Hot Topic: Web Developer Income

By strict definition, web developers write code, build databases, and otherwise enable the backend functionality of a web site or web-based application. Here are some examples from Salary.com of median annual income for web developer jobs that fall into the web development category:

• Web Software Developer: $71,469
• Java Developer: $78,199
• Senior Java Developer: $96,976
• Web Applications Developer: $76,597
• Web Content Engineer Level I: $84,156
• Web Content Engineer Level II: $103,980
• Web Content Engineer Level III: $126,045

There are also many different types of jobs that fall under the broader umbrella of web development. These professionals are not always strictly defined as web developers, but they play an integral role in the process of building and maintaining a website.

Here are some examples of additional web development jobs and their median salaries, also from Salary.com:

• Web Designer: $64,008
• Website Manager: $95,004
• Web Content Manager: $80,588
• Interface Designer: $83,157
• Web Product Management Director: $134,046
• Web Security Administrator: $87,144
• E-commerce Strategy Manager: $106,570

With the economy improving and many businesses turning to technology and the Internet for a competitive advantage, income for web developers is expected to remain stable or improve in the coming years.

You can increase your income by standing out in the marketplace, by pursuing a degree or specialized certificate. The field of web development is always evolving, so you'll never run out of opportunities to enhance your abilities with web development training.

As of 2010, here are some of the most in-demand developer skills, programming languages and development systems. Income for web developers who are experts in one or more of these areas is often above average:

• .NET
• Java
• PHP
• Ruby on Rails
• AJAX
• Mobile application development
• Rich Internet Application (RIA) development
• WordPress
• Adobe Flash

The ability to connect with coworkers and clients—instead of just computers and code—is often referred to as having "soft skills." Web developers who take the time to cultivate these skills will increase their opportunities to get ahead and maximize income.

Income for web developers who communicate effectively with others and demonstrate team spirit can grow rapidly. These individuals are highly valued by their colleagues and supervisors. They help to bridge the gap between backend web development work and related disciplines, such as web design, marketing and product management. They are also much more likely to be promoted or given management responsibility as they gather business knowledge that can help them in the future.

If you think you have what it takes, and would like to earn the kind of web developer salaries mentioned above, start your research on All Computer Schools. Browse our directory of computer schools to find the web development program that's best for you. Get the computer training you need to succeed in this exciting career.