Pay by Role
India · Salary comparison

Backend Developer vs Data Engineer salary

In India, a data engineer earns about 42% more than a backend developer $33,301 vs $23,457 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is INR). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Technology
Backend Developer
$23,457/yr
Monthly
$1,955
Hourly
$11
Range
$15,013$33,778
10-yr outlook
+16%
Pays more
Technology
Data Engineer
$33,301/yr
Monthly
$2,775
Hourly
$16
Range
$21,313$47,953
10-yr outlook
+30%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileBackend DeveloperData Engineer
Entry (10th)$15,013$21,313
25th$19,235$27,307
Median$23,457$33,301
75th$28,618$40,627
Senior (90th)$33,778$47,953

National India figures in INR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a backend developer or data engineer earn more in India?
A data engineer earns more, at about ₹31,80,000 per year vs ₹22,40,000 for a backend developer — roughly 42% (₹9,40,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in India?
A backend developer typically earns ₹14,33,600–₹32,25,600, while a data engineer earns ₹20,35,200–₹45,79,200 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in India?
On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about ₹1,86,700 and a data engineer about ₹2,65,000.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in India, a backend developer earns about ₹14,33,600 while a data engineer earns about ₹20,35,200 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in India, a backend developer earns about ₹32,25,600 while a data engineer earns about ₹45,79,200 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.