Four AI app build paths side by side: thin API wrapper, workflow automation, RAG assistant, and agentic system, each with one-time build cost and monthly run-rate ranges

AI App Development Cost: Real Pricing by Build Path

Quick Answer: What Does It Cost to Build an AI App? Build Path One-Time Build Cost Monthly Run-Rate (moderate usage) Thin API Wrapper $15k to $60k $200 to $2k Workflow Automation $40k to $150k $1k to $8k RAG Assistant $60k to $200k $2k to $12k Agentic System $100k to $400k+ $5k to $30k+ ...

June 9, 2026 · 22 min · Arsum Editorial Team