Web Developers vs. Software Developers: Who Earns More?
Software Developerss out-earn Web Developerss by $43K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Web Developerss land at $92,650 and Software Developerss 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 Developerss is Washington ($130,440); for Software Developerss 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 Developerss or Software Developerss?
Software Developerss earn more nationally. The median is $92,650 for Web Developerss versus $135,980 for Software Developerss, a difference of $43K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Web Developers or Software Developers?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
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 Developerss get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Web Developerss 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 Developerss earn $130,440 vs. $166,540 for Software Developerss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.