Backend Developer
$108,333
avg. annual salary
React Developer
pays more on average
React Developer
$116,716
avg. annual salary
The tech industry continues to evolve, bringing new roles and technologies to the forefront. Among these roles, Backend Developers and React Developers play critical parts in software development. Understanding their salary landscape is essential for both aspiring professionals and employers. In 2025, salaries for Backend Developers and React Developers can vary significantly based on experience, location, and specific skill sets. This guide provides a comprehensive comparison of the two positions, including average salaries, benefits, and potential career paths, helping you make informed decisions whether you're considering a career switch or hiring top talent. Let’s dive into the details.
Salary by Experience Level
starting salary
starting salary
avg. difference (8%)
Average Salaries Overview
As of 2025, the average salary for a Backend Developer hovers around $105,000 per year. Salaries in this role generally range from $85,000 to $130,000, depending on experience level and location.
In contrast, React Developers typically earn an average salary of $90,000, with a salary range between $70,000 and $120,000. Backend Developers tend to earn more due to the complexity and scope of their work involving server-side programming, database management, and API integrations.
Salary by Experience Level
For Backend Developers, entry-level positions start around $85,000, while mid-level professionals can make around $110,000. Senior Backend Developers can command salaries exceeding $130,000.
On the other hand, entry-level React Developers can expect to earn approximately $70,000. Mid-level React Developers typically earn around $90,000, with senior roles reaching up to $120,000.
Benefits and Perks
Both Backend Developers and React Developers often receive similar benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and flexible working hours. Some companies may offer additional perks such as remote work options, professional development funds, and wellness programs.
However, due to the demand for these skills, Backend Developers may receive slightly higher bonuses or profit-sharing opportunities coupled with their salaries.
Career Paths and Growth Opportunities
Both careers offer excellent growth opportunities. Backend Developers may advance to positions like Software Architect or Technical Lead, whereas React Developers might transition to roles such as Frontend Architect or Full Stack Developer.
The demand for skills in both areas continues to grow, often leading to opportunities in leadership and specialized roles. Continuous learning and adaptation to new frameworks and technologies are crucial for progression in both fields.
Detailed Salary Comparison: Backend vs React (2025)
Backend developers (API, databases, systems) earn slightly more on average than React developers in 2025. Typical U.
S. medians: Backend $125,000/year (range $80k–$180k); React/front-end $115,000/year (range $70k–$170k).
Senior backend engineers in cloud/microservices roles can exceed $180k base, while senior React engineers at FAANG-size firms commonly reach $160k–$190k including bonuses. Full‑stack roles that list both Node/Express and React often pay a 5–15% premium over single-focus front-end jobs.
Remote positions vary: remote-first startups may pay 5–15% less than local market rates; major tech hubs (SF, NYC, Seattle) pay 10–30% more. Takeaway: choose backend for higher ceiling; choose React for quicker entry and more front-end demand.
Key Factors That Affect Salary (and What You Can Do)
Several concrete factors shift pay between backend and React roles:
- •Experience: Jump from mid to senior (3→5+ years) often increases pay 25–40%.
- •Language/stack: Go or Java backend roles typically pay 10–20% more than entry-level Node.js roles; TypeScript React roles pay 5–10% over plain JavaScript.
- •Cloud and architecture: AWS/GCP certifications can add 10–20% to backend offers; experience with microservices, Kubernetes, or databases (Postgres, Redis) raises value.
- •Industry & company size: Finance and ML startups pay 15–35% above average; early-stage startups may offer equity instead of cash.
Actionable takeaway: target one high-value skill (e. g.
, Go + Kubernetes or TypeScript + performance optimization) and quantify results on your resume to boost offers.