Developer Pay: What Web Developers Earn in 2025
If you’re wondering how much a web developer makes today, you’re not alone. The tech market moves fast, and salaries can jump based on location, experience, and the type of work you do. Below you’ll get a straightforward look at the numbers, the reasons behind them, and simple ways to boost your paycheck.
Average Salaries by Role and Region
In 2025 the median base salary for a full‑stack web developer in the UK sits around £55,000 a year. Front‑end specialists earn a bit less, typically £48,000, while back‑end experts pull roughly £60,000. Big cities like London push those figures up 20‑30%, so a senior developer there can see £80,000 or more.
If you work remotely for a US‑based company, the pay scale shifts again. Many remote contracts quote rates in dollars, with junior developers earning $45‑60 k and senior engineers hitting $120‑150 k. The key is that remote work often ignores local cost‑of‑living, so you can earn a US rate while living in a cheaper city.
Freelancers set their own rates, but a common benchmark is $60‑$100 per hour for experienced full‑stack work. Projects that need niche skills—like serverless architecture or AI integration—can command $150‑$200 an hour.
What Drives Pay Differences?
Experience is the obvious driver. The first two years usually bring modest numbers, but after five years most developers see a 30‑40% bump. Certifications help, but real‑world projects speak louder to employers.
Technology stack matters too. Developers who master high‑demand frameworks like React, Next.js, or Svelte tend to earn more than those stuck with older stacks. Likewise, knowing cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) adds a premium.
Company size and industry affect pay. Start‑ups often offer equity instead of high salaries, while established agencies and fintech firms pay cash bonuses and clear salary bands.
Negotiation skill is a hidden factor. Many developers accept the first offer, leaving money on the table. Preparing data, highlighting recent successes, and asking for specific benefits (training budget, flexible hours) can raise the final package by 5‑15%.
Finally, benefits beyond salary—like health insurance, pension contributions, and paid learning—add real value. When you compare offers, factor those in.
Quick Tips to Increase Your Earnings
- Pick a high‑growth stack (React, Next.js, TypeScript) and become proficient.
- Earn a cloud certification (AWS Cloud Practitioner, Azure Fundamentals).
- Build a portfolio with real projects that show end‑to‑end results.
- Track your achievements (e.g., reduced page load by 30%). Use those numbers in salary talks.
- Consider remote or contract work to tap into higher‑pay markets.
- Ask for a salary review after 6‑12 months of proven performance.
Bottom line: developer pay isn’t a mystery. By understanding market ranges, focusing on in‑demand skills, and negotiating confidently, you can shape a salary that matches your worth.
