Web Developer FAQ

Not always. Many are hired based on skills and portfolios, though a degree is common and preferred by some employers.

Many people become job-ready in six months to two years of focused study and project work.

Front-end covers what users see in the browser; back-end covers servers, databases and APIs.

The median annual wage for web developers was $92,650 ($44.54 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $48,100 and the highest 10% earned more than $162,290.

Most people need about 6 months to 4 years of training. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, often in computer science or a related field. Many developers instead learn through bootcamps, online courses and self-study and are hired based on portfolios.

Not necessarily. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, but many web developers are self-taught or bootcamp-trained and get hired on the strength of a portfolio.

It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +3.8% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 5,300 openings each year. Upsides include strong pay and remote options; a common challenge is that competitive entry-level market.

Key technical skills include html, css and javascript, a front-end framework such as react, responsive design, and git and version control. Employers also value problem-solving, attention to detail, and collaboration.

Common credentials include Portfolio of projects, Meta Front-End Developer Professional Certificate, freeCodeCamp certifications, and AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner. Requirements vary by state and employer.