Backend Developer vs Data Engineer salary
In Germany, a data engineer earns about 55% more than a backend developer — $205,294 vs $132,301 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is EUR). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Technology
Data Engineer$205,294/yr
- Monthly
- $17,108
- Hourly
- $99
- Range
- $131,388–$295,624
- 10-yr outlook
- +30%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Backend Developer | Data Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $84,627 | $131,388 |
| 25th | $108,464 | $168,341 |
| Median | $132,301 | $205,294 |
| 75th | $161,384 | $250,459 |
| Senior (90th) | $190,468 | $295,624 |
National Germany figures in EUR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a backend developer or data engineer earn more in Germany?
- A data engineer earns more, at about 180.000 € per year vs 116.000 € for a backend developer — roughly 55% (64.000 €) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in Germany?
- A backend developer typically earns 74.200 €–167.000 €, while a data engineer earns 115.200 €–259.200 € per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in Germany?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about 9.700 € and a data engineer about 15.000 €.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in Germany, a backend developer earns about 74.200 € while a data engineer earns about 115.200 € per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in Germany, a backend developer earns about 167.000 € while a data engineer earns about 259.200 € per year.
- Are backend developer and data engineer similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Technology category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.