Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Backend Developer vs Frontend Developer salary

In United States, a backend developer earns about 4% more than a frontend developer $148,000 vs $142,000 per year.

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

Pays more
Technology
Backend Developer
$148,000/yr
Monthly
$12,300
Hourly
$71
Range
$94,700$213,100
10-yr outlook
+16%
Technology
Frontend Developer
$142,000/yr
Monthly
$11,800
Hourly
$68
Range
$93,400$201,400
10-yr outlook
+16%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileBackend DeveloperFrontend Developer
Entry (10th)$94,700$93,400
25th$121,400$117,700
Median$148,000$142,000
75th$180,600$171,700
Senior (90th)$213,100$201,400

National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a backend developer or frontend developer earn more in United States?
A backend developer earns more, at about $148,000 per year vs $142,000 for a frontend developer — roughly 4% ($6,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A backend developer typically earns $94,700–$213,100, while a frontend developer earns $93,400–$201,400 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about $12,300 and a frontend developer about $11,800.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a backend developer earns about $94,700 while a frontend developer earns about $93,400 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a backend developer earns about $213,100 while a frontend developer earns about $201,400 per year.
Are backend developer and frontend developer 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.