The State of Devs 2025 survey results have been released! While the survey doesn’t directly address the coding aspect of our work, I appreciate the focus Devographics has maintained since its inception in 2020. This year, with the participation of 8,717 developers, it has provided us with fascinating results, a wealth of data, and useful insights that I believe everyone can explore and learn from.
I approached the survey results analytically but ended up expressing my personal views, as a developer, because the survey affects me. I have some personal opinions to share. So, sit back, relax, and join me as we explore some key highlights from the survey.
It’s important to note that this is only part one of the survey results. A second data release will follow, and I’m eager to delve into those numbers as well.
An opportunity to connect
One observation from the Demographics section is the extent to which technology connects us. While most responses come from the U.S. (26%), other countries, including Italy, Germany, France, Estonia, Austria, South Africa, and more, make up the remaining 74%.
I’m communicating with you from Nigeria! It’s amazing to connect with people worldwide through this platform, CSS-Tricks, and the larger developer community that makes it enjoyable.
This survey highlights our desire to connect and provides an opportunity to express our challenges related to work experiences, environments, health, and hobbies. While the survey targets developers, it emphasizes that everyone faces life challenges. We are all human.
It’s also why I opened a Bluesky account: to connect with more developers.
The survey offers insights into our care for ourselves in tech and our eagerness to address rarely discussed issues. Its global nature shows how much we have in common.
More women participated this year
In the 2024 State of JavaScript and State of CSS surveys, fewer women participated (around 6%), but this year’s State of Devs survey saw a higher percentage of women (15%). While still low to represent a key demographic, it’s encouraging to see an increase. We need more women in this male-dominated industry.
Experience over talent
Contrary to popular belief, personal performance doesn’t always equate to higher pay, as reflected in the survey results. Experience often correlates with higher pay, but newcomers must also engage in personal marketing, mentorship, and more. Cassidy provides insights in a video interview on her development career. It’s worth watching, especially for newcomers.
The average income for those with 10-14 years of experience ($115,833) matches those with 15-29 years ($118,000) and isn’t far from those with 30+ years ($120,401). Experience influences income, but not as significantly as expected. The most experienced developers (30+ years) have higher average incomes, but their income range is narrower than those with 10-29 years. I’m curious about the reasons for this decline—perhaps a lack of staying current or ageism.
Salary, workplace, and job hunting
I won’t delve into every report. I’m interested in specific survey areas. My takeaways may differ from yours, despite the numbers. Here are some highlights that stood out to me.
Your experience, employment status, and company size seem to directly affect pay. Full-timers report higher salaries than freelancers. Freelancers may freelance for flexible hours, project choice, or personal constraints. Freelancers can command higher pay while working less.
Bad management and burnout are common workplace issues. Be cautious during interviews, research companies, and ensure there are more accolades than complaints. Don’t overwork; breaks boost productivity.
Seventy percent report no workplace discrimination, indicating progress. However, 30% experience discrimination, and reducing this is a goal. Companies, especially tech giants, should enforce policies to address this. Silence can hinder progress.
Never get too comfortable in your job. Although 69% haven’t been laid off, job security is fragile. Continue learning, building, and exploring other income sources. Layoffs persist, particularly in the U.S., Australia, and U.K.
It takes an average of four applications for most developers to find a new job. This surprises me. I’m seeking a full-time role and apply for more than four jobs daily. Perhaps I’m doing something wrong, but others in my circles face similar challenges. Four applications seem low, though I lack quantitative proof.
Your personal network remains the best way to find a job. We are social animals, and survey participants highlight coworker relationships as a top job perk. I find this true at CSS-Tricks, where I collaborate with like-minded CSS and front-end enthusiasts. I’ve developed close relationships with editors and writers, which I value more than other benefits.
Compensation is a top workplace challenge. JavaScript remains the most popular programming language, with CSS in third place.
Bluesky is more popular among developers than X. I realized the toxicity on X after opening a Bluesky account. Engagement is
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