Frontend Developer vs Data Engineer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Frontend Developer
Build user interfaces and web experiences using modern frameworks.
Data Engineer
Build and maintain data pipelines, warehouses, and ETL infrastructure.
Data Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $3,520/year (3%) higher than a Frontend Developer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Frontend Developer vs Data Engineer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Frontend Developer | Data Engineer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $192,184 | $202,499 | Frontend $10,315 |
| New York, NY | $161,096 | $131,540 | Frontend +$29,556 |
| Seattle, WA | $196,031 | $105,430 | Frontend +$90,601 |
| Austin, TX | $148,203 | $153,836 | Frontend $5,633 |
| Chicago, IL | $141,696 | $154,010 | Frontend $12,314 |
| Boston, MA | $178,445 | $179,962 | Frontend $1,517 |
| London, UK | £73,942 | £108,711 | Frontend $34,769 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$126,152 | CA$181,115 | Frontend $54,963 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Frontend Developer or Data Engineer earn more?+
A Data Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Frontend Developer is $135,980/year, compared to $139,500/year for a Data Engineer — a difference of $3,520 (3%).
Which has better career growth — Frontend Developer or Data Engineer?+
Frontend Developer roles are growing at 22% YoY while Data Engineer demand is growing at 34% YoY. Data Engineer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Frontend Developer to Data Engineer?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Frontend Developer or Data Engineer?+
Data Engineer has a lower AI automation risk (42% vs 44%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.