Web Developers vs. Software Developers: Who Earns More?
Software Developers out-earn Web Developers by $43K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Web Developers land at $92,650 and Software Developers at $135,980. The education gap is real: web developer programs typically require bachelor's degree, while software developer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Web Developers is Washington ($130,440); for Software Developers it's California ($174,410).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Web Developers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Web Developers or Software Developers?
Software Developers earn more nationally. The median is $92,650 for Web Developers versus $135,980 for Software Developers, a difference of $43K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Web Developers or Software Developers?
Software Developers has the better 10-year outlook at 15.8% projected growth, compared to 7.5% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Web Developers or Software Developers?
Web Developers typically requires bachelor's degree. Software Developers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Web Developers get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Web Developers at $130,440/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Web Developers vs. Software Developers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Web Developers earn $130,440 vs. $166,540 for Software Developers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.