Web Developers
SOC code 15-1254 · O*NET-SOC 15-1254.00 · Medium preparation needed · Computer and IT
Bright Outlook — O*NET expects rapid growth for this occupation
Web Developers pay
U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number
Median pay
$92,650
a year
Hourly
$44.54
per hour
The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.
Average pay
$98,770
$47.49 per hour
Middle 50%
$64,230 – $126,230
25th to 75th percentile
Full spread
$48,100 – $162,290
10th to 90th percentile
People employed
70,190
nationwide
National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.
- 10th percentile
- $48,100
- $23.12/hr
- 25th percentile
- $64,230
- $30.88/hr
- Median percentile
- $92,650
- $44.54/hr
- 75th percentile
- $126,230
- $60.69/hr
- 90th percentile
- $162,290
- $78.03/hr
What does a web developer do?
Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.
The tasks that matter most day to day
- Write supporting code for Web applications or Web sites.
- Design, build, or maintain Web sites, using authoring or scripting languages, content creation tools, management tools, and digital media.
- Back up files from Web sites to local directories for instant recovery in case of problems.
- Select programming languages, design tools, or applications.
- Evaluate code to ensure that it is valid, is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers, devices, or operating systems.
- Develop databases that support Web applications and Web sites.
- Perform Web site tests according to planned schedules, or after any Web site or product revision.
- Perform or direct Web site updates.
How to become a web developer
Most people in this role hold bachelor's degree — 46% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.
Preparation level: zone 3 — Medium preparation needed
- Education
- Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
- Experience
- Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
- Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Education reported by people doing this job
- Bachelor's Degree46%
- Post-Secondary Certificate17%
- Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree17%
- High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)8%
Common questions
How much does a web developer earn?
The national median is $92,650 a year. The full range runs from $48,100 at the 10th percentile to $162,290 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.
Can you become a web developer without a degree?
Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 3, meaning the typical entry route is most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.
Skills and knowledge you need
Core skills
- Critical Thinking3.8/5
- Reading Comprehension3.6/5
- Active Listening3.5/5
- Active Learning3.5/5
- Speaking3.3/5
- Writing3.1/5
Knowledge areas
- Computers and Electronics4.4/5
- English Language3.5/5
- Mathematics3.4/5
- Communications and Media3.2/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.0/5
- Design3.0/5
- Engineering and Technology2.6/5
Transferable strengths: Programming, Complex Problem Solving, Operations Analysis, Judgment and Decision Making.