The Real Cost to Build an App like Carousell in 2025
Imagine this: you’ve got a brilliant idea, a mobile marketplace where people can buy and sell easily, just like Carousell.
You can already see your app icon on people’s phones, right?
But then the big question hits: “How much does it actually cost to build an app like Carousell?”
Let’s simplify it; no tech jargon, no fluff. Just real answers that help you make confident decisions.
We live in an era where secondhand selling is the new cool. People want affordable, sustainable options, and that’s exactly what platforms like Carousell deliver.
In 2024, Carousell reported over $119 million in revenue with tens of millions of active listings across Asia. That’s proof of how powerful marketplace apps can be.
So yes, your idea isn’t just good, it’s timely.
Here’s the honest breakdown, simple and clear. The cost depends mainly on:
| Type of App | Key Features | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic MVP | User login, listings, chat, search | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Mid-level App | Payments, ratings, and admin dashboard | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| Full-featured App like Carousell | Analytics, AI suggestions, scalability | Payments, ratings, and admin dashboard |
Pro Tip: Start small with an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) — it’s faster, cheaper, and gives you a real test before going big.
You don’t need to be a techie to understand this; here’s where the cost usually goes:
Remember: Always keep 20% of your yearly budget for updates and improvements, because user expectations evolve fast.
If you’re on a budget, start with these must-have features:
These are what make your app useful, lovable, and sticky.
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Discovery & Design | 3–4 weeks |
| Development (MVP) | 8–12 weeks |
| Testing & Launch | 2–3 weeks |
That’s around 3 to 4 months for an MVP and 6–9 months for a full app, depending on the complexity.
Let’s face it, building an app from scratch can be overwhelming. You’ve got the vision but not the time to decode every tech term or manage endless developers.
That’s where YeasiTech steps in.
YeasiTech isn’t just a development company, it’s a partner that builds with empathy.
We specialize in building scalable marketplace apps like Carousell: fast, reliable, and budget-friendly.
Here’s why startups and entrepreneurs love working with YeasiTech:
YeasiTech’s mission is simple: help dreamers turn ideas into apps that make money. They understand what it feels like to start small and dream big.
Here’s the truth: you don’t need millions or fancy investors to build an app like Carousell.
You just need the right partner who understands your vision and works smart, not expensively.
Let YeasiTech handle the tech, while you focus on growing your business.
Your marketplace idea deserves to live, not just stay in your notebook.
Talk to YeasiTech today for a free consultation and cost breakdown. Start your journey toward launching the next big marketplace app.
The cost depends on features, platform, and complexity. A basic MVP costs $5,000–$10,000, while a full-featured app can cost $6,000–$12,000+. Starting small helps validate your idea before spending big.
An MVP usually takes 3–4 months, including design, development, and testing. A full-featured marketplace app may take 6–9 months, depending on complexity.
Must-have features include user login, product listing, search filters, in-app chat, payment gateway, ratings & reviews, and push notifications. Advanced features can be added later.
Yes! Start with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) that focuses on core features. Once it gains traction, you can expand with more advanced functionality.
Working with an experienced partner like YeasiTech ensures your app is built efficiently, scalable, and cost-effective. They specialize in marketplace apps and startup-friendly solutions.
YeasiTech is a trusted IT service partner with 8+ years of experience, empowering 250+ businesses with scalable web, mobile and AI solutions.
Explore related topics to broaden your understanding and gain actionable insights that can transform your strategies.