Salary Talk: What are Web Developers Earning? 

What is Web Development?

Let's start with the basics: what is web development? Put simply, web development is the process of building, maintaining, and managing functional websites. This can include everything from designing the visual layout of a site to writing the code that makes it run to ensuring that it's optimized for search engines and mobile devices. If you want to become a web developer, it's important to have a basic understanding of programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. With back-end development, you can write website code, ensure site functionality, and optimize server operation. With front-end development, you can design page layouts, incorporate graphics, and improve script performance. Or you can even work with both as a Full Stack Developer!

Be on the lookout for some popular web development job titles:

Want to learn more? Check out our breakdown of web development job titles here.

What Can You Make Working in Web Development?

Let's talk numbers. Potential salaries can vary depending on many factors, such as experience level, education, location, position, and more. It's also worth noting that web development salaries can vary depending on the specific skill set you bring to the table. Generally, the more experience you have, the higher your salary will be. Experienced developers often have a wider range of skills and can take on more complex projects.

Speaking of skills, certain ones are in higher demand than others. If you specialize in a particular programming language or have experience with a certain type of development, you may be able to command a higher salary. Where you live and work can also make a huge difference —- since the cost of living varies greatly depending on your location, web developers in larger cities may earn more. While startups may offer lower salaries, they may make up for it with other benefits like stock options or a more flexible work schedule. It's important to consider all of these factors when negotiating your salary and deciding where to work.

Web development is a global profession, so salaries can vary significantly depending on where you live. Let’s look at the average salaries in web development around the world.

No matter where you live and work, one thing is clear: web development is a high-demand field that offers strong earning potential. As more and more businesses move online, the need for skilled web developers continues to grow.

Why Should You Work in Web Development?

Well, that sounds all well and good, but why should you consider a career in web development? For one thing, web development offers a lot of variety and creativity. From building basic websites to creating complex web applications, there’s plenty of different projects and challenges. While coding might not seem like the most creative pursuit at first glance, there's actually a lot of room for innovation and experimentation. Whether you're designing a sleek, modern e-commerce site or a whimsical, colorful blog, web development allows you to flex your creative muscles and build something that's uniquely your own!

Perhaps even more importantly, web development offers a lot of flexibility. Many web developers work remotely, which means you can work from anywhere in the world — as long as you have a reliable internet connection. Even if you do work in an office, the hours are often flexible, which can be a huge perk for those who value work-life balance. As more and more businesses move online, the need for skilled web developers continues to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for web developers is expected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average growth for other occupations. This means there are plenty of job opportunities available for those with the right skills and experience.

How Can You Get Started in Web Development?

There are plenty of resources available to help you learn the skills you need, such as online courses, coding bootcamps, or even teaching yourself through books and tutorials. Online coding schools like Ironhack offer courses on everything from HTML and CSS to JavaScript and React, while sites like Stack Overflow and GitHub can provide helpful resources and forums for those who are just starting out.

Once you have the skills, there are several different paths you can take. You could work in a wide range of industries for a large tech company, a small startup, or even as a freelancer. The key is to find a niche that you're passionate about and to continue learning and growing as a developer. As you gain experience, you'll be able to command a higher salary and work on more challenging projects.

Web development is a rewarding and exciting career that offers a high demand for skilled professionals, endless possibilities for creativity and growth, flexibility in work location, and opportunities for lifelong learning. So what are you waiting for? Start learning with Ironhack’s Web Development Bootcamp!