Backend Developer vs Full-Stack Developer salary
In United States, a backend developer earns about 3% more than a full-stack developer — $148,000 vs $143,000 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
Full-Stack Developer$143,000/yr
- Monthly
- $11,900
- Hourly
- $69
- Range
- $91,500–$205,900
- 10-yr outlook
- +17%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Backend Developer | Full-Stack Developer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $94,700 | $91,500 |
| 25th | $121,400 | $117,300 |
| Median | $148,000 | $143,000 |
| 75th | $180,600 | $174,500 |
| Senior (90th) | $213,100 | $205,900 |
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 full-stack developer earn more in United States?
- A backend developer earns more, at about $148,000 per year vs $143,000 for a full-stack developer — roughly 3% ($5,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
- A backend developer typically earns $94,700–$213,100, while a full-stack developer earns $91,500–$205,900 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 full-stack developer about $11,900.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in United States, a backend developer earns about $94,700 while a full-stack developer earns about $91,500 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in United States, a backend developer earns about $213,100 while a full-stack developer earns about $205,900 per year.
- Are backend developer and full-stack 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.