⭐ Bright Outlook

Web Developers

O*NET 15-1254.00 · SOC 15-1254

Web Developer is a solid career choice. Median pay is $93k a year with +3.8% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 5,300 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.

Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27

Projected Growth
+3.8%
2025–2035
Median Salary
$93k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
5k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

What You'd Actually Do

  • →Build responsive websites using HTML/CSS/JavaScript
  • →Optimize site performance and SEO
  • →Integrate APIs and backend services
  • →Debug cross-browser compatibility issues
  • →Maintain and update existing sites

Education & How to Get In

📋
Job Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

Most Web Developer positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.

Get Started Learning

Ready to start building skills for a career as a Web Developer? These platforms offer courses you can start today, many with free trials or financial aid.

Coursera
University-backed courses and certificates
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Udemy
Affordable self-paced courses from $12.99
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Skillshare
Creative and professional skill classes
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LinkedIn Learning
Professional development with certificates
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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Structured, offices, data centers, or remote

Work Style

Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins

A Day in the Life

While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Web Developer involves a mix of core responsibilities:

MorningBuild responsive websites using HTML/CSS/JavaScript
MiddayOptimize site performance and SEO
AfternoonIntegrate APIs and backend services

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Conventional (Organizers)5.0
Investigative (Thinkers)5.0
Artistic (Creators)3.1
Realistic (Doers)3.0
Enterprising (Persuaders)3.0
Social (Helpers)2.2

Who Thrives as Web Developer?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

INTJThe StrategistISTJThe InspectorENTJThe CommanderINTPThe Thinker

Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →

See Open Web Developer Roles

Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.

Indeed ↗LinkedIn Jobs ↗ZipRecruiter ↗

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Job Outlook

Employment of Web Developers is projected to grow 3.8% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.

Will AI Replace This Job?

41/100Moderate, likely AI-complementary
  • ·38% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
  • ·26% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace

Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.

Common Questions

How much does a Web Developer make?

The median Web Developer earns $93k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.

Will AI replace Web Developer jobs?

Our model puts Web Developer at 41 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 38% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 26% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.

Is Web Developer a growing field?

Employment is projected to grow 3.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 5,300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.

What degree do you need to be a Web Developer?

Most Web Developer roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.

How long does it take to become a Web Developer?

Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.

Is a Web Developer career right for you?

Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.

Take the assessment →

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