PHP Developer Salary – Complete Guide

IT Staff Augmentation Team

October 10, 2023

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The average PHP developer salary in the United States in 2023 is around $105,000. Explore our comprehensive guide for detailed insights.

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It is important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in the tech industry. This is especially true for anyone looking to pursue a career as a PHP developer in the United States.

We have put together a comprehensive guide on PHP developer salaries in the USA for 2023. In this guide, we'll explore the salary landscape for PHP developers across the country, taking into account factors such as industry demand, location, and experience level. By the end, you'll have a complete understanding of the average salaries, trends, and earning potential for PHP developers in the USA.

So whether you're a seasoned PHP developer looking to stay ahead of the curve or just starting out in the industry, this guide has something for everyone. Let's go over the specifics!


Understanding The Role Of A PHP Developer

Before we delve into salary details, it's important to understand the role and responsibilities of a PHP developer. A PHP developer is a programming specialist who designs and develops web applications using the PHP programming language. They are responsible for creating and maintaining server-side web application logic, as well as integrating front-end elements with back-end services.

To learn more about PHP frameworks, read our article comparing PHP frameworks.

PHP Developer Salary - Bluebird Blog

To be a successful PHP developer, you need a strong foundation in programming concepts and knowledge of the PHP language. You should also be well-versed in database technologies, such as MySQL, and have experience working with different content management systems. Additionally, developers must be able to work seamlessly with front-end developers to integrate website designs into fully functional applications.

PHP developers work on a wide range of tasks, from creating database-driven websites and applications to developing custom content management systems and e-commerce platforms. They must possess strong debugging and troubleshooting skills to identify and resolve issues in the web application.


Average PHP Developer Salary in the USA

In this section, we'll dive deep into the average salary range for PHP developers in the United States. According to the latest data, the average salary for a PHP developer in the USA is $105,000 per year. This figure varies based on several factors, including experience level, industry, and location.

PHP Developer Salary in the USA

Average Salary

25th Percentile

75th Percentile

Entry-level PHP Developer Salary

$92,000

$72,000

$116,000

Junior PHP Developer Salary

$101,000

$77,000

$134,000

Mid-level PHP Developer Salary

$105,000

$81,000

$136,000

Senior PHP Developer Salary

$133,000

$105,000

$168,000

At the entry-level, PHP developers earn an average salary of $92,000 per year. In contrast, mid-level PHP developers earn an average salary of $105,000 per year, while senior PHP developers earn an average salary of $133,000 per year.

When it comes to location, some cities offer significantly higher salaries than others. San Francisco, CA, has the highest average salary for PHP developers, at $126,000 per year. Other cities with higher than average salaries include New York, NYSeattle, WA, and Boston, MA. Meanwhile, cities like Chicago, ILMiami, FL, and Huntsville, AL, offer lower than average salaries for PHP developers.

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Lastly, it's important to note that industry can significantly impact PHP developer salaries. The highest paying industry for PHP developers is finance

Overall, the average PHP developer salary in the USA varies greatly based on a variety of factors. However, with the right skills, experience, and industry knowledge, PHP developers can earn a competitive salary in this thriving profession.

* last updated: 10/05/2023 - source of data: Glassdoor


Factors Influencing PHP Developer Salaries

When it comes to PHP developer salaries in the USA, several factors can significantly impact earning potential. Let's take a closer look at some of the key variables:

Experience Level

As with most professions, experience plays a critical role in determining PHP developer salaries. Entry-level developers typically earn less than mid-level professionals, who, in turn, earn less than senior developers. Senior developers often have a broader range of skills and expertise, and they may also hold managerial positions responsible for leading teams of developers.

Industry Demand

Industries with high demand for PHP developers often offer more competitive salaries. As PHP continues to be a popular language for web development, industries such as technology, e-commerce, and finance frequently seek skilled professionals, leading to higher salaries.

Company Size

The size of a company can also impact PHP developer salaries. Larger companies tend to offer higher wages to attract and retain top talent. In contrast, smaller firms may not have the financial resources to offer competitive salaries, although they may provide other benefits, such as flexible work arrangements, that appeal to developers.

Location

The geographic location of a PHP developer can significantly impact their earning potential. Salaries in major metropolitan areas with a high cost of living, such as New York City or San Francisco, are typically higher than in smaller cities or rural areas. Similarly, salaries in regions with a high concentration of tech companies, such as Silicon Valley, may also be higher.

Education and Training

PHP developers with advanced degrees or specialized training may earn more than those without. A college degree in computer science or a related field can provide valuable foundational knowledge, while certifications in PHP or related technologies can demonstrate expertise and enhance earning potential.

PHP Developer Salary - Bluebird Blog

PHP Developer Salary by Experience Level

As with most professions, PHP developers' salaries vary based on their experience level. Entry-level developers typically command less pay than mid-level or senior developers. The more experience you have, the more you can expect to earn, as you gain more knowledge and skills.

Entry-Level PHP Developer

Entry-level PHP developers typically have less than two years of experience. They may have recently graduated from college or completed a coding boot camp. Entry-level developers often handle basic tasks, such as debugging code and working on smaller projects while they develop their skills. On average, entry-level PHP developers in the United States earn an annual salary of $72,000 to $116,000.

Mid-Level PHP Developer

Mid-level PHP developers typically have two to five years of experience. They have gained some proficiency in multiple areas, including back-end development, server-side scripting, and database management. Mid-level developers often lead small teams and work on more complex projects. On average, mid-level PHP developers in the United States earn an annual salary of $81,000 to $136,000.

PHP Developer Salary - Bluebird Blog

Senior PHP Developer

Senior PHP developers typically have five or more years of experience. They have a deep understanding of multiple web development languages, including PHP, JavaScript, and HTML/CSS. Senior developers often lead large teams and work on complex projects, such as building custom content management systems or integrating applications. On average, senior PHP developers in the United States earn an annual salary of $105,000 to $168,000.

Keep in mind that these figures are averages and may vary based on factors such as location, industry, and company size. Additionally, individual companies may have their own salary structures and may pay above or below the average salaries reported here.

* last updated: 10/10/2023 - source of data: Glassdoor


PHP Developer Salary by Location in the USA

Location plays a critical role in determining PHP developer salaries in the USA. The average salary of PHP developers varies significantly based on region or city. Candidates looking for a higher salary may want to consider relocating to certain regions that have a higher demand for their skills and expertise.

Highest Paying Cities for PHP Developers in the USA

According to recent data, the cities with the highest average PHP developer salaries are San Francisco, CA - $126,000, New York, NY - $116,000, and Seattle, WA - $116,000. These cities have a remarkably high cost of living, so it’s essential to consider the cost of living index while interpreting the salary data.

PHP Developer Salary - Bluebird Blog

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PHP Developer Salary by City

Average Salary

25th Percentile

75th Percentile

San Francisco, CA

$126,000

$98,000

$162,000

Seattle, WA

$116,000

$91,000

$147,000

New York, NY

$116,000

$88,000

$152,000

Boston, MA

$108,000

$84,000

$138,000

Boulder, CO

$107,000

$83,000

$137,000

Austin, TX

$106,000

$82,000

$138,000

Atlanta, GA

$105,000

$81,000

$136,000

Philadelphia, PA

$104,000

$81,000

$135,000

Chicago, IL

$103,000

$81,000

$132,000

Miami, FL

$100,000

$76,000

$133,000

Raleigh, NC

$99,000

$77,000

$128,000

Huntsville, AL

$99,000

$78,000

$127,000

Highest Paying States for PHP Developers in the USA

According to Glassdoor, the highest average PHP developer salaries by state in the United States are found in California ($116,000), Washington ($110,000), and New York ($109,000). Candidates residing in these states have a better chance of securing higher salaries.

PHP Developer Salary - Bluebird Blog

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PHP Developer Salary by State

Average Salary

25th Percentile

75th Percentile

California

$116,000

$91,000

$150,000

Washington

$110,000

$86,000

$141,000

New York

$109,000

$84,000

$143,000

Massachusetts

$105,000

$83,000

$134,000

Texas

$102,000

$78,000

$134,000

Colorado

$102,000

$80,000

$131,000

North Carolina

$100,000

$79,000

$128,000

Illinois

$100,000

$80,000

$125,000

Georgia

$98,000

$75,000

$129,000

Pennsylvania

$94,000

$73,000

$122,000

Florida

$92,000

$71,000

$119,000

Alabama

$89,000

$70,000

$114,000

Factors that Affect PHP Developer Salary by Location

The cost of living, demand for PHP developers, and the local job market are the critical factors that influence PHP developer salaries by location.

For example, San Francisco has a higher average salary than New York, but it also has a higher cost of living index. Additionally, the demand for PHP developers in the tech industry is higher in San Francisco than other cities, making it an ideal place to work in terms of pay and job availability.

Overall, it's essential to consider the local job market, cost of living index, and demand for PHP developers while evaluating salary offers from potential employers. Candidates should research their location of interest and evaluate salaries based on industry trends and their professional experience level.


Industries with High PHP Developer Salaries

PHP developers are in high demand across various industries, and some of these sectors offer highly competitive salaries to attract and retain top talent.

PHP Developer Salaries by Industry

PHP Developer Salary by Industry

Average Salary

25th Percentile

75th Percentile

Financial Services

$117,000

$91,000

$150,000

Retail & Wholesale

$105,000

$81,000

$136,000

Information Technology

$105,000

$82,000

$136,000

Healthcare

$104,000

$81,000

$135,000

Manufacturing

$101,000

$79,000

$129,000

Telecommunications

$100,000

$79,000

$127,000

Information Technology

The Information Technology industry is one of the highest paying sectors for PHP developers. With the increasing demand for web applications and software development, PHP developers are needed to design, develop, and maintain websites and applications. Companies such as Google and Amazon offer some of the highest salaries to PHP developers in the industry.

Finance

The finance sector is the best paying industry for PHP developers. Financial institutions such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and American Express have a constant need for PHP developers to maintain and improve their websites and applications. With the rise of online banking and financial technology, PHP developers are increasingly in demand in this sector.

Senior PHP Developer Salary by the Fintech Industry by City

Senior PHP Developer Salary

Average Salary

25th Percentile

75th Percentile

San Francisco, CA

$161,000

$130,000

$201,000

New York, NY

$158,000

$125,000

$201,000

Seattle, WA

$155,000

$127,000

$189,000

Boulder, CO

$147,000

$118,000

$185,000

Chicago, IL

$144,000

$117,000

$179,000

Miami, FL

$143,000

$112,000

$185,000

Austin, TX

$142,000

$114,000

$177,000

Philadelphia, PA

$140,000

$113,000

$175,000

Atlanta, GA

$140,000

$113,000

$175,000

Boston, MA

$137,000

$112,000

$167,000

Huntsville, AL

$137,000

$111,000

$169,000

Raleigh, NC

$132,000

$106,000

$164,000

Importance of PHP Developers in the Financial Services Industry

Specializing in the fintech sector implies that a PHP developer is adept at crafting applications that adhere to stringent regulatory and compliance standards, while also ensuring optimal security and efficiency in financial data processing and transactions. For example, they might develop online banking platforms, investment portals, or peer-to-peer payment systems that enable seamless, secure, and instant monetary transactions.

Their role extends beyond mere coding, intersecting with ensuring financial data integrity, user experience precision, and embedding secure payment gateways. The blend of PHP's versatility and a developer's financial technological acumen precipitates solutions that are not only functionally rich but also attuned to the distinct nuances of financial operations.

Senior PHP Developer Salaries by Level of Experience

Years of Experience

Average Salary

25th Percentile

75th Percentile

4-6 years

$126,000

$101,000

$157,000

7-9 years

$131,000

$105,000

$164,000

10-14 years

$140,000

$1112,000

$176,000

15+

$150,000

$119,000

$190,000

IT Staffing Service Provider in the Financial Services Sector

Choosing Bluebird as an IT Staff augmentation firm specializing in fintech is synonymous with opting for a reservoir of proven expertise in financial technology projects. With a legacy of catering to high-caliber clients like Blackrock and MSCI, Bluebird not only brings to the table an enriched understanding of fintech intricacies but also guarantees a team that is conversant with the latest technological trends, regulatory norms, and security protocols in the financial domain, ensuring your projects are not just accomplished, but meticulously sculpted to perfection.

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Future Outlook for PHP Developer Salaries

As we look ahead to the future of PHP developer salaries, it's clear that demand for skilled developers will continue to grow. The rise of new technologies such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity will create new opportunities for PHP developers to showcase their expertise.

Additionally, as more companies continue to expand their digital presence, the demand for PHP developers will remain high. The e-commerce industry, in particular, is expected to experience significant growth, creating new opportunities for developers with experience in PHP frameworks such as Magento and WooCommerce.

Advancements in mobile app development will also contribute to the growing demand for PHP developers. As more businesses invest in creating mobile apps, developers with expertise in PHP frameworks such as Laravel and Symfony will be in high demand.

Overall, the future looks promising for PHP developers looking to advance their careers and increase their earning potential. With continued growth in the tech industry and the increasing demand for skilled developers, PHP developers can expect to earn competitive salaries and enjoy numerous opportunities for career growth and advancement.


Summary

Our comprehensive guide has provided valuable insights into the salary landscape for PHP developers in the United States in 2023.

We've discussed the average salaries and regional trends, as well as the factors that impact earning potential, such as experience level, location, and industry. As we've seen, the demand for PHP developers continues to grow, especially in sectors such as technology, and finance.

With advancements in technology and the emergence of new sectors such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, the demand for PHP developers will likely continue to rise in the future.

We hope our guide has provided useful information for you. Thank you for reading!


FAQ

What is the average salary range for PHP developers in the USA?

The average salary range for PHP developers in the USA varies depending on factors such as experience level, location, and industry. However, on average, PHP developers can expect to earn between $81,000 and $136,000 per year.

PHP Developer Salary - FAQ - Bluebird Blog

What factors influence PHP developer salaries?

Several factors can impact PHP developer salaries, including experience, education, industry demand, company size, and location.

How does PHP developer salary vary based on experience level?

PHP developer salaries tend to increase with experience. Entry-level PHP developers can expect to earn around $72,000 to $116,000 per year, mid-level developers can earn between $81,000 to $136,000 per year, and senior PHP developers can earn more than $133,000 per year.

Which industries offer high salaries for PHP developers?

Industries such as information technology, and finance are known for offering competitive salaries to PHP developers.

What are the highest paying cities for PHP developers in the USA?

Some of the highest paying cities for PHP developers in the USA include San Francisco, New York City, and Seattle.

What is the future outlook for PHP developer salaries?

The future outlook for PHP developer salaries is promising. With advancements in technology and increasing demand for PHP developers in sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and mobile app development, salaries are expected to continue rising.


Please check out our other blog posts for salary information on other IT roles:


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