news.volyx.in

Costs of running a macOS app studio business (notes.alinpanaitiu.com)

677 points by alin23 · 970 days ago · 210 comments on HN

Article summary

The article discusses the costs of running a macOS app studio business, including time, App Store fees, and taxes. The author shares their personal experience and financial numbers, highlighting the challenges of making a living from app sales. The business earns around $108,400 per year, but after fees and taxes, the net profit is around $69,960. The author reflects on the trade-offs between earning a higher income as a consultant versus having more time and freedom as an app developer.

Main themes

  • macOS app development
  • business costs
  • taxation
  • cost of living
  • freelancing vs consulting
  • entrepreneurship
  • Romanian economy and politics

What commenters say

  • Some commenters think the author's net revenue is reasonable, while others believe it's low considering the work involved.
  • There is disagreement about the cost of living in Romania, with some arguing it's similar to Western Europe and others claiming it's significantly lower.
  • The complexity of tax calculations and the perceived corruption in Romania's tax system are criticized by some commenters.
  • Others argue that the tax rate is not the main issue, but rather the lack of trust in how the government spends tax money.
  • Some commenters suggest that the author could optimize their tax strategy by incorporating their business in a different EU country.
  • The idea that Romanian housing prices are comparable to those in Western Europe is disputed, with some providing examples of affordable housing options in Romania.
  • The importance of considering factors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure when evaluating the cost of living in a country is highlighted.
  • The author's decision to prioritize time and freedom over higher earnings as a consultant is seen as a valid choice by some, while others think it's a luxury they cannot afford.