app and turn it into a revenue-generating machine. Let’s dive in:

1. Freemium Apps

What’s the smartest way to attract users to your app, especially when you're new in the market? Offer something for free.

According to InspiringApps, freemium apps contributed significantly to global mobile app revenue in 2024, with total earnings reaching $522.7 billion worldwide.

That’s why both startups and established businesses rely on the freemium model—a combination of “free” + “premium”—to grow and retain their audience.

Here’s how it works: apps like Spotify or Dropbox let users access core features at no cost, while offering advanced functionalities, ad-free experiences, or extra storage under a paid plan. This gives users a taste of the product, builds trust, and encourages them to upgrade when they’re ready.

If you’re launching a new app, offering a free version or trial with basic features is a proven way to drive downloads and attract a broader user base. It lowers the entry barrier and helps you gain traction quickly in a competitive market.

2.In-App Advertising

Now, if you're looking to turn free users into paying ones, in-app advertising should be your next move. 

In fact, the global in-app advertising market generated $165.88 billion in advertising revenue in 2024 and is projected to skyrocket to $533.92 billion by 2029, proving it's not just effective—it's the future of app monetization.

Whether it’s banner ads, interstitials, rewarded videos, playable ads, or native ads, this strategy enables you to earn revenue without charging users directly, making it ideal for freemium apps seeking to scale quickly while maintaining a free experience.

3. Subscription Model

Content-driven and service-based apps typically prefer subscription models. Why? Because it ensures a steady, recurring revenue stream while keeping users engaged over time. 

Apps like Tinder, Mint, and Snapchat have mastered this strategy. They offer users access to premium features in exchange for a recurring fee. Whether it’s enhanced dating apps such Tinder (like Tinder Plus or Gold), advanced financial tools and insights on Mint, or exclusive content and customisation options on Snapchat (via Snapchat+), these platforms provide continuous value that encourages users to subscribe on a weekly, monthly, or annual basis.

This model works exceptionally well when you’re consistently delivering value. For app owners, it not only boosts customer lifetime value (CLTV) but also provides more predictable income that’s ideal for scaling operations and planning.

4. In-App Purchases

In-app purchases (IAPs) are a powerful tool for monetizing both free and paid apps, particularly in gaming, lifestyle, and productivity categories.

Here’s how it works: users download your app for free, but pay for additional content, digital goods, or enhanced features within the app. Think game boosters, avatar upgrades, virtual coins, or even access to premium tools in productivity apps.

This strategy leverages user behavior and psychology, offering optional yet enticing add-ons that enhance the app experience. It’s a flexible and user-friendly way to drive revenue without making payment a barrier to entry.

5. Paid Apps

While less common in today’s freemium-dominated world, paid apps can still be highly profitable, especially if you offer niche value or a unique utility.

With this model, users pay a one-time fee to download the app. It’s straightforward and transparent—no ads, no upsells, just a clean product experience from day one.

However, to succeed with a paid app, you need a strong value proposition, great reviews, and ideally, some brand trust already built. Apps in categories like productivity, education, and professional tools often perform well with this strategy.

6. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is a subtle yet effective monetization strategy where you promote third-party products or services within your app and earn a commission for each sale or lead generated through your referrals.

This approach works best for apps that produce content, offer recommendations, or help users discover products, such as blogs, fitness apps, or shopping assistants. For example, a fitness app might promote supplements or workout gear, while a personal finance app could link to offers for credit cards or insurance.

It’s a win-win—you add value to users by recommending useful products and earn revenue without charging your users directly.

Which Type of Apps Makes More Money? 

Some apps instantly become profit-generating machines, while others struggle even to survive. 

Why is it so? 

It’s because specific categories outperform others in terms of profitability, user demand, and monetization model. 

Here’s the breakdown of the most profitable types of mobile apps – and why they lead the pack:

1. Gaming Apps

Mobile games dominate app revenue charts worldwide. Interestingly, mobile games earn money through in-app purchases and advertisements. 

Top mobile game app that generate the most revenue include Honor of Kings, Monopoly GO, Royal Match, and PUBG Mobile. 

Games offer addictive, repeat-play experiences that encourage users to spend on upgrades, lives, or virtual goods, creating continuous revenue streams.

2. Subscription-Based Apps

If you’re wondering: "Are subscription-based apps profitable?" Well Yes!

Subscription-based apps generate the highest revenue and typically belong to the social media, entertainment, and lifestyle categories. 

Leading examples include Netflix, Spotify, Calm, Headspace, and Peloton. These apps have built thriving businesses through recurring subscriptions. 

For instance, Netflix with its video streaming platform, Spotify with its music streaming service, Calm & Headspace offering guided meditation, and Peloton, which combines fitness equipment with a subscription-driven workout experience.

3. Social Media and Content Platforms

Social media platform like TikTok and Instagram generate substantial revenue through advertising and brand partnerships. 

With their massive active user bases, these platforms are highly attractive to marketers aiming to reach specific demographics, making ad placements extremely profitable.

In general, social and content-driven platforms monetize through three primary methods: advertising, subscriptions, and data monetization. Advertising remains the dominant revenue stream, as businesses pay to display targeted ads to users. 

Some platforms also offer subscription models that unlock premium features or exclusive content. Additionally, data monetization plays a role, where anonymized user data is analyzed to generate insights that can be sold to other companies, while adhering to privacy regulations.

4. Finance and Payment Apps

Finance and payment apps are emerging as one of the most profitable categories in the mobile app market. With the growing shift toward digital banking, investing, and contactless payments, apps in this space have seen a surge in both downloads and user engagement.

Apps like Cash App, Venmo, Revolut, and Robinhood monetize through transaction fees, premium features, and sometimes interest or investment gains. Their convenience and accessibility fuel high user adoption and frequent usage.

• Transaction fees for sending, receiving, or converting currency

• Premium subscriptions (like Cash App’s Boost or Robinhood Gold)

• Stock and crypto trading fees or margins

• Interest on deposits and uninvested funds

• Interchange revenue from debit cards linked to app accounts

According to Statista, the global mobile payment transaction value reached over $2.1 trillion in 2024 and is expected to surpass $3.5 trillion by 2027. Similarly, fintech apps accounted for 18 of the top 50 most downloaded apps globally in 2024, underscoring the growing trust and adoption among users.

5.Health & Fitness Apps

Health and Fitness Apps like MyFitnessPal and Headspace capitalize on growing health awareness by offering freemium models—free basic use combined with paid subscriptions for premium features—driving steady revenue growth.

Emerging Trends:

• Hybrid Monetization Models: Many top apps combine ads, in-app purchases, and subscriptions to diversify income.
• Personalization and Engagement: Apps that tailor experiences and keep users hooked tend to maximize lifetime value.
• Expanding Markets: Emerging regions and new device types (smart TVs, wearables) offer fresh revenue opportunities.

In short, apps that offer continuous value, foster high engagement, and leverage smart monetization strategies consistently top the revenue charts. Understanding these trends can help you identify the right approach to maximize your app’s earning potential.

Why Platform (iOS & Android) Choice Changes Your Earnings?

Choosing between iOS, Android, or other platforms isn’t just about who uses what phone — it affects how much money your app can make.

iOS users tend to spend more on apps and subscriptions compared to Android users, which makes Apple’s App Store a favorite for developers targeting higher revenue. For example, apps on iOS often generate more revenue per user, especially in regions such as the US and Western Europe.

Android dominates in sheer number of users globally, especially in emerging markets. However, the spending power of those users may be lower on average, resulting in more downloads but lower revenue per user.

Some developers even create apps specifically for one platform first — usually iOS — to maximize early earnings, then expand to Android later.

There are also other platforms, such as Amazon’s Appstore and Huawei’s AppGallery, which cater to niche audiences. Still, their revenue potential is usually not as high as that of the big two.

Bottom line: Your choice of platform shapes your audience and earning potential, so be sure to know your target market before diving in.

If you have an app idea but are unsure where to get started and earn money from it, get in touch with us today!

How Much Can You Earn From an App?

The revenue an app can generate varies widely based on several key factors, including the app’s type, popularity, monetization model, and overall user engagement. While some apps make just a few hundred dollars a month, others, especially those ranking in the top charts, can earn tens of thousands of dollars daily.

Here’s a breakdown to better understand app earning potential:

Key Factors That Affect App Revenue

1. App Type:

Different categories yield different revenue potential. For example, gaming apps are among the highest earners due to their strong engagement and effective monetization through in-app purchases and advertisements. In contrast, entertainment or utility apps may generate less but can still be profitable with the right model.

2. Popularity and Ranking:

Apps with high rankings on the App Store or Google Play, as well as those with larger user bases, tend to generate more revenue. Higher visibility means more downloads, which in turn leads to a higher earning potential.

3. Monetization Strategy:

How an app makes money matters significantly. You can create own app with common models that include:

• In-app purchases (popular in gaming)

• Subscriptions (used in content and service apps)

• In-app advertising (common in free apps)

• Freemium models (offer basic services for free, charge for premium features)

4. Marketing and User Acquisition:

Apps with well-planned marketing and growth strategies experience faster traction. Visibility through app store optimization (ASO), paid ads, influencer marketing, and referral programs can lead to higher download rates and conversions.

5. Target Market:

Revenue potential also depends on geographic regions. Apps targeting high-income countries, such as the U.S., Canada, or parts of Europe, typically generate more revenue due to higher average spending per user.

6. Platform (App Store vs. Play Store):

iOS apps on the App Store generally earn more than Android apps, primarily due to the higher spending habits of Apple users.

Realistic App Revenue Examples

• Top-Grossing Apps (Top 200 on App Store):
  Can earn around $82,500 per day

• Gaming Apps (Average):
  Generate approximately $22,000 per day

• Entertainment Apps (Average):
  Bring in about $3,090 per day

• Successful Mid-Tier Apps:
  Can earn roughly $15,000 per month

While app revenue can range from minimal to millions, your success depends on how well you align your app’s niche, user experience, and monetization strategy with your audience’s needs. With the right approach, even smaller apps can scale up and become lucrative ventures over time.

Bonus Read: Top 5 Revenue Models to Successfully Monetize Your Dating App

Hidden Factors That Impact Your App’s Earnings

Making money from an app isn’t just about picking a good idea and launching it. Several behind-the-scenes factors can make or break your earnings:

• User Engagement: An app that people open daily continues to generate revenue, whether through ads or subscriptions. If users drop off quickly, your earnings will suffer.
  
• Retention: Keeping users engaged week after week is crucial, and it often requires significant effort and investment to maintain their interest.
  
• Marketing & User Acquisition: Sometimes, you need to invest upfront to attract users. Without good marketing, even the best app might go unnoticed.
  
• Geography: Where your users live matters. Some countries have higher spending habits and ad rates than others.
  
• App Category: Games, dating, and finance apps tend to have higher revenue per user than utility or educational apps.
  

Now, let's take a look at future trends of mobile app monetization that can transform how you generate profits.

The Future: How New Tech Could Change App Monetization

Mobile app monetization is evolving fast thanks to new technologies:

• AI Personalization: Tailoring offers and ads to users individually could boost revenue by making experiences feel more relevant.
  
• AR/VR Apps: As augmented and virtual reality apps continue to grow, they open new doors for immersive paid experiences and virtual goods.
  
• Blockchain & NFTs: Apps incorporating blockchain might enable new ownership models or collectibles, creating fresh revenue streams.
  
• Wearables & IoT: Monetization could extend to connected wearable app devices beyond phones, expanding the ecosystem.
  

Keeping an eye on these trends will help you stay ahead and discover new ways to increase the profitability of your app.

Takeaway: How to Set Realistic Revenue Goals for Your App

Here’s the truth: making serious money from mobile apps isn’t a guaranteed jackpot — it takes strategy, time, and patience.

• Understand your audience and where they spend money.
  
• Select monetization models that align with your app’s value and user behavior.
  
• Invest in user engagement and marketing to achieve steady growth.
  
• Keep expectations realistic — most apps earn modestly, but consistent effort can build meaningful revenue.
  

Treat your app like a business, not just a hobby, and you’ll be better positioned to succeed financially. Partner With Apptunix to Tap into Profits With Your Mobile App

Unlock Your App’s Full Earning Potential — Partner with Apptunix Today!

Your search for a top mobile app development company ends here at Apptunix. We don't just engineer apps but also transform them into profit-generating machines that thrive in competitive markets.

Whether you're a startup founder or a seasoned entrepreneur, we provide the strategic insight and technical expertise necessary to bring your vision to life as a high-earning digital product.

Here’s why partnering with Apptunix is a game-changing move for your business:

1. Proven Track Record of Profit-Driven Apps

We've helped launch and scale over 2,000 successful apps across various industries, including fintech, fitness, e-commerce, healthcare, education, and more. Many of our clients have seen:

• 6-figure monthly revenues

• Millions of downloads

• High user retention and engagement rates

We focus on what works—from UI/UX that hooks users to monetization models that drive recurring revenue.

2.Expertise in All Monetization Models

Your app's revenue depends on choosing the right monetization strategy. We help you identify the best-fit model based on your industry, app type, and target market:

• Freemium and Subscription Models

• In-App Advertising & Purchases

• Paid Apps with Premium Features

• Affiliate and Partner Marketing Integration

We’ll also help you combine multiple models where applicable to maximize your earning potential.

3. Data-Driven Approach to User Acquisition

Even the best app won’t earn a cent without users. At Apptunix, we integrate growth hacking strategies, app store optimization (ASO), and performance marketing into your launch plan to ensure strong traction right from the start.

This ensures your app gains significant traction and builds a growing user base from day one.

4. Scalable, Future-Proof Solutions

Whether you’re starting small or planning to scale globally, we develop apps that are robust, scalable, and ready for long-term success. Our development process includes:

• Cross-platform and native app development

• Real-time analytics and performance tracking

• Cloud integration and top-tier data security

• AI-powered personalization and user behavior insights

We ensure your app is not only profitable today, but also adaptable to tomorrow’s trends.

5. End-to-End Support, From Idea to Income

From brainstorming to app store launch—and well beyond—we offer:

• Expert business consultation

• Custom design and development

• QA testing and performance optimization

• Post-launch support, updates, and growth monitoring

We don’t leave your side after launch. We evolve with your business.

The Market Is Booming—Now’s the Time to Invest

The global mobile app market is projected to reach $673 billion by 2027, with categories such as gaming, finance, health and wellness, and education leading the charge. This is your moment to invest in a mobile product that not only adds value but also generates profit.

Let’s Build Your Profit-Generating App Together

If you're serious about launching an app that earns, scales, and lasts, Apptunix is your ideal partner. Let's combine your vision with our expertise to bring a world-class app to market. Let’s get your app idea to life as the next big success story. Get in touch with us!