by Sarah Cage
WordPress has a whopping 60.8% share in the CMS market and powers nearly 15% of the world's websites. Some figures state that 500+ sites are built every single day using WordPress. You might be wondering if you should start a career as a WordPress developer or what the average WordPress developer salary is so that you can hire someone to design websites for you.
In this article, we'll look at the average hourly rate for WordPress developer freelancers and full-time employees.
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WordPress development is a highly lucrative industry, with over 400 million websites powered by WordPress, representing more than a third of all active websites. WordPress developers are in high demand, both among growing companies and independent freelancers. The field covers a wide range of work, including frontend and backend website development, and salaries for WordPress developers vary depending on roles and responsibilities.
There is no standard market rate for WordPress developer salaries due to the diverse nature of the field. The concept "WordPress developer" is often used as a catch-all phrase for professionals working on WordPress websites, ranging from building the site to managing it on a day-to-day basis. This discrepancy in roles and responsibilities can result in vastly different salaries for similar job titles, e.g., a
WordPress plugin developer salary might be vastly different from that of a WordPress front end developer salary.
Therefore, it's crucial to compare WordPress developer salaries focused on your specialty or the specialty you are looking for to ensure that you are being compensated fairly and maximizing your earning potential.
Experience and location can play a big role in how much a WordPress developer can earn. Generally speaking, developers living in big cities like London or New York have the biggest earning potential, but with remote work becoming more popular, that is beginning to change.
Entry-level WordPress developers with zero to two years of experience typically earn lower salaries compared to more experienced developers. According to data from ZipRecruiter and Payscale, the average annual salary for junior or entry-level WordPress developers is around $40,000.
Many WordPress developers also work as freelancers, and pay estimates for freelancers vary widely due to global rates and the diversity of freelance marketplaces. Some freelancers charge on a per-project basis, while others use hourly rates. Global freelance marketplaces, such as Upwork, Fiverr, and People per Hour, offer hourly rates ranging from $30 to $175 per hour for U.S. freelance WordPress developers, with the average rate being around $70 per hour. However, rates are lower for freelancers from other countries, with averages ranging from $15 to $28 per hour.
On the other hand, specialized freelance marketplaces, such as Codementor or Codeable, typically have a vetting process in place where freelancers are required to take tests to prove their skills before being hired. Due to the vetting process, freelancers on specialized marketplaces can command higher rates, especially in countries with a higher cost of living, like the United States.
To increase your salary as a WordPress developer, there are several strategies you can implement. First, continually update your skills and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in WordPress and web development. Acquiring specialized skills, such as in plugin or theme development, can also command higher rates.
Networking and building a strong professional network can also lead to higher-paying opportunities, as word-of-mouth referrals and recommendations can often result in more lucrative projects. Building a strong online presence, such as through a professional website or a portfolio showcasing your work, can also attract higher-paying clients.
Negotiating your rates during interviews or when discussing project contracts is another way to increase your salary as a WordPress developer. Researching industry-standard compensation and comparing it with the offers you receive can give you leverage in negotiations and help you secure higher pay.
To find a job as a WordPress developer, you should consider the following steps.
You should try to polish your WordPress skills. Ensure you have a strong foundation in WordPress development. Familiarize yourself with core concepts like themes, plugins, custom post types, and the WordPress Codex. Develop proficiency in HTML, CSS, PHP, and JavaScript, which are essential for WordPress development.
The next step is to build a portfolio. Create a portfolio website to showcase your WordPress projects. Include a variety of websites or themes you have built, along with any customizations or additional functionalities you have implemented. Make sure your portfolio demonstrates your skills and expertise as a WordPress developer.
Then, you need to start utilizing job search platforms. Explore job search platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Stack Overflow Jobs. Use relevant keywords such as "WordPress developer," "WordPress engineer," or "WordPress programmer" when searching for job listings. Filter the results based on your location or preferences.
It will be extremely helpful to network within the WordPress community. Attend WordPress meetups, conferences, or WordCamps in your area. Engage with other WordPress developers, designers, and professionals. Networking can help you discover job opportunities, get recommendations, and connect with potential employers or clients. Join online communities, and participate in online forums, discussion boards, and social media groups dedicated to WordPress development. Engaging in these communities can provide valuable insights, job leads, and opportunities to collaborate with other developers.
You can unlikely find a job in the IT industry without LinkedIn. Use or create a LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is a popular platform for professionals to connect and find job opportunities. Build a strong LinkedIn profile that shows your WordPress skills, experience, and projects at their best. Connect with other professionals in the web development industry, including recruiters and potential employers.
Now it is time to apply to relevant job postings. Tailor your resume and cover letter highlighting your WordPress development skills and experience. Customize your application for each specific job listing, emphasizing relevant qualifications and accomplishments. Be sure to include your portfolio website and any certifications or courses you have completed.
You should consider joining freelancing platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer, or Toptal. Create a profile showcasing your WordPress expertise, skills, and experience. Bid on WordPress development projects that align with your abilities and interests. Freelancing can help you gain experience, build a client base, and establish your reputation as a WordPress developer.
It is critical to improve your skills continuously. Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in WordPress development. Follow influential WordPress blogs, join online courses or tutorials, and explore new plugins and technologies. Demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning can enhance your employability and make you stand out in the job market.
You have to stay prepared for interviews. Research common WordPress developer interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses. Be ready to showcase your portfolio and discuss your previous projects in detail. Practice coding exercises and be prepared to demonstrate your technical skills during technical interviews.
Please remember that finding a WordPress developer job may take time and effort. Stay persistent, keep learning, and leverage your network to increase your chances of success. Good luck!
Salaries for WordPress developers vary widely depending on factors such as experience level, location, and type of work. But with the right strategies in place, you can maximize your earning potential, thrive in this in-demand industry, and earn a top WordPress developer salary.
About Sarah Cage
Sarah Cage is an accomplished education writer known for her insightful and engaging work in the field. With a passion for empowering students and teachers alike, she has made a significant impact through her thought-provoking articles and research papers.
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