As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Backend Developer I in the United States is $81,914 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $39.
However, a Backend Developer I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Backend Developer I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Backend Developer I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Backend Developer I | $81,577 |
| Intermediate Level Backend Developer I | $82,107 |
| Senior Level Backend Developer I | $83,553 |
| Specialist Level Backend Developer I | $83,843 |
| Expert Level Backend Developer I | $84,036 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Backend Developer Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how a Backend Developer I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on January 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Backend Developer I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Applications Programmer II | $95,278 | 16% |
| Software Architect II | $94,494 | 15% |
| Backend Developer II | $104,785 | 28% |
| Full Stack Developer II | $105,746 | 29% |
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A Backend Developer I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Backend Developer I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Backend Developer I is $103,318.
The highest pay for Backend Developer I is $94,257.
The lowest pay for Backend Developer I is $73,279.
Develops, builds, and maintains scalable back-end solutions for server applications. Implements and tests web services and API's utilizing standard frameworks and source control tools to ensure product functionality, speed, and security. Collaborates with frontend developers, product managers, and designers to deliver server-side applications and integrate user-facing elements. Knows commonly used languages, development tools, and frameworks. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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