Quick Comparison
Devops Engineer
$113,333
avg. annual salary
Web Developer
pays more on average
Web Developer
$121,267
avg. annual salary
Understanding the salary landscape for tech roles is crucial, especially when comparing positions like DevOps Engineers and Web Developers. Both positions are integral to the tech industry but differ significantly in job responsibilities, required skills, and compensation. According to recent data, DevOps Engineers command a higher salary on average due to their specialized skills in automating and optimizing IT operations. In contrast, Web Developers focus more on building and maintaining websites, typically earning a lower salary. In this guide, we will delve into the specifics of each role's salary, benefits, and career progression to help you make informed career decisions.
Salary by Experience Level
Devops Engineer Entry
$80,000
starting salary
Web Developer Entry
$85,600
starting salary
Salary Difference
$7,933
avg. difference (7%)
DevOps Engineer Salary Overview
As of 2025, the average salary for a DevOps Engineer is estimated to be around $120,000, with entry-level positions starting at approximately $80,000. Mid-level engineers can expect to earn between $100,000 and $140,000, while experienced professionals in senior roles may command salaries upwards of $160,000.
Factors that influence DevOps salaries include years of experience, industry, and geographic location, with roles in major tech hubs like San Francisco or New York often paying at the higher end of the spectrum.
Web Developer Salary Overview
On average, Web Developers earn about $80,000 annually in 2025. Entry-level developers typically make around $55,000 to $65,000, while mid-level developers earn between $70,000 and $90,000.
Senior Web Developers and those specializing in high-demand technologies, such as front-end frameworks, can earn salaries approaching $100,000 to $120,000. As with DevOps Engineers, factors such as location and experience significantly influence salaries, with urban areas offering higher pay rates compared to rural locations.
Benefits Comparison
While salary is a critical factor, the benefits package can also significantly impact the overall compensation. DevOps Engineers typically receive more comprehensive benefits, including healthcare, retirement plans, and performance bonuses.
Also, they may have access to training and certification opportunities, given the fast-evolving nature of their field. Web Developers also enjoy benefits such as health insurance and paid time off, but these packages can vary more widely depending on the company and project type.
Career Paths in DevOps vs. Web Development
The career trajectory for both paths offers plenty of opportunities for advancement. A DevOps Engineer can progress to roles such as DevOps Architect or IT Operations Manager, often leading teams and making strategic decisions.
Conversely, a Web Developer may transition into roles such as Front-End Lead or Technical Project Manager, focusing on higher-level design and project oversight. Both paths offer paths to specialization, with DevOps Engineers delving into areas such as cloud infrastructure, while Web Developers can pivot towards UX/UI design.