Web Developer vs AR/VR Developer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Web Developer
Build and maintain websites and web applications.
AR/VR Developer
Build augmented and virtual reality experiences for gaming, enterprise, and training.
AR/VR Developer earns more on average — the national median is $31,980/year (31%) higher than a Web Developer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Web Developer vs AR/VR Developer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Web Developer | AR/VR Developer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $147,801 | $194,489 | Web $46,688 |
| New York, NY | $122,892 | $166,830 | Web $43,938 |
| Seattle, WA | $148,827 | $188,885 | Web $40,058 |
| Austin, TX | $113,006 | $153,759 | Web $40,753 |
| Chicago, IL | $113,802 | $144,495 | Web $30,693 |
| Boston, MA | $134,947 | $172,806 | Web $37,859 |
| London, UK | £80,939 | £103,650 | Web $22,711 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$138,013 | CA$175,134 | Web $37,121 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Web Developer or AR/VR Developer earn more?+
A AR/VR Developer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Web Developer is $104,000/year, compared to $135,980/year for a AR/VR Developer — a difference of $31,980 (31%).
Which has better career growth — Web Developer or AR/VR Developer?+
Web Developer roles are growing at 16% YoY while AR/VR Developer demand is growing at 38% YoY. AR/VR Developer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Web Developer to AR/VR Developer?+
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 — Web Developer or AR/VR Developer?+
AR/VR Developer has a lower AI automation risk (28% vs 52%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.