Swift developers, due to the nature of their profession, have extensive experience in developing mobile applications; it is, in fact, a fundamental aspect of their role. Swift, a programming language developed by Apple, is specifically designed for iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS app development, therefore, a Swift developer's proficiency in mobile app development is typically a given. It is essential to note, however, that the level of experience can significantly vary between developers; some might be seasoned veterans in the field, while others may be just starting their journey. To add further complexity, the specific types of mobile applications a developer has experience with can also differ greatly, spanning from simple utility apps to complex games or business tools. When evaluating a Swift developer's experience, it is beneficial to consider not only the length of their experience but also the types of projects they have worked on; this will provide a more comprehensive understanding of their skill set and capabilities.

When it comes to understanding the latest technologies related to Swift development, it is crucial for the developer to be well-versed in both the core aspects of Swift and its evolving ecosystem. Swift, as a powerful and intuitive programming language for macOS, iOS, watchOS, and tvOS, is constantly being updated and improved upon; thus, a proficient Swift developer should ensure they are abreast with these updates and advancements. They should demonstrate familiarity with the latest versions of Swift, its accompanying frameworks like UIKit or SwiftUI, and the newest practices in iOS development. Moreover, their understanding of Swift should extend beyond the language itself; they should also comprehend how Swift interacts with Apple's development tools, such as Xcode, Interface Builder, and Instruments. Swift developers also ought to be knowledgeable in related technologies like Objective-C, as Swift is often used in conjunction with it in many legacy projects. Additionally, a demonstrated understanding of modern app architectures and design patterns, such as Model-View-Controller (MVC), Model-View-ViewModel (MVVM), or even newer paradigms like Combine and SwiftUI, would be a strong indicator of a developer's proficiency. Finally, it would be highly beneficial if the developer exhibits an understanding of backend technologies, such as server-side Swift development frameworks (like Vapor), and database technologies (like Core Data or Realm). Given Swift’s increasing popularity in server-side development, familiarity with these areas could be a significant advantage. In conclusion, gauging a developer's understanding of the latest Swift-related technologies involves assessing their knowledge of the Swift language, related tools and frameworks, design patterns, and backend technologies.

The cost to hire a Swift Developer can vary greatly, dependent upon a multitude of factors; these can include the developer's level of experience, the complexity of the project, and the developer's geographical location. As such, it's important to first identify your specific needs and budget before beginning your search for a Swift Developer. Generally speaking, a novice Swift Developer might charge around $20-$40 per hour, while a more experienced developer could charge upwards of $100 per hour. However, this is merely a ballpark figure; rates can significantly fluctuate based on the aforementioned factors. Determining whether this cost is worth it largely depends on the nature of the project at hand. If you have a simple task that doesn't require a great deal of expertise, it may be more cost-effective to hire a less experienced developer. On the other hand, for a more complex project, hiring an experienced developer could save you time and potential headaches down the line; even though their hourly rate may be higher, they may be able to complete the project more swiftly and efficiently, thereby reducing total hours billed. When comparing options, it's crucial to weigh the developer's experience, their past project portfolio, and their proposed cost. Remember, the most expensive option is not always the best, and the cheapest may not always provide the value you're seeking. It's about finding the right balance between cost and quality. Another factor to consider is ongoing maintenance and updates. Will you need the developer's services only for the initial creation of the application, or will you require ongoing support? If the latter, make sure to factor this into your budget as well. In conclusion, the cost of hiring a Swift Developer can vary widely, and whether it's worth it is largely dependent on your specific needs, budget, and the complexity of the project. It's important to do thorough research, compare options, and make an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget.