Short version: a single-purpose AI agent typically costs €1,500–€25,000 to build, and €200–€2,500 per month to run. The range is wide because "an AI agent" can mean anything from a scripted FAQ bot to a multi-step system that reads your data and takes actions.
What you're actually paying for
The build cost is mostly engineering time, and that scales with three things:
- How many jobs it does. One task done well is far cheaper than a general assistant.
- How many systems it touches. Reading a Google Sheet is easy; orchestrating your CRM, email, and billing is not.
- How wrong it's allowed to be. A draft-writing helper tolerates mistakes; an agent that issues refunds does not — and that safety work costs money.
Rough 2026 ranges
- Single-purpose agent (support replies, lead qualification, data entry): €1,500–€25,000 build, €200–€800/month to run.
- Multi-agent workflow (3+ agents with orchestration and memory): €25,000–€100,000 build, €1,000–€3,000/month.
- Enterprise autonomous platform: €250,000+.
How to spend less and get more
Start with the single task that's costing you the most time. Build the smallest agent that solves it, measure the hours saved, and only expand where it pays off. That's exactly how we scope engagements — the starter offer exists for this reason.
Want a real number for your case? Tell us the task and we'll give you a straight estimate.