Software Developers on Upwork cost $10–$100/hr.

Learn about common cost factors to budget your hiring on the world's work marketplace.
Software Developers average prices bell curve

$10 $100

Median hourly rates (USD)*

How much do software developers make?

When considering hiring a software developer, it's important to understand the potential costs involved. This page provides a comprehensive overview of software developer hourly rates or salaries to help you make an informed decision.

Salary Range

The salary range for software developers can vary widely based on several factors. Here’s a quick overview based on recent data from Glassdoor:

General range across the United States: $70,000 – $120,000 annually

With specialized skills or extensive experience: Potentially higher than $120,000 annually

Hourly Pay

The hourly rates for software developers also vary based on experience and expertise.

  • Entry level: $20 – $40 per hour
  • Intermediate: $40 – $70 per hour
  • Expert: $70 – $150+ per hour

These rates are affected by the project's complexity, the required technologies, and the developer's proven track record.

How Much Will You Pay to Hire a Software Developer?

When you’re ready to hire a software developer, you’ll need to assess how your needs align with the wide-ranging pay scale. Understanding the factors influencing these costs and ultimate returns can help you budget effectively and choose the right developer.

Software development cost factors

Several factors can influence the cost of hiring a software developer:

  • Project complexity: More complex projects require more time and expertise
  • Developer experience: More experienced developers typically charge higher rates
  • Technology stack: Specialized technologies can increase costs
  • Project duration: Longer projects may offer different rates compared to short-term tasks
  • Location: Developers in different regions may have varying rates

Example Software Development Services

Here are five examples of software development projects on Upwork:

  1. Simple website development: Creating a basic website with standard functionalities
  2. E-commerce platform: Building an online store with payment integration
  3. Mobile app development: Developing a native mobile application for iOS or Android
  4. Custom software solutions: Developing a tailored software solution for business needs
  5. API integration: Integrating third-party APIs into existing systems

FAQ

Here we answer common questions that clients have when hiring software developers.

What is the typical turnaround time for a software development project?

Turnaround times vary based on project complexity. Small projects can take a few weeks, while larger projects may take several months.

How do I ensure the quality of work from a software developer on Upwork?

Before hiring the developer, review portfolios, check client feedback, and conduct interviews. These practices will help you find the best developer to ensure quality.

What technologies should I look for in a software developer?

The required technologies depend on your project. Common skills include JavaScript, Python, Java, and C#.

Can I hire a software developer for ongoing maintenance?

Yes, many developers offer ongoing support and maintenance services either independently or as follow-on services after creating a product.

How do I handle intellectual property rights for my project?

Ensure that your contract specifies IP rights and ownership of the developed software.

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