How to Sell an iOS App (2026)

Why sell an iOS app?

iOS users tend to spend more on apps and in-app purchases than users on other platforms. That makes iOS apps attractive to buyers and can support stronger valuations. If you have an iPhone or iPad app with real revenue and a clean codebase, there is an active market of buyers looking for exactly that.

Selling lets you turn your work into a lump sum and hand the app over to someone who can invest in updates and growth. Many buyers are experienced operators or studios building a portfolio; they understand the App Store and are ready to move quickly with the right asset.

How Apple app transfer works

Apple allows you to transfer an app to another developer account via App Store Connect. The process is straightforward: you initiate the transfer, the buyer accepts, and once completed the app moves to their account. The app’s listing, reviews, and download history stay intact; only the ownership and financial payouts change.

The buyer must have an Apple Developer Program membership ($99/year). You will need to remove the app from any existing agreements (e.g. App Store Connect agreements) that could block transfer. In-app purchases and subscriptions transfer with the app, but make sure any contracts (e.g. with a third-party subscription provider) are documented and can be reassigned if needed.

Valuing your iOS app

iOS apps are often valued at similar multiples to other mobile apps — typically a multiple of annual profit or revenue. Because iOS users often have higher lifetime value, buyers may be willing to pay at the upper end of the range for apps with strong in-app purchase or subscription revenue.

Use our valuation tool to get a baseline. Then factor in: recurring revenue (subscriptions are highly valued), App Store rating and review trend, and whether the app is well maintained and compliant with current guidelines. A clean, up-to-date iOS app with documented metrics will attract serious offers.

Getting ready to sell

Before listing, gather everything a buyer will need to evaluate and take over the app:

• App Store Connect access (you’ll add the buyer or transfer when the deal closes)
• Revenue and profit history from App Store and any other sources (e.g. ads)
• List of in-app purchases and subscriptions and how they’re managed
• Source code, build instructions, and any keys or credentials
• Documentation of third-party services (analytics, crash reporting, backend) and whether they transfer

The more you can document up front, the faster due diligence and the smoother the handover. Buyers will want to confirm that the app complies with App Store Review Guidelines and that there are no pending issues or violations.

Closing and transferring

Agree on price, payment (use escrow), and exactly what’s included. Then sign a simple asset purchase agreement. Once payment is in escrow, start the transfer in App Store Connect. The buyer accepts the transfer; when it’s complete, hand over code, accounts, and any other assets. Release escrow only after the buyer has confirmed they have full access and the app is in their account.

Keep communication in writing and allow a short support period (e.g. 30 days) for the buyer to ask questions. A clean transfer and a responsive seller leave both sides protected and set the app up for success under new ownership.