How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Full Stack Developer?
Published On January 24th, 2025 Engineering
So, you need a full stack developer in 2025.
Smart move.
Building great web apps requires top talent, but the cost can be a major concern. So, how much are we talking?
Look, there’s no magic number. Costs vary wildly based on location, experience, and how you hire (freelancer, in-house, full stack development company).
But here’s a quick snapshot: in the US, you’re looking at roughly $80,000 to $150,000 per year for a full-stack dev. That’s about $40 to $75 per hour. Of course, hot spots like Silicon Valley will cost you more.
And a study by Stack Overflow found that developers with 5-10 years of experience earn significantly more than those just starting out.
In this post, We’ll break down the real costs of hiring full-stack developers. We’ll explore different hiring models, geographical variations, and strategies to maximize your ROI.
Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
What is the Cost of Hiring a Full Stack Developer?
The cost to hire a full-stack developer can range from $50 to $200 per hour, depending on various factors. However, in regions like the USA, hourly rates are typically between $50 and $150 per hour, while full-stack developers in Eastern European countries like Poland and the UK may charge around €38.75 (about $42) per hour.
These costs can vary based on the developer’s experience and location.
Years of experience is another factor that massively influences the cost to hire a full stack developer in 2025.
For example, a full stack engineer with 6 years of experience can expect an average salary of about $120,000 per year.
On the other hand, someone with less than a year of experience might be asking at least $81,910 on average.
Furthermore, gender differences also play their part in salary disparities.
An average female Full Stack developer earns $140,403 per year in the United States.
However, their male counterparts earn about $137,793 ($3000 less than females).
So, we have summarized the average cost of hiring full stack developers across different countries in the table below. (All data sourced from Glassdoor).
| Country | Average Cost of Hiring Full Stack Developer (Per Year) | |
| Minimum ($) | Maximum ($) | |
| United States | $73K | $100K |
| United Kingdom (London) | £30K | £70K |
| Australia | AUD 89K | AUD 125K |
| Brazil | BRL 10K | BRL 29K |
| Europe | €117K | €129K |
| Canada | $80K | $120K |
| UAE | AED 9.5K /Month | AED 39K/Month |
| India | $5,800 (480K INR) | $12,900 (1100K INR) |
Full Stack Developer Hourly Rate Based On Different Stacks
The hourly rate for full-stack developers varies depending on the specific stack they specialize in.
Below is a breakdown of the rates for popular full stack combos, which can also inform decisions for full stack mobile app development projects requiring web backend integration, as well as traditional web applications:
- MEAN/MERN Stack — These developers are in high demand due to the popularity of JavaScript frameworks. The hourly rate of a full stack web developer to hire MERN stack developers or MEAN stack developers typically ranges between $50 to $120.
- LAMP Stack — A more traditional stack, often used for web applications. The hourly rate full stack developer for LAMP stack is generally $30 to $100, depending on experience.
- Python-Django — Full-stack developers specializing in Python and Django usually command rates from $40 to $130 per hour, thanks to the versatility and demand of Python in both web and AI development.
- Ruby on Rails — Ruby developers tend to charge $50 to $150 per hour due to the scarcity of talent and the framework’s efficiency for quick application development.
The choice of the best stack will play an important role in the determination of your full development cost per hour for the stack and directly affects your development expenses.
Factors That Affecting the Cost of Hiring a Full Stack Developer
Hiring a full-stack developer for your project can often seem overwhelming.
However, understanding the factors that influence the hourly rate full stack developer can make this process a lot smoother
Let’s see some of the important factors that directly affect the overall cost of hiring a Full Stack Developer
1. Experience Level of Software Developers
Experience matters.
A junior developer with a year or two of experience will charge less compared to a seasoned professional with a decade under their belt.
Full-stack developers proficient in multiple programming languages, frameworks, and tools can command higher fees because they bring more value to your project.
Here is an average cost to hire Full Stack developers based on experience and skills:
| Position | Experience | Average Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Full-stack Developer | 1-3 years | $25 to $40/hour |
| Mid-Level Full-stack Developer | 3-5 years | $40 to $70/hour |
| Senior Full-stack Developer | 5+ years | $750 to $100/hour |
| Lead Full-stack Developer | 10+ years | $100 to $280+/hour |
Full-stack developers charge between $20 and $60 per hour on average. Those with greater experience may charge upwards of $100, depending on their education, technical abilities, and framework knowledge.
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2. Comparing the Cost of Hiring Fullstack Developers In Different Locations
The developer’s location plays a crucial role in determining the hourly rate for fullstack developers.
Here’s a quick comparison of rates across different regions:
- North America: Developers in the US and Canada typically charge the highest rates, ranging from $70 to $150 per hour. This is due to the high demand for tech talent and the cost of living.
- Western Europe: Countries like Germany, the UK, and France have full stack developers per hour rates of $50 to $120, depending on experience and project complexity.
- Eastern Europe: A popular outsourcing destination due to competitive rates and skilled talent. Developers in countries like Poland and Ukraine charge between $30 to $80 per hour.
- Asia: In India, the Philippines, and other Asian countries, the full stack developer hourly rate can range from $20 to $50, making it an affordable option for companies looking to cut costs without compromising quality.
- New Zealand and Australia: With rates ranging from $40 to $80 per hour, This country has become another key region for outsourcing full-stack development due to its growing tech ecosystem and time zone proximity.
Understanding these geographical cost differences helps you plan your budget effectively, ensuring you get the right expertise without overspending.
| Geographic Location | Average Salary | Hourly Rate | Additional Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asia | $15,000 to $50,000 | $20 to $50 | Lower living costs, fewer benefits |
| North America | $90,000 to $160,000 | $70 to $150 per hour | Higher living costs, extensive benefits |
| New Zealand and Australia | $80,000 to $120,000 | $40 to $80 | Moderate living costs, some benefits |
| Eastern Europe | €25,000 to €60,000 | $30 to $80 | Lower living costs, few benefits |
| Western Europe | €60,000 to €120,000 | $50 to $120 | Higher living costs, good |
3. Project Scope and Complexity
A small project with clear requirements and a simple structure will naturally cost less than a large, complex project with multiple features and integrations.
If your project requires extensive back-end development, complex database management, or intricate user interfaces, expect to pay more.
Here is an average cost to hire Full Stack developers based on project Scope and complexity:
| Project Size | Average Costs |
|---|---|
| Small Size Project | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Medium Size Project | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Large Size Project | $50,000 and above |
Additionally, projects that need ongoing maintenance and updates will also increase the overall cost.
4. Hiring Model and Salary Range
The hiring model you choose—whether full-time, part-time, freelance, or project-based—directly impacts your hourly and monthly expenses.
Full-time developers are ideal for long-term projects, part-time developers suit limited workloads, freelancers are best for short-term tasks, and project-based hiring works well for clearly defined scopes with specific deadlines and deliverables.
Full-Time (40 hours/week): ₹60,000–₹200,000/month
Part-Time (20 hours/week): ₹30,000–₹100,000/month
Freelance/Hourly: ₹1,000–₹3,000/hour
Project-Based: ₹500,000–₹10,000,000+
5. Company Reputation and Development Needs
Big names come with big price tags. Hiring a developer from a renowned tech company or an established agency will typically cost more than hiring a freelancer or a software developer from a smaller firm.
Why?
Established full stack development company offers additional benefits such as project management, quality assurance, and a team of experts.
On the flip side, smaller full stack development companies or individual freelancers can provide a more personalized experience and sometimes more flexibility.
6. Market Demand and Availability of Full Stack Developers
The tech industry is dynamic, and demand for certain skills can fluctuate. If there’s a high demand for full-stack developers with expertise in a particular technology, prices can soar.
For example, developers proficient in newer technologies like Node.js or React may charge more than those specializing in older frameworks.
According to Glassdoor, the hourly rate for full-stack developers typically ranges between $26 and $66 per hour.
However, in today’s fast-paced business world, having a full-stack developer is an asset to your team, and the investment often pays off in quality and efficiency.
The average full-stack developer salary in the USA is approximately $120,000 per year or $57.69 per hour.
Entry-level positions start at around $100,000 per year, while the most experienced developers can earn up to $155,000 per year.
According to Google, the yearly pay for a full-stack developer in the United States is approximately $165,385, which is 44% above the national average.
7. Support Costs and Additional Perks
Finally, the nature of the contract can influence costs. Long-term contracts or full-time hires may come with lower hourly rates compared to short-term or project-based contracts.
Additionally, when you decide to hire remote developers, considering a retainer basis can sometimes offer cost benefits and ensure availability when you need them, regardless of geographical boundaries.
| Contract Type | Cost Implication | Flexibility |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time Hire | Lower hourly rate | Less flexibility |
| Short-term Contract | Higher hourly rate | High flexibility |
| Retainer Basis | Cost benefits, availability | Moderate flexibility |
Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision when hiring a full-stack developer. Balancing cost with the quality of work and the specific needs of your project is key.
Remember, investing in a skilled developer can save you time and money in the long run by ensuring your project is done right the first time.
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How much does it cost to hire a programmer?
The cost of hiring software developers varies based on their expertise and experience. You’ll find entry-level coders charging around $30-50 hourly, while seasoned engineers ask for $80-140 per hour. Mid-level programmers typically fall in the $50-80 range. Remember, these rates often reflect the developer’s skill set, project complexity, and location.
What are the benefits of hiring Full-Stack Developers?
Full-stack developers are the ultimate one-person army for your tech projects. They’ll handle both front-end and back-end development, saving you money on hiring multiple specialists. Plus, they’re incredibly adaptable and can jump in wherever needed, making your development process smoother and faster.
How much does it cost to hire software developers across various regions?
Software developer costs vary dramatically by region. North American developers typically charge $100-150/hr, while Western European rates range from $70-100/hr. You’ll find more budget-friendly options in Eastern Europe ($40-70/hr) and Asia ($25-50/hr).
How do you hire Full-Stack developers for your project?
Start by clearly defining your project requirements and tech stack needs. Then, evaluate candidates based on their portfolio, hands-on coding tests, and experience with relevant technologies. You can find talented developers through tech job boards, freelance platforms, or by partnering with full-stack development company.
How can we reduce the cost of hiring MERN stack developers?
Cut costs without compromising quality by considering offshore development teams from regions with lower rates. Look into hiring junior developers for simpler tasks while having a senior developer oversee the work. You might also want to explore hiring on a project basis rather than full-time, or per-hour basics based on the requirements
Great blog!!! Its a super helpful content if you’re thinking about hiring a full stack developer. It breaks down all the costs involved so you know what to expect. Really saved me some headache!
I had no idea about the differences between hiring a dedicated full stack developer and a freelancer until I read this blog. Now I see why having a dedicated person can be worth the extra cost in the long run.
I’m glad the blog helped! A dedicated full stack developer offers consistency and a deeper project understanding, making them a great long-term investment despite the higher cost.
I’m so glad this blog talked about negotiating with full stack developers. It’s something I’ve been nervous about, but now I feel more confident going into those conversations.
Hi Tyler
Glad to hear the blog boosted your confidence!
The case studies were a nice touch. Seeing how other businesses benefited from hiring full stack developers helped me understand the real value they bring to a project.
I’m in the middle of hiring a full stack developer, and you gave me a clear idea of what to consider through this blog. Loved how they explained different pricing options and how to negotiate. Super practical!
Hi Reece,
Glad to hear the blog was helpful! Good luck with your hiring process!
The cost-benefit analysis section was super helpful. It made me think about the bigger picture and how hiring a full stack developer could impact my project in the long term.
Great breakdown of hiring costs for full stack developers! Very informative.
The detailed cost analysis in this blog is exactly what I needed. Great job!
Excellent breakdown of regional cost differences! It’s crucial to consider these variations when planning our budget for hiring a developer.
Absolutely! Understanding regional cost differences can make a significant impact on budget planning. It’s great that the blog covered this aspect so thoroughly.
This article clarified a lot of my doubts about full stack development costs. The insights on long-term investment versus short-term savings are especially valuable.
Glad to hear the article helped clear up your doubts! It’s great that the long-term vs. short-term insights were useful. Thanks for sharing your feedback!
I appreciate the detailed explanation of skill levels and how they impact costs. It’s helpful to know what to expect when hiring junior vs senior developers.
Hiring full stack developers seems cost-effective. You get a lot of value from someone who can work on all aspects of a project.
Absolutely right Logan! Hiring full stack developers is a smart choice. They offer great value by handling both front-end and back-end tasks, streamlining your project and cutting costs.
I didn’t realize the salary range for full stack developers was so varied depending on location. It really shows how much geography can impact hiring costs.
It’s surprising how location can shift salary ranges for full stack developers. It highlights just how geography plays a big role in hiring costs, making it crucial to consider regional differences when budgeting for your development team.
Experience levels definitely impact hiring costs. It’s good to know what to expect when budgeting for a full stack developer.
Seeing the cost differences across countries is enlightening. Outsourcing could be a viable option for cost-effective full stack development.
Considering the high demand, it’s clear why full stack developers are so essential. Their adaptability and efficiency are unmatched.
How does location impact the cost of hiring full stack developer?
Developer rates vary by location; those in high-cost areas command higher salaries compared to developers in regions with lower costs of living, affecting overall hiring costs.
How does hiring a full stack developer save on costs compared to hiring separate front-end developers and back-end developers?
Hiring a full stack developer is cost-effective since they handle both front-end and back-end tasks, eliminating the need for multiple specialists and reducing overall project costs.
What is the average cost to hire a full stack developer in different countries?
The average cost to hire a full stack developer differs globally. For instance, developers in the US and UK($70,000 to $120,000/yr) generally command higher salaries compared to other countries.
The article is more useful to me, but I would like to know if I hire a full stack developer is truly cost-effective in every aspect. Wouldn’t it sometimes be easy to hire specialised developers instead?
You mentioned that full stack developers can improve communication within a team. Can you elaborate on how they bridge gaps between front-end and back-end teams?
The blog mentioned gender pay disparity among full stack developers. How significant is this issue, and what can companies do to address it?
Can you clarify how the cost of living in different regions affects the cost of hiring full stack developers? Is it always cheaper to hire internationally?
It’s hard to see the salary differences by gender.
The section on comparing full stack developer hourly rates by region is insightful. How do time zone differences affect communication and project delivery when outsourcing to countries like India or Eastern Europe?
Hi RamK
Time zones can be tricky, but overlapping work hours and tools like Slack and Zoom help. Many companies use a hybrid model to ensure constant progress, even across time zones.
The cost breakdown for full stack developers was really helpful, but it still feels tricky to budget for larger projects. How do you recommend balancing cost with quality when hiring a developer?
Great question Kenton! Focus on mid-level developers with a proven track record in projects like yours. They offer a balance of affordability and skill. For complex projects, it’s worth investing in seasoned pros.
I’m curious about the support costs you mentioned. Are these usually factored into the developer’s hourly rate, or should they be considered separately?
Support costs can be additional, especially for long-term maintenance or updates. It’s good to clarify upfront if it’s included in the hourly rate or charged separately to avoid surprises later.
Interestingly, demand for specific tech stacks influences developer rates. Is it always better to hire someone who specializes in a popular stack like MEAN/MERN for future scalability?
Popular stacks like MEAN/MERN do offer scalability and future-proofing, but it depends on your project’s needs. If the stack fits your goals, it’s worth the investment for long-term growth.
You mentioned that full-stack developers proficient in newer tech like React charge higher rates. Do you think it’s worth hiring someone more experienced in these areas for smaller projects too?
It depends on the project’s complexity. For smaller projects, a junior developer with basic React skills might suffice. But for advanced features or future scalability, investing in expertise pays off.