Backend Developer vs Data Engineer salary
In United Kingdom, a data engineer earns about 48% more than a backend developer — $187,419 vs $126,374 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is GBP). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Technology
Data Engineer$187,419/yr
- Monthly
- $15,663
- Hourly
- $90
- Range
- $119,948–$269,883
- 10-yr outlook
- +30%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Backend Developer | Data Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $80,858 | $119,948 |
| 25th | $103,616 | $153,683 |
| Median | $126,374 | $187,419 |
| 75th | $154,219 | $228,651 |
| Senior (90th) | $181,930 | $269,883 |
National United Kingdom figures in GBP. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
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Frequently asked questions
- Does a backend developer or data engineer earn more in United Kingdom?
- A data engineer earns more, at about £140,000 per year vs £94,400 for a backend developer — roughly 48% (£45,600) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in United Kingdom?
- A backend developer typically earns £60,400–£135,900, while a data engineer earns £89,600–£201,600 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in United Kingdom?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about £7,900 and a data engineer about £11,700.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in United Kingdom, a backend developer earns about £60,400 while a data engineer earns about £89,600 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in United Kingdom, a backend developer earns about £135,900 while a data engineer earns about £201,600 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.