In 2025, mobile and fullstack developers are in high demand, offering competitive salaries and growth opportunities. This article compares their salaries, roles, and market trends to help you choose the best career path.
Key Takeaways
Mobile Developer Salaries
What Does a Mobile Developer Do?
Mobile developers specialize in creating software applications for mobile devices. They work on iOS and Android platforms, often using tools like Swift, Kotlin, or cross-platform frameworks like React Native and Flutter.
Mobile Developer Salary Overview (2024)
- United States: $90,000 average, with high demand in tech hubs like San Francisco (up to $130,000).
- United Kingdom: £45,000 average.
- Canada: CAD 75,000 average.
Salary Breakdown by Experience
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): $60,000 to $80,000
- Mid-Level (3-5 years): $80,000 to $100,000
- Senior-Level (5+ years): $100,000 to $130,000
Key factors affecting salary:
- Specialization in iOS or Android development.
- Familiarity with cross-platform tools (React Native, Flutter).
Fullstack Web Developer Salaries
What Does a Fullstack Developer Do?
A fullstack developer handles both the front-end and back-end of a web application. They are proficient in languages and tools like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, and back-end technologies like Node.js, Express, and SQL.
Fullstack Developer Salary Overview (2024)
- United States: $95,000 average, with higher salaries in cities like New York ($120,000+).
- United Kingdom: £50,000 average.
- Germany: €55,000 – €75,000.
Salary Breakdown by Experience
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): $65,000 to $85,000
- Mid-Level (3-5 years): $85,000 to $110,000
- Senior-Level (5+ years): $110,000 to $140,000
Key factors affecting salary:
- Full knowledge of both front-end and back-end technologies.
- Proficiency in cloud services or microservices can increase salary potential.
Mobile Developer vs Fullstack Developer Salaries: A Detailed Comparison
Direct Salary Comparison: Mobile Developers vs Fullstack Developers
| Role | United States (Average) | United Kingdom (Average) | Canada (Average) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Developer | $90,000 | £45,000 | CAD 75,000 |
| Fullstack Developer | $95,000 | £50,000 | CAD 80,000 |
On average, fullstack developers tend to earn slightly more than mobile developers due to their broader skill set.
Factors Affecting Salary Differences
- Specialization: Mobile developers specializing in iOS or Android platforms may command higher salaries, especially in niche markets. Fullstack developers, due to their ability to handle both client-side and server-side tasks, often have higher salary potential.
- Experience Level: Experience in either field is a major determinant. Senior developers in both roles can expect significant pay increases, especially when working with high-demand technologies.
- Technological Expertise: Mobile developers with expertise in high-performance mobile applications, or fullstack developers with cloud or DevOps skills, can see higher salaries.
Demand for Mobile vs Fullstack Developers
- Mobile Developers: In high-demand industries like gaming, fintech, and healthcare, mobile developers are highly sought after for creating custom mobile apps.
- Fullstack Developers: With the ability to work across the entire stack, fullstack developers are indispensable in web application development and are highly favored by startups and enterprises alike.
Key Skills for Both Roles
Mobile Developer Skills
- iOS Development: Expertise in Swift and Objective-C.
- Android Development: Proficiency in Kotlin and Java.
- Cross-Platform Tools: Familiarity with React Native and Flutter.
- UI/UX Design: Knowledge of mobile UI guidelines and design patterns.
Fullstack Developer Skills
- Front-End Technologies: Expertise in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like React or Vue.
- Back-End Technologies: Proficiency in Node.js, Express, and database management (SQL/NoSQL).
- Cloud Services: Knowledge of platforms like AWS and Azure.
- Version Control: Familiarity with Git and collaborative tools like GitHub or GitLab.
Job Market Trends for Mobile Developers and Fullstack Developers
Job Market for Mobile Developers
With mobile usage at an all-time high, mobile developers are in great demand, especially for iOS and Android applications. Companies in sectors like retail, entertainment, and finance continue to invest in mobile-first strategies, boosting job opportunities for mobile developers.
Job Market for Fullstack Developers
Fullstack developers remain in high demand due to their ability to manage entire projects, from front-end to back-end. In fast-growing tech hubs and startups, fullstack developers are often preferred due to their versatility. The rise of web applications and the shift to cloud computing also contribute to the robust job market for fullstack developers.
Conclusion
Both career paths offer lucrative opportunities. Choose mobile development if you enjoy creating apps or fullstack development if you prefer versatility across front-end and back-end technologies. Consider your interests and long-term goals to decide the best fit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which role offers higher salaries in 2024, mobile or fullstack development?
Fullstack developers typically earn higher salaries on average due to their versatility and broader skill set.
Is it easier to switch from mobile development to fullstack development?
Yes, many mobile developers transition to fullstack development by learning back-end technologies such as Node.js or databases.
What are the essential skills for a fullstack developer?
Fullstack developers should be proficient in both front-end technologies like JavaScript and frameworks like React, as well as back-end technologies like Node.js and databases.
How do location and experience affect developer salaries?
Developers in tech hubs such as San Francisco or New York typically earn more. Additionally, senior-level developers with specialized skills earn higher salaries.
Can freelance mobile developers earn more than fullstack developers?
Freelance mobile developers can earn high rates, especially if they specialize in sought-after platforms like iOS or Android. However, fullstack developers also command competitive freelance rates.
What’s the job outlook for mobile and fullstack developers in 2024?
Both roles have strong job prospects, with mobile developers benefiting from the growth of mobile-first applications, and fullstack developers in demand due to their versatility in web development.
