How Much Do Web Developers Make?

Web Developers have a median annual income somewhere between $78,000 (Indeed) and $88,000 (Glassdoor). The average salary for Web Developers in the United States is $71,531 according to Indeed, with Senior Developers averaging $95,325. That makes web development one of the most lucrative positions that do not require a degree, with many Developers far surpassing these averages.

An important thing to consider when looking at Developer salaries is that these numbers will almost certainly continue their upward trajectory.

A report from the market research firm Forrester predicted that employers who were slow to attract critical digital talent would wind up paying up to 20 percent above market salary rates for in-demand talent – and Web Developers and Software Engineers are among the hardest jobs to fill. Unsurprisingly, they are also among the most likely to see their salaries rise.

A lot of really good Web Developers will decide to become self-employed contractors. Those who choose to take on freelance work have more flexibility in what they decide to charge, signing contracts between $50 and $100 an hour. A more established contract Developer can easily earn six figures annually and have a large client base and busy workload.

If you are just starting out as a contract or freelance Developer, make sure to charge based on the value of the project, what you’re bringing to the company, and have it reflect your experience as a Developer.