That's a yearly cost, but you only need to keep renewing if you are signing and releasing new apps or updates. Existing apps you've signed will remain valid if if you don't renew your cert (unlike websites etc.)
Also, it seems that the LARGE cost for the EV certs is only really needed for things like Windows drivers.
https://www.ssl.com/certificates/code-signing/buy/
That's a yearly cost, but you only need to keep renewing if you are signing and releasing new apps or updates. Existing apps you've signed will remain valid if if you don't renew your cert (unlike websites etc.)
Also, it seems that the LARGE cost for the EV certs is only really needed for things like Windows drivers.