Do you want to know how much it costs to create an app like FanDuel? You're not the only one!
Fantasy sports are becoming quite popular all around the world, and a lot of businesses want to get in on the action. FanDuel is one of the largest names in daily fantasy sports. It has altered the way people play their favorite games, from football and basketball to baseball and more.
Making a platform like FanDuel can be a good way to make money, but the first step is to figure out how much it will cost to develop an app like FanDuel. The cost of developing a sports betting app like FanDuel ranges between $25,000 - $90,000 , totally depending on things like the functionality, the design, and the technological stack.
This thorough tutorial will explain all you need to know about FanDuel-like app development cost and what it takes to build a fantasy sports app like FanDuel that people want to use and keep using.
What Is FanDuel?
FanDuel is one of the largest fantasy sports and betting sites in the United States. It enables users to engage in daily and weekly fantasy tournaments across many sports, including football, basketball, baseball, golf, and more.
Instead of managing teams for a whole season, FanDuel users may establish fresh teams for each event and earn real money depending on their players’ performance in live games.
The software is geared for both casual fans and dedicated sports fanatics, making it a prominent participant in the fantasy sports sector. If you’re intending to develop a sports betting app like FanDuel, knowing how it performs is important to designing something similarly exciting and successful.
Here are some recent and reliable facts about FanDuel, showing how big the platform has grown over the years:
- FanDuel’s massive revenue growth: In 2024, FanDuel recorded an impressive revenue of $5.79 billion, marking nearly a 19.6% year-over-year growth. This makes it one of the leading names in the U.S. fantasy sports and betting industry.( Business of Apps)
- Record-breaking wagering volume: Players wagered around $50.8 billion through FanDuel’s platform in 2024, showing just how widely the app is being used for fantasy sports and betting across states.
- Millions of app downloads: By 2025, the FanDuel app crossed 23 million downloads, making it one of the most-installed sports betting and fantasy sports apps in the United States.
- Strong customer base: FanDuel has grown its user base to over 17 million registered customers across the U.S., offering fantasy sports, sportsbook, and casino services in multiple states. (PR Newswire)
- Consistent profitability and market dominance: In Q1 2025 alone, FanDuel generated $1.67 billion in revenue, an 18% year-over-year rise, and achieved an adjusted EBITDA of $161 million, solidifying its market leadership. (Legal Sports Report)
Together, these stats paint a clear picture, FanDuel isn’t just another fantasy sports app; it’s a billion-dollar brand shaping the future of fantasy gaming and online betting.
How Does It Work?
Here’s a short overview of how FanDuel works:
User Registration and Login: Users start by joining up using their email or social network accounts. The onboarding procedure is straightforward and rapid, enabling instant access to competitions.
Choose a Sport and Contest Type: Players may pick from several sports such as NFL, NBA, MLB, or PGA. They may join free or paid competitions, depending on their comfort level.
Build a Fantasy Team: Each user constructs a virtual squad by picking real-life players under a defined wage limit. This provides fairness and strategy in the selecting process.
Enter Contests and Compete: Once teams are created, users enter competitions where they compete against others. Points are granted depending on how the selected athletes perform in actual games.
Track Performance in Real-Time: Users may monitor live updates, player information, and team standings inside the app. This real-time involvement keeps spectators fascinated throughout the event.
Win Rewards and Cash Prizes: Winners get cash awards, bonuses, or credits that may be redeemed or utilized for future competitions.
FanDuel’s success lies in its entertaining interface, real-time data, and lucrative structure, all supported by secure payment processes.
Key Features of an App Like FanDuel
When you create a sports betting app like FanDuel, it’s important to include top fantasy sports app features that make the user experience exciting, smooth, and rewarding.
Here are some must-have fantasy sports app features to consider:
- Easy Registration & Login: Quick signup using email, phone number, or social media for effortless access.
- User Dashboard: A personalized space to view contests, performance stats, and rewards.
- Live Match Updates: Real-time scores, player stats, and leaderboards to keep users engaged.
- Multiple Contest Options: Head-to-head, private, and public contests for every skill level.
- Secure Payment System: Seamless deposit, withdrawal, and wallet integration for safe transactions.
- Push Notifications: Alerts for new contests, match results, and bonus offers.
- Social Sharing: Let users share achievements and invite friends to earn referral rewards.
- Admin Panel: Complete control over contests, users, and payouts.
These fantasy sports app features are what make an app like FanDuel stand out, engaging users while ensuring transparency, trust, and fun in every game.
Now that you know the key features that make apps like FanDuel so engaging, you might be wondering about the budget part, how much does it really cost to create a sports betting app like FanDuel?
Let’s break down the estimated cost and what goes into building such a high-performing fantasy sports platform
Average Cost to Create an App Like FanDuel
If you’re intending to create an app like FanDuel, knowing the cost breakdown is vital before launching into production.
The average cost to develop an app like FanDuel normally runs from $25,000 to $90,000 , depending on the app’s complexity, design, functionality, and the platforms (Android, iOS, or both) you target.
A basic fantasy sports app offers key functionality like user login, team formation, leaderboards, and score updates. These are useful for startups or MVP (Minimum Viable Product) testing.
A mid-level app provides expanded functionality such as real-time data integration, social sharing, various leagues, and secure payment channels.
Meanwhile, a sophisticated app comparable to FanDuel provides premium features like AI-driven player recommendations, live streaming, chat options, and thorough data, suitable for large-scale enterprises wanting to participate in the fantasy sports industry.
Here’s a detailed cost breakdown for building a FanDuel-like fantasy sports app:
| Development Stage | Basic App ($) | Mid-Level App ($) | Advanced App ($) |
| UI/UX Design | 2,000 – 4,000 | 4,000 – 7,000 | 7,000 – 10,000 |
| Frontend & Backend Development | 8,000 – 15,000 | 15,000 – 25,000 | 25,000 – 40,000 |
| API & Real-Time Data Integration | 2,000 – 5,000 | 5,000 – 8,000 | 8,000 – 12,000 |
| Payment Gateway & Security Setup | 1,500 – 3,000 | 3,000 – 5,000 | 5,000 – 8,000 |
| Testing & QA | 1,500 – 3,000 | 3,000 – 5,000 | 5,000 – 8,000 |
| Maintenance & Support (Yearly) | 1,000 – 2,000 | 2,000 – 4,000 | 4,000 – 7,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $25,000 – $35,000 | $40,000 – $65,000 | $70,000 – $90,000 |
The overall cost can also vary depending on the mobile app development company you hire and the development region.
For example, companies generally charge higher hourly rates compared to firms in India, which can significantly affect your total FanDuel clone app development cost.
While we’ve covered the general cost to make an app like FanDuel, the actual price can vary based on several factors, from design complexity to team location.
In this next section, we’ll dive deeper into the key elements that influence the cost to develop an app similar to FanDuel, so you can plan your budget smartly.
Key Factors That Affect the Cost to Build a Fantasy Sports App Like FanDuel
Several elements influence the cost to create a sports betting app like FanDuel, and understanding them helps you plan your budget smartly.
From app features and platform choice to team location and backend setup, each factor plays a big role in determining the final development cost.
Let’s break down the key aspects that shape the pricing and what you can expect to spend on each.
1. App Complexity and Features
The overall cost to create a fantasy sports app mainly depends on how complex the app is. A basic fantasy sports app with simple user registration, score tracking, and contest creation costs much less than one with advanced features like live streaming, real-time chat, or AI-based team recommendations.
If you want to develop a fantasy sports app with a large user base and interactive elements, the backend system and performance optimization will also raise the cost. More complexity means more development time and higher pricing.
| App Type | Included Features | Estimated Cost Range |
| Basic App | User login, match listing, score updates | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| Medium App | Leaderboards, push notifications, referral system | $35,000 – $60,000 |
| Advanced App | Live streaming, chat, AI team builder, wallet system | $60,000 – $90,000+ |
Estimated Development Cost: $25,000 – $90,000
2. App Design and User Experience (UI/UX)
Design is the most important element when it comes to fantasy sports apps. A well-designed UI/UX makes it simple for users to find their way around, form teams, and enjoy competitions without getting lost. Users remain interested longer when the UI is more refined and engaging.
A minimalist design costs less, but adding custom animations, dashboards, and layouts might make the total cost go up. A good design not only gets people more interested, but it also makes your fantasy app stand out from competitors like FanDuel.
| Design Element | Description | Average Cost |
| App Layout & Navigation | Simple, clean user flow for team creation and contests | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Custom Icons & Graphics | Unique visuals for teams, players, and sports categories | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Animations & Transitions | Smooth screen movement and visual effects for better feel | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Color Scheme & Branding | Consistent theme and brand-aligned visuals | $800 – $1,500 |
| Dashboard Design | Personalized user dashboards showing live matches and stats | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Responsive Design | Compatibility across Android, iOS, and web platforms | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Prototyping & Testing | Interactive mockups and design validation | $1,000 – $2,000 |
Estimated Total Design Cost: $6,000 – $15,000
3. Platform Choice (Android, iOS, or Both)
The platform you choose also has an impact on the overall FanDuel -like app development cost. It is cheaper and easier to create an app for only one platform (Android or iOS), which is great for new businesses.
Most businesses, on the other hand, use both platforms to reach more people. This means they have to test and create twice as much.
Cross-platform frameworks like Flutter or React Native may save costs while still providing performance that is almost as good as native. But if you want the highest performance and scalability, native development is still the best option.
| Platform Type | Development Scope | Estimated Cost |
| Android Only | Built using Kotlin or Java | $25,000 – $40,000 |
| iOS Only | Built using Swift | $30,000 – $45,000 |
| Both Platforms | Separate native apps or hybrid framework | $45,000 – $80,000+ |
Estimated Platform Development Cost: $25,000 – $70,000
4. Technology Stack
The technology stack you choose directly affects how much it costs to develop a fantasy sports app like FanDuel. It includes the tools, frameworks, and APIs your developers use to build the app’s frontend, backend, and database.
Using the latest tech ensures better performance, faster loading times, and smoother user experiences. However, advanced tools like React Native or Flutter for cross-platform apps may increase the overall cost.
| Technology Component | Description | Average Cost |
| Frontend Framework | React Native or Flutter for Android & iOS support | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Backend Framework | Node.js, Django, or Laravel for server-side logic | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Database | MySQL, Firebase, or MongoDB for storing user data | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| APIs | Sports data, authentication, and analytics integrations | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Cloud Hosting | AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure services | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Push Notifications | Firebase or OneSignal for real-time updates | $800 – $1,500 |
Estimated Technology Stack Cost: $10,000 – $22,000
5. Third-Party Integrations
Integrations play a huge role in delivering real-time user experiences in apps like FanDuel.
From live score APIs and payment gateways to social media logins and chat features, every integration enhances engagement.
However, each integration adds to the total fantasy sports app development cost, depending on complexity and licensing fees.
| Integration Type | Description | Average Cost |
| Sports Data APIs | Provides real-time player stats, match updates, and scores | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Payment Gateway | Secure transactions via PayPal, Stripe, or Razorpay | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Social Media Login | Simplifies registration using Facebook, Google, or Apple ID | $800 – $1,500 |
| Chat & Notifications | Enables in-app communication and alerts | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Analytics Tools | Tracks user behavior and app performance | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Ad Integration | Supports banner and video ads for revenue | $800 – $1,500 |
Estimated Integration Cost: $7,000 – $15,000
6. Backend Infrastructure
The backend is the engine of your fantasy sports app, it handles user accounts, transactions, match results, and data storage. A strong backend ensures smooth performance, even during high-traffic tournaments.
Choosing scalable cloud hosting and secure databases is key to handling thousands of users efficiently.
| Backend Element | Description | Average Cost |
| Server Hosting | AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud for scalable operations | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Database Management | Manages player data, teams, and transactions | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Security & Encryption | Protects user info and payments from breaches | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| API Management | Connects app to external sports and payment APIs | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Performance Optimization | Ensures speed and reliability under heavy load | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Monitoring & Maintenance | Ongoing system health and uptime monitoring | $1,000 – $2,000 |
Estimated Backend Infrastructure Cost: $8,000 – $16,000
7. Development Team Location and Expertise
One of the biggest factors affecting the cost to build a fantasy sports app like FanDuel is where your development team is based and how experienced they are. Developers in the U.S. or Western Europe typically charge higher hourly rates compared to teams in Asia or Eastern Europe.
The cost also depends on the expertise level, hiring a top-rated fantasy sports app development company with skilled designers, QA engineers, and backend specialists ensures better quality, faster delivery, and fewer bugs in the long run.
| Region | Average Hourly Rate | Approx. App Development Cost |
| United States | $80 – $150/hour | $60,000 – $90,000+ |
| Western Europe | $60 – $120/hour | $50,000 – $80,000 |
| Eastern Europe | $40 – $70/hour | $35,000 – $60,000 |
| Asia (India, Vietnam, Philippines) | $25 – $50/hour | $25,000 – $45,000 |
Estimated Development Cost (based on region): $25,000 – $120,000
8. Testing and Quality Assurance
No matter how great your app looks, if it’s buggy or crashes during live matches, users will uninstall it instantly. That’s why testing and quality assurance (QA) are vital steps in the FanDuel-like app development process.
Testing ensures that every feature, from live scoring and player drafts to payment gateways works smoothly. QA teams use both manual and automated tools to check for speed, performance, usability, and security issues.
| Testing Type | Description | Average Cost |
| Functional Testing | Ensures each app feature works properly | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Performance Testing | Checks speed and load capacity during heavy usage | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Usability Testing | Tests user experience and navigation flow | $800 – $1,500 |
| Security Testing | Protects data, payments, and user info from threats | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Compatibility Testing | Ensures app runs on multiple devices and OS versions | $800 – $1,500 |
| Regression Testing | Verifies new updates don’t break existing features | $1,000 – $2,000 |
Estimated Testing Cost: $6,000 – $12,000
9. Maintenance and Support
Once your app is live, the work doesn’t stop there. Regular maintenance and support are crucial to keep your platform updated, secure, and compatible with new OS releases and sports data APIs.
Maintenance includes bug fixes, feature upgrades, and performance optimization, all of which keep your users engaged and satisfied. Typically, annual maintenance costs about 15%–25% of the initial cost to build an app like FanDuel.
| Maintenance Activity | Description | Average Annual Cost |
| Bug Fixes & Updates | Regular patches and minor improvements | $2,000–$4,000/year |
| Feature Enhancements | Adding new tournaments or game modes | $3,000–$6,000/year |
| Server & API Upkeep | Managing hosting and data integrations | $2,000–$5,000/year |
| Security Monitoring | Ensures ongoing data protection | $1,500–$3,000/year |
| User Support | Handling complaints and queries | $1,000–$2,000/year |
Estimated Maintenance Cost: $10,000 – $20,000/year
Hidden or Additional Costs You Should Consider
Even after estimating the main cost to develop a fantasy sports app like FanDuel, there are a few additional costs that often get overlooked. These hidden expenses can make a big difference in your final budget.
Let’s take a closer look at the top five hidden factors that can affect your cost to create an app like FanDuel.
1. Server and Cloud Hosting Costs
Once your app goes live, all user data, match stats, and transaction details need to be stored securely on a server. Reliable hosting ensures smooth performance, especially during peak game times.
Most startups choose cloud platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure for scalability and performance.
| Service | Purpose | Estimated Monthly Cost |
| AWS / Google Cloud | Scalable hosting for app data | $200 – $800/month |
| CDN (Cloudflare, Akamai) | Faster global content delivery | $100 – $300/month |
| Database Management | Real-time data handling | $150 – $500/month |
Hidden Cost Alert: If your app experiences heavy traffic during tournaments, hosting costs can increase up to 30%–40%.
2. Sports API and Data Integration Fees
A fantasy sports app is only as good as its live data. APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) supply real-time scores, player stats, and match updates. Platforms like SportsRadar or CricketAPI provide premium data feeds but come with licensing fees.
| API Provider | Use | Approx. Cost (Monthly) |
| SportsRadar | Real-time sports data | $500 – $2,000 |
| CricketAPI / API-Football | Niche data for specific sports | $300 – $1,000 |
| Opta Sports | Premium analytics and insights | $1,000 – $3,000 |
Hidden Cost Alert: Data licensing and premium API tiers can add 10%–15% to the total development cost.
3. Legal Compliance and Licensing
Before you create a fantasy sports app , you must ensure it meets regional gaming and gambling laws. Some countries or U.S. states require special licenses or certifications for operating a fantasy sports platform.
| Compliance Area | Description | Average Cost |
| Gaming License | Required for real-money apps in many regions | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Legal Consultation | Professional help with contracts & regulations | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| User Terms & Privacy Policies | Drafted by legal experts | $500 – $1,500 |
Hidden Cost Alert: Legal approvals may take weeks, so plan both time and money in advance.
4. Marketing and User Acquisition
Building an app is only half the journey, getting users onboard is where the real challenge starts. Marketing includes paid ads, influencer promotions, and referral campaigns to attract players.
| Marketing Channel | Purpose | Approx. Monthly Cost |
| Social Media Ads | Facebook, Instagram, X promotions | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Influencer Campaigns | Partnering with sports creators | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| Referral Bonuses | Incentives for user invites | $500 – $2,000 |
Hidden Cost Alert: Successful user acquisition can require 20%–30% of your initial fantasy sports app development cost.
5. App Store Publishing and Updates
Finally, to make your app live, you’ll need to publish it on Google Play or the App Store, both of which come with fees. Regular updates also incur ongoing costs for compliance and feature additions.
| Platform | Fee Type | Cost |
| Google Play Store | One-time developer fee | $25 |
| Apple App Store | Annual developer fee | $99/year |
| App Updates & Patches | Routine fixes & feature additions | $500 – $2,000 per update |
Hidden Cost Alert: Frequent app updates improve engagement but can add up over time.
After understanding what drives the cost it’s time to look at how you can reduce those expenses without compromising on quality.
Here are some proven strategies to optimize your fantasy sports app development cost and still get top-notch performance.
Tips to Help You Optimize Your Fantasy Sports App Development Cost
Developing a fantasy sports app like FanDuel doesn’t always have to burn a hole in your pocket. With the right strategy and smart planning, you can optimize your cost to create an app like FanDuel while still delivering a high-quality experience.
Here are some practical tips to help you save more and build better:
1. Start with an MVP (Minimum Viable Product)
Instead of launching a full-scale app right away, create a fantasy sports app with only the core features like user login, contests, leaderboards, and payments. This helps you test the market first and avoid spending on unnecessary features.
2. Choose the Right Development Partner
Partner with an experienced fantasy sports app development company that offers both technical expertise and cost-effective solutions. Skilled developers can help you make smarter tech decisions and avoid costly reworks.
3. Select Features Wisely
Don’t overload your app with advanced functionalities in the beginning. Features like live streaming or AI-based predictions can be added later. Focus first on what truly matters to users.
4. Opt for Cross-Platform Development
Instead of building separate Android and iOS apps, choose a cross-platform framework like Flutter or React Native. It cuts development time and reduces your cost to develop an app like FanDuel by up to 40%.
5. Leverage Third-Party APIs
Use reliable sports APIs for real-time data instead of building everything from scratch. It saves time, effort, and maintenance costs.
6. Plan for Scalability Early
Invest in scalable backend architecture so your app can grow with your audience, without huge redesign expenses later.
By following these smart steps, you can develop an app like FanDuel that’s not only engaging but also cost-efficient from day one.
You’ve learned how to manage the cost to make an app like FanDuel, but what about turning it into a profitable business? Let’s explore how FanDuel and other leading fantasy sports apps generate consistent revenue through different monetization models.
How Apps Like FanDuel Make Money?
Ever wondered how apps like FanDuel make millions every year? It’s not just about letting users play fantasy sports, it’s about creating a smart business model that keeps revenue flowing daily. Let’s break down how these fantasy sports apps generate income.
1. Entry Fees and Contest Commission
This is the biggest source of revenue for apps like FanDuel. Users pay a small entry fee to join fantasy leagues or contests.
The platform then takes a small commission (usually 10–20%) from the total prize pool. For example, if 1,000 users join a $10 contest, FanDuel earns around $10,000 in fees and keeps $1,000–$2,000 as its profit.
2. In-App Purchases and Subscriptions
FanDuel also earns through premium subscriptions and in-app purchases. These might include advanced analytics, AI-based predictions, or access to exclusive leagues.
A monthly subscription model ensures recurring revenue, which keeps cash flow stable even during off-seasons.
3. Advertisements and Sponsorships
With millions of active users, FanDuel is a goldmine for advertisers. Brands pay to display targeted ads within the app, from sports gear companies to betting partners.
Sponsored tournaments and in-app promotions also bring in additional income while enhancing user engagement.
4. Partnerships and Brand Collaborations
FanDuel collaborates with sports leagues, teams, and media companies for mutual benefits.
These partnerships boost app visibility while bringing in affiliate revenue and promotional funds. For example, partnerships with major sports leagues help FanDuel attract more users and generate additional revenue streams.
5. Data Monetization and Insights
Fantasy sports apps collect massive amounts of user data like player preferences, spending habits, and engagement patterns. By analyzing this data (ethically and within privacy laws), companies can improve ad targeting or sell aggregated insights to sports brands and analytics firms.
In short, the cost to create fantasy sports apps like FanDuel is an investment that can easily pay off once you implement these revenue models strategically. From entry fees to partnerships, every feature is designed to bring continuous income while giving users an exciting sports experience.
Why Choose Techanic Infotech for Your FanDuel-Like Fantasy Sports App?
At Techanic Infotech, we specialize in designing cost-effective fantasy sports apps like FanDuel that integrate innovation, scalability, and exceptional user experience.
Our skilled team leverages the latest technologies and frameworks to design apps with real-time data, seamless performance, and safe transactions. From idea to launch, we handle everything, design, development, testing, and post-launch support.
Whether you want to design a fantasy sports app from the start or upgrade an existing one, we adapt every feature to meet your business strategy and audience.
Partner with Techanic Infotech, a reputable fantasy sports app development company, to convert your concept into a successful sports platform.
Conclusion
Building an app like FanDuel is one of the smartest moves for entrepreneurs looking to enter the fast-growing fantasy sports industry.
With the right mix of fantasy sports app features, engaging design, and a reliable development team, your platform can stand out in this competitive market.
The cost to create a fantasy sports app like FanDuel depends on features, technology, and complexity, but the potential returns are huge.
If you’re ready to turn your idea into a real, revenue-generating platform, we can help you every step of the way, from concept to launch and beyond. Your dream fantasy sports app starts here!
FAQ's
The average cost to build an app like FanDuel ranges from $25,000 to $90,000, depending on design, features, and platform choice.
It typically takes 3 to 6 months to design, develop, and launch a fully functional fantasy sports app.
Some must-have features include real-time updates, team selection, live leaderboards, secure payments, and reward systems.
Yes, Techanic Infotech provides complete maintenance and support services to ensure smooth app performance and updates.
As a leading fantasy sports app development company, Techanic Infotech specializes in creating feature-rich, scalable, and user-friendly sports apps tailored to your business goals.