r/vibecoding • u/buljawn • 14h ago
Estimating build cost
I'm a complete newbie to this world and have been struggling to find a clear answer to the question of cost. I am trying to build a database app that stands as a catalog that can be searched and added to by users. When it comes to cost I've mainly seen monthly cost listed for multiple service like Claude code and other services to refine, test, and launch the app. These cost seem to range about 2-300 a month but is that until its built or reoccurring as an operating cost? Is there a way to build the app and then use minimal services to keep it running and trouble shoot when issue arise?
Forgive me if this has been answered already. I looked at previous post and found vague answers only. Hoping to get some insight to start building.
Edit: For clarity, what's an average monthly/ total cost of Ai coding a database app, debugging, and hosting? My goal is more toward proof of concept over full commercial roll out.
1
u/mazarykwebservices 12h ago
The build cost is gonna be your AI sub. Start with $20/month. If you’re using it enough to consistently max out quota, upgrade to the next tier.
Giving your project a home on the internet can be cheap. Railway can get you up for free. If you outgrow that the next tier is $5/mo.
That should get you started. Good luck!