How to Hire Freelance iOS Developers in 2024: A Complete Guide

“The right talent can change everything.”

We live in a time where finding iOS developers is just a few clicks away, ready to bring your app ideas to life. It’s pretty amazing, right? 

Thanks to the rise of freelancing (with the Freelance Platforms Market size expected to reach USD 14.17 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 16.66%), hiring iOS developers has become more accessible than ever.it’s a dream that can come true!

Freelance iOS developers offer a ton of perks that we’ll dive into later. But for now, let’s just say they’re like a breath of fresh air for your app project. They often bring in creative ideas and unique perspectives that can make your app stand out from the crowd.

But how do you find the perfect iOS developer? It’s not as simple as searching online. You need to know where to look, what questions to ask, and how to evaluate their work.

That’s where this guide comes in. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from finding the right candidates to managing your project like a pro. 

Let’s jump right in!

Why Freelance iOS Developers Are in High Demand

In 2024, the demand to hire iOS developers is skyrocketing. Think about it: by 2027, 86.5 million people will be freelancing in the United States, making up 50.9% of the total workforce! That’s a huge shift, and it shows that companies are loving the flexibility and cost-effectiveness that freelancers offer.

So, why are freelance iOS developers so hot right now? Well, it’s simple: they offer the best of both worlds. The ability to work remotely and independently makes freelance iOS developers incredibly attractive to companies. They can seamlessly fit into existing teams or work autonomously, offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness that traditional full-time hires can’t match.

Freelancing vs. Full-Time: A Simple Comparison

Aspect	Freelancing	Full-Time
Flexibility	Adjust team size and skills based on project needs.	Fixed team size with less flexibility.
Cost	More cost-effective for short-term or specialized projects.	Higher costs due to salaries and benefits.
Expertise	Access to a wide range of skills and fresh perspectives.	Limited to in-house expertise.
Management	Requires effective remote management strategies.	Easier to manage with an in-house team.

So, what benefits does freelance iOS developers bring to the table?

Why Hire Freelance iOS Developers: The Benefits

Freelancing is becoming a popular choice for businesses, and there are many reasons why. When you hire iOS developers on a freelance basis, you get the benefit of flexibility, cost savings, and a broader range of expertise.

Let’s break down the key advantages of going freelance with your app development projects.

Cost-effectiveness

Freelancers only charge for the hours they work, so you’re not stuck paying full-time salaries, benefits, or office costs. It’s a budget-friendly option, especially for startups or smaller projects.

Flexibility and scalability

Need to scale up or down? When you hire iOS developers on a freelance basis, that becomes easy. Whether you need a few extra hands for a small job or a bigger team for a complex app, you can adjust without committing to long-term contracts.

Access to a global talent pool

Freelancers come from all over the world, giving you access to a wide range of talent. When you hire iOS developers globally, you’ll find professionals with unique skills and fresh ideas that can really enhance your project.

Specialized skills

Many freelancers specialize in specific areas, like UI/UX design or app testing. When you hire them, you’re bringing in experts who can deliver top-quality work where it matters most.

Reduced time-to-market

Freelancers often work faster because they’re not slowed down by internal processes. That means, when you’re hiring iOS developers, you can launch your app sooner and get a jump on generating revenue.

Risk mitigation

If a project isn’t working out, freelancers make it easy to wrap things up without the commitment of a full-time team. You’re not tied to long-term contracts, which keeps your risks lower.

Fresh perspectives

Freelancers bring new ideas and creative solutions, thanks to their experience working with different clients and projects. When hiring iOS developers, this variety helps you think outside the box and come up with fresh solutions.

So, if you’re looking for a superhero team to help you build your iOS app, freelance developers are the ultimate power-up for your project!

Also read: Getting Started with Your First iOS App Development Tutorial 

Let’s go over a quick checklist to help you make the best decision.

Freelance iOS Developer: A Checklist for Evaluation

So, you’ve found some promising candidates. Now it’s time to put them under the microscope. Especially with the average salary for a Freelance Ios Developer being $59.61 per hour. To make sure you’re getting great value for your money, here’s what to focus on:

Here’s your checklist before you hire iOS developers:

Skills and Experience

• Swift Mastery: Make sure they’re good with Swift, the main language for iOS apps. It’s key for building modern, high-quality apps.
• Objective-C Experience: Even though Swift is more common now, experience with Objective-C is useful for maintaining older apps or working with legacy systems.
• Xcode Knowledge: They should know Xcode well. It’s essential for developing iOS apps smoothly.

Review Their Work

• Real-World Projects: Look at their portfolios to see what kinds of apps they’ve worked on. This shows their range and experience.
• Impactful Results: Find out if their projects have achieved good results—like high user engagement, positive reviews, or strong business outcomes. 
• Code Quality: If you can, ask for code samples. This lets you see their coding skills, attention to detail, and how well they follow best practices.

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Soft Skills

• Communication Clarity: Good communication is important. Look for developers who are easy to talk to and can explain technical stuff clearly.
• Problem-Solving Ability: iOS development can have its challenges. See if they can handle problems and come up with creative solutions.
• Time Management: Good time management helps keep projects on track and within budget. Find developers who meet deadlines and manage tasks well.

Fit with Your Team

• Company Values: Make sure their values and work style match your company culture. This helps create a positive working relationship.
• Team Dynamics: Think about how they will fit with your existing team. You want someone who will work well with others.

Test Their Skills

• Test Assignment: Give them a small task to see how they work and if their skills meet your needs.
• Feedback Collection: Get feedback from both the developer and your team. This helps you decide if they’re the right fit.

So, what tools and libraries should you be looking for when hiring freelance iOS developers?

Freelance iOS Developer Toolkit: Essential Libraries and Tools

When hiring freelance iOS developers, it’s important to understand the tools and libraries they’ll be using. This knowledge will help you assess their skills and ensure they have the right resources to deliver high-quality work.

Here are some popular iOS libraries and tools that freelancers often rely on when you hire iOS developers:

Networking Tools

• AFNetworking: This tool helps with making HTTP requests and handling responses efficiently. It also uses Grand Central Dispatch to manage tasks smoothly.
• Alamofire: A modern library written in Swift for HTTP networking. It’s known for its clean design and great performance, making it a solid choice for handling various networking needs.

Image Loading and Caching

• SDWebImage: Ideal for downloading and caching images in the background. It helps keep your app’s scrolling smooth and reduces the need for constant network requests.
• Kingfisher: Another excellent choice for image loading, with features like GIF support and WebP decoding, plus smart memory management.

User Interface and Layout

• SnapKit: This library simplifies creating complex and dynamic user interfaces with constraints, making layout tasks easier.
• Masonry: Similar to SnapKit, but with a different syntax. It offers flexibility and customization for your UI design needs.

Data Persistence

• Realm: A fast database solution that syncs data across devices in real-time, perfect for managing app data efficiently.
• Core Data: Apple’s own tool for managing data in iOS apps. It’s built into iOS and helps with object-relational mapping.

Testing and Debugging

• XCTest: The go-to framework for unit, integration, and UI testing in iOS apps. It’s built into Xcode, making it easy to test your app thoroughly.
• Quick and Nimble: These frameworks offer a more concise and expressive way to write tests, improving the testing process.

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Dependency Management

• CocoaPods: A widely used tool for managing third-party libraries in iOS projects. It simplifies the process of integrating and updating libraries.
• Swift Package Manager: Apple’s own dependency manager for Swift projects. It provides a more integrated way to handle dependencies.

Now that you’re familiar with essential tools, let’s look at the top platforms where you can hire iOS developers and find talented freelancers in 2024.

Best Places to Hire Freelance IOS Developers in 2024

Finding the right freelance iOS developers can be a game-changer for your project. With so many platforms available, it’s essential to know where to look for top talent. Here’s a breakdown of the best places to hire iOS developers, ensuring you get quality expertise for your app development needs.

Finding the right freelance iOS developer can feel like searching for a hidden gem, but with the right tools, it’s easier than you think. Here’s where you can find top talent for your app:

1. Freelance Marketplaces

Platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr provide a broad selection of freelance iOS developers. When you hire iOS developers through these platforms, you can browse portfolios, read client reviews, and select developers based on your budget and specific project needs.

Pros:

• Lots of Options: A wide array of developers to choose from, increasing your chances of finding the perfect match for your needs.
• Competitive Rates: You can find options at various price points, making it easier to fit your budget.

Cons:

• Careful Vetting Needed: With many applicants available, you’ll need to spend time reviewing their qualifications and previous work to ensure you hire the right person.

2. Dedicated Tech Talent Platforms

Platforms like Toptal, Arc.dev, and Codementor focus on connecting you with highly skilled developers who’ve been thoroughly vetted. When hiring iOS developers through these sites, you access top-tier talent that has already proven their expertise.

Pros:

• High-Quality Talent: These platforms offer access to developers who have passed thorough skill assessments.
• Easy Hiring Process: Streamlined processes make it simpler to find and hire top talent efficiently.

Cons:

• Higher Rates: Expect to pay more compared to general freelance marketplaces, reflecting the high level of expertise and service.

3. Niche iOS development communities

Stack Overflow, Reddit, Dribbble, and GitHub Jobs are great places to find iOS developers who are part of active coding communities. These platforms offer a more specialized approach for hiring iOS developers with hands-on experience and direct feedback from other professionals.

Pros:

• Targeted Outreach: You can directly engage with iOS developers who have specialized skills and experience.
• Build Relationships: You have the opportunity to develop professional connections with developers through active participation in these communities.

Cons:

• Time-Consuming: It may take time to find the right fit due to the specialized nature of the communities.

4. IOS Development Agencies

Websites like We Work Remotely and Remote OK list freelance developers who specialize in remote work. When you hire iOS developers through these platforms, you’ll find a range of iOS experts ready for both short- and long-term projects, offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

Pros:

• Pre-Vetted Talent: You access developers who have been screened for their expertise and reliability.
• Project Management Support: Benefit from additional project management resources, ensuring smoother workflow and communication.

Cons:

• Higher Costs: Hiring through agencies may be more expensive compared to direct hiring.

5. Your Network

LinkedIn and AngelList allow you to connect directly with iOS developers who are actively looking for freelance opportunities. When you hire iOS developers through these platforms, you can check their profiles, review their past work experience, and engage in direct communication to see if they’re the right fit for your project.

Pros:

• Reliable Recommendations: You can leverage recommendations from your network, ensuring trusted references.
• Potential Cultural Fit: Direct communication helps assess whether the developer aligns with your project’s culture and needs.

Cons:

• Limited Options: You might have fewer choices compared to broader online platforms.

So, you’ve found some promising freelance iOS developers. Now what?

Decoding the Developer: Key Interview Questions

Now that you’ve shortlisted a few iOS developers, it’s time to take a closer look at their skills. When you hire iOS developers, there’s no need to overwhelm them—just ask the right questions to understand their experience and see if they’re the right fit for your project.

Here are some key questions to ask:

Technical Know-How

1. What is your experience with the latest versions of iOS and the new features they introduce?
2. How proficient are you in Swift and Objective-C? Can you explain the key differences and when to use each?
3. Can you describe your understanding of memory management in iOS, including techniques like ARC and manual memory management?
4. How familiar are you with iOS UI/UX design principles and guidelines? Can you share examples of apps that you admire for their user experience?

Project Experience

1. Can you describe a complex iOS project you’ve worked on and your role in its development?
2. What challenges did you face during the project, and how did you overcome them?
3. Can you share examples of how you’ve used specific iOS frameworks or libraries to solve problems?

Problem-Solving Skills

1. How do you approach debugging and troubleshooting issues in iOS development?
2. Can you describe a time when you had to solve a difficult technical problem? How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?

Collaboration and Communication

1. How do you prefer to communicate with clients and team members?
2. Can you describe a time when you had to work closely with a team of developers on a project? What was your role, and how did you contribute to the team’s success?

Learning and Growth

1. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in iOS development?
2. What are your career goals, and how do you see yourself contributing to our team’s success?

Next, let’s break down what you can expect to pay for freelance iOS developers.

Freelance IOS Developer Rates: A Breakdown

When you hire iOS developers, understanding their hourly rates is key to setting your project’s budget. These rates can vary based on several factors, and having a clear idea helps you plan better.

Factors Affecting Freelance IOS Developer Rates

• Experience: Developers with a proven track record and extensive experience in iOS development will typically charge higher rates.
• Project Complexity: Project Complexity: The complexity of your project, including its features, functionality, and design, will directly impact the overall cost when you hire iOS developers.
• Location: Developers’ rates can vary depending on their geographical location. For example, developers in regions with higher costs of living may charge more.

Average Hourly Rates for Freelance iOS Developers

While the average hourly rates can fluctuate, here’s a general breakdown:

• Junior Developers: $20-$35 per hour
• Mid-Level Developers: $35-$50 per hour
• Senior Developers: $50-$80 per hour
• Lead Developers: $80+ per hour

Cost Estimation Based on Project Scope

To get a more accurate estimate of the project’s cost, consider the following factors:

• Project Duration: The time needed to complete the work.
• Number of Features: More features and greater complexity mean higher costs.
• Design Complexity: The more intricate and customized the design, the bigger the budget.
• Third-Party Integrations: If your app requires external services or APIs, this can drive up costs.

Here’s a general estimate:

• Small projects: $10,000 – $30,000
• Medium projects: $30,000 – $50,000
• Large projects: $50,000+

Once you’ve got a sense of the rates, it’s time to focus on the working relationship when you hire iOS developers. Let’s talk about how to set it up.

Setting Up the Working Relationship for iOS App Development

Once you’ve found the ideal iOS developer, it’s crucial to establish a strong working relationship. When you hire iOS developers, this will ensure smooth communication, efficient collaboration, and successful project delivery. 

Here are some tips for setting up a successful working relationship with your freelance iOS developer:

Creating a Comprehensive Contract

A good contract is essential for a clear and successful project. Make sure your contract covers these key points:

• Project Scope: Clearly state what features and design elements you want for your iOS app. The more specific you are, the better.
• Timeline and Milestones: Set realistic deadlines and break the project into stages. This helps track progress and keeps things on schedule.
• Payment Terms: Agree on how and when payments will be made. This could include an upfront payment, payments at key milestones, and a final payment when the project wraps up.
• Intellectual Property: Make it clear who owns the app and its source code. This ensures you have the rights to the final product.
• Confidentiality: Both you and the developer should agree to keep sensitive information private.
• Dispute Resolution: Outline how to handle any disagreements or issues that come up during the project. This can help resolve conflicts smoothly.

Effective Communication and Collaboration

Good communication is key to a successful project. Here’s how to keep everything on track:

• Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular meetings or calls to discuss progress and address any issues. This keeps everyone in the loop.
• Project Management Tools: Use tools like Asana, Trello, or Basecamp to manage tasks, deadlines, and responsibilities. These tools help keep the project organized.
• Version Control: Use a system like Git to track changes in the app’s code. This helps manage updates and collaborate effectively.
• Clear Expectations: Make sure you communicate your expectations clearly regarding what you want and when you want it. This prevents misunderstandings.
• Feedback and Revisions: Be open to feedback and willing to make changes. Give timely feedback on the developer’s work to keep things on track.

Building Trust and Respect

A positive working relationship is built on trust and respect. Upon hiring iOS developers, here’s how to foster a good partnership:

• Be Transparent: Share your expectations, challenges, and concerns honestly. This helps build a strong working relationship.
• Show Appreciation: Acknowledge the developer’s hard work and contributions. A little appreciation goes a long way.
• Be Flexible: Be ready to adapt to changes or unexpected challenges. Flexibility can help keep the project moving smoothly.
• Resolve Conflicts Promptly: If issues arise, address them respectfully and professionally. Quick resolution helps maintain a good working environment.

Once you’ve got the relationship set up, it’s time to think about some potential challenges when hiring iOS developers. Let’s discuss that.

Challenges in Finding the Right Skills and Experience

Finding the right freelance iOS developer can be a daunting task. With so many factors to consider, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. However, by understanding the common challenges and knowing where to look when you hire iOS developers, you can increase your chances of finding the perfect developer for your project.

Here are some specific challenges you may encounter when hiring freelance iOS developers:

Identifying Developers with the Right Balance of Skills and Experience

It’s not easy to find someone who’s up-to-date with the latest iOS features and still knows the basics inside out. When you hire iOS developers, you need a professional who can handle new tech but also understands the fundamentals.

Evaluating Developers’ Portfolios and References

Figuring out if a freelancer’s past work and reliability are up to snuff can be tough, especially when you’re working remotely. Dive deep into their portfolios and client feedback to get a clear picture.

Communicating Effectively with Developers

Clear and open communication is crucial to avoid mix-ups and delays. When hiring iOS developers, make sure you’re both on the same page from the start and keep checking in regularly to stay aligned.

Managing Project Timelines and Deliverables

Keeping projects on track with freelancers can be challenging. Stay organized, set clear deadlines, and ensure that the work meets your quality standards throughout the process.

Protecting Intellectual Property

When you hire iOS developers, protecting your ideas is essential. Strong contracts and non-disclosure agreements can help keep your intellectual property safe.

Handling Unexpected Issues or Changes

Freelance projects often come with surprises or changes in scope. Be ready to adapt and tackle any unexpected issues that come up to keep your project moving smoothly.

It’s a lot to consider, but don’t worry. When you hire iOS developers, there are ways to make this easier. Let’s talk about one option.

How Codewave Can Help You Hire the Best iOS Developers

When you’re looking to hire freelance iOS developers, Outsourcing experts with a company like Codewave can make a huge difference. 

Codewave is a design thinking-led digital innovation company, with a proven track record of success and a commitment to fostering exceptional client experiences! 

Here’s how Codewave’s expertise can help you:

Need a full-service team for your iOS app? Codewave’s got you covered. We specialize in creating both web applications and mobile applications, so you’re in good hands whether you’re building a simple app or something more complex.

Want your app to be cutting-edge? Codewave’s team is always on top of the latest tech trends. We can integrate cool features like AI and machine learning to make your app stand out.

Need help with the whole development process? Codewave offers a wide range of services, from data analysis to cloud development. This means you can rely on us for everything, from the beginning to the end of your project.

Want a streamlined development process? Codewave handles it all, including process automation, boosting productivity by automating repetitive tasks and ensuring efficient, secure development.

Now, let’s wrap up with some final thoughts.

Conclusion

As Steve Jobs aptly stated, “Great things in business are never done by one person; they’re done by a team of people.” 

It’s totally true! Hiring the right people is like building a strong foundation for your business. When you hire iOS developers who share your dreams and have the skills to make them happen, you’re setting yourself up for success.

Did you know that 8 out of 10 IT managers use freelancers to get more done? That’s a lot! Freelancers can be a real game-changer for your team. They bring fresh ideas and can help you get a lot more done.

Partnering with companies that prioritize user-centric solutions, like Codewave, ensures that your digital projects remain innovative and impactful. Codewave’s approach, rooted in ‘Design Thinking Led Digital Innovation,’ brings creativity and functionality together seamlessly, helping you stay ahead in a competitive market.

Want to know more about Codewave? Visit our website to see how we can help you build digital solutions that connect with your audience and lead to long-term success.Also an interesting read: Freelance UX Consultants vs Agencies: Which Should You Choose?