How to Build an App Like DoorDash: Features, Tech Stack & Cost Explained

The online food delivery industry has witnessed massive growth, and on-demand delivery apps stand as leading examples. If you want to develop a DoorDash clone, understanding its business model, features, technology stack, and costs is crucial.

Understanding the DoorDash Business Model

To develop a DoorDash-like app, you must first understand how the platform operates.

The Y-Shaped Business Structure

• Customers place orders via the app


• Partner restaurants list menus and manage sales.


• Drivers earn per delivery and tips.

Revenue Model of DoorDash

• Commission Fees – 15%–30% per order


• Delivery Fees – dynamic based on distance and demand


• Promoted listings – restaurants pay for visibility

Key Features of a DoorDash Clone App

To compete with DoorDash, your clone must include a full feature set.

Customer App Features

• Simple registration/login


• Advanced food search filters


• Real-time order tracking


• Secure gateway integration


• Ratings and reviews

Driver App Features

• Easy registration process


• Accept/reject delivery requests


• GPS navigation support


• Earnings dashboard

Restaurant Partner Features

• Real-time menu updates


• Order acceptance panel
custom food delivery app

• Sales analytics dashboard


• Discount campaign tools

Admin Panel Features

• Advanced dashboard with analytics


• User & restaurant management
delivery fees

• Delivery management tools


• Revenue monitoring features

Technology Stack for Building a DoorDash Clone

Your DoorDash clone app must be built on robust frameworks and APIs.

real-time order tracking

• Cross-platform mobile frameworks


• Backend: Node.js, Django, or Ruby on Rails


• Scalable data storage


• GPS tracking integration


• Multiple payment gateways


• Real-time user alerts


• Hosting: AWS, Azure, Google Cloud

Cost of Building an App Like DoorDash

Budgeting for a food delivery app involves several cost factors.

Estimated Cost Range

• Entry-level clone with core features


• Mid-Level App: $40,000–$70,000


• Scalable app with premium features

Development Cycle of a DoorDash Clone

1. Studying competitors & target audience


2. Design mockups


3. App coding phase


4. API integration


5. Bug fixing and optimization


6. Publishing on iOS & Android stores


7. Feature updates and scaling

Conclusion

Building a DoorDash clone app can be a profitable venture if executed strategically. Whether you choose a ready-made DoorDash clone script or a custom-built app, the food delivery industry offers huge potential in 2025 and beyond.