How To Become an App Developer: Salary & Career Paths for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Apps do most of the heavy lifting in the modern world. From social media and e-commerce to finance and healthcare, nearly every industry relies on mobile and web applications to connect with users, automate processes, power businesses, and drive innovation. As a result, app development has become one of the most sought-after careers of the 21st century.

So, what does it take to become an app developer for 2025? Do you need a formal degree, or can you succeed through self-learning? Whether you're a student exploring career options, a professional looking to switch industries, or a self-taught coder eager to break into tech, understanding the necessary skills, education paths, and job market trends is essential. In this guide, I’ll outline the career roadmap for an app developer — from the industries you can work in to the salary ranges you can expect.

What are the benefits of becoming an app developer?

• The demand for app developers is expected to grow by 17% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all jobs (BLS, 2024).
• Being an app developer is a high-paying career, with annual salaries typically ranging between $109,364 and $134,674 (Salary.com).
• Developers can specialize in mobile, web, AI, gaming, or enterprise software, with opportunities in various industries like healthcare, finance, and e-commerce.

Table of Contents

1. What does an app developer do?
2. How to become an app developer for 2025?
3. What are the best degree programs for aspiring app developers?
4. What skills do you need to become an app developer?
5. What tools and software do app developers use?
6. Which industries can I work in as an app developer?
7. What is the average salary of an app developer?
8. Will an accelerated computer science program enhance my app development skills?
9. How does continuous professional development drive career success?
10. Could advanced education enhance your app development career?
11. How do app developers address security and privacy challenges?
12. What are the career pathways for an app developer?
13. How can online education in AI advance your app development career?
14. How do artificial intelligence and no-code platforms impact app developers?
15. Which certifications and professional memberships boost an app developer’s career?
16. What are the biggest trends you need to know as an app developer?
17. Other Things You Should Know About an App Developer’s Career Path

What does an app developer do?

As of 2024, there are 1,897,100 app developers in the US, a number that continues to grow as demand for digital solutions rises. As more users rely on software applications to streamline once-tedious tasks in their daily lives, the surge for these professionals shows no sign of slowing down.

App developers design, build, and maintain applications for mobile, web, and desktop platforms. Their role goes beyond just writing code — they collaborate with designers, product managers, and other developers to create user-friendly and high-performing applications that meet business and consumer needs. Here’s a breakdown of what they do:

• Writing and Maintaining Code: Develops applications using programming languages like Swift, Kotlin, Java, JavaScript, or Python.
• Testing and Debugging: Identifies and fixes bugs to ensure smooth performance across different devices and operating systems.
• Collaborating With Designers and Product Teams: Works closely with UI/UX designers to create intuitive and visually appealing apps.
• Integrating APIs and Third-Party Services: Connects apps with payment gateways, cloud storage, analytics tools, and other external services.
• Optimizing App Performance: Improves speed, responsiveness, and efficiency to enhance user experience.
• Ensuring Security and Data Protection: Implements security best practices to safeguard user data from breaches and vulnerabilities.
• Staying Updated on Industry Trends: Learns new programming languages, frameworks, and technologies to keep skills relevant.

How to become an app developer for 2025?

App development is not only a dynamic and in-demand field but also a lucrative one, with an average salary of $121,723 annually (Salary.com). As businesses and consumers increasingly rely on apps for everything — from productivity to entertainment — the need for skilled software developers continues to grow. Whether through formal education, coding bootcamps, or self-learning, there are multiple pathways to breaking into this high-paying career. Here’s how you can kickstart your career as an app developer:

• Choose a Development Path: Decide whether you want to specialize in mobile (iOS, Android), web, or cross-platform development. Each requires different programming languages and tools.
• Learn Programming Languages: Start with industry-standard languages like Swift or Kotlin for mobile development, and JavaScript, Flutter, or React Native for cross-platform development.
• Gain Hands-On Experience: Build personal projects, contribute to open-source software, or participate in hackathons to strengthen your coding skills.
• Pursue Formal or Self-Education: While computer science is one of the highest paying degrees once you receive certification, many successful developers hone their skills through online courses, coding bootcamps, and tutorials.
• Create a Strong Portfolio: Showcase your projects, apps, and problem-solving skills in an online portfolio or GitHub repository to attract potential employers.
• Stay Updated With Industry Trends: App development evolves quickly, so learning about AI integration, no-code platforms, and new frameworks will keep you competitive.
• Gain Professional Experience: Apply for internships, freelance gigs, or entry-level jobs to build real-world experience and enhance your resume.

What are the best degree programs for aspiring app developers?

While a formal degree is not always required to become an app developer, earning one can provide a strong foundation in programming, software development, and computer science principles. The right degree program can help aspiring developers gain technical expertise, industry connections, and hands-on experience.

• Computer Science: Explores programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and software engineering. This is the most common and versatile degree for aspiring app developers.
• Software Engineering: Focuses specifically on the development, design, and maintenance of software applications, including mobile and web development.
• Information Technology: Covers a broad range of technical skills, including app development, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and database management.
• Computer Programming: Centers around coding, debugging, and software development processes, often with a strong focus on practical applications.
• Game Development: Encompasses programming, graphics, and interactive design, making it ideal for those interested in creating mobile or desktop games. For your reference, you may explore our list of the best game design schools online.
• Cybersecurity: Teaches essential security principles that are increasingly important for app developers, ensuring applications are secure and user data is protected.
• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning: Covers AI-driven app development, automation, and data-driven decision-making, which are growing fields in tech.
• Web Development: Provides strong front-end and back-end knowledge, with overlapping skills that benefit both web and app developers.

We understand that these technical courses can be expensive, which is why financial aid options like the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help. Here's a list of online colleges that accept FAFSA to make education more accessible.

What skills do you need to become an app developer?

Becoming a successful app developer requires a combination of technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and creativity. With 140,000 job openings available across the US (BLS, 2024), aspiring app developers are now in high demand — from building mobile and web apps to cross-platform solutions. 

The key to standing out from the rest of the competition? Mastering these critical skills:

• Programming Languages: Proficiency in Swift or Kotlin for mobile development, JavaScript, Python, or TypeScript for web applications, and Flutter or React Native for cross-platform development.
• Front-end and Back-end Development: Understanding UI/UX principles for intuitive design and back-end technologies like Node.js, Django, or Firebase for server-side functionality.
• Project Management: Efficiently plan, execute, and manage app development projects. Sharpen your problem-solving and strategic-planning skills by exploring our list of project management degree programs.
• Version Control Systems: Experience with Git and GitHub/GitLab for tracking changes, collaborating with teams, and maintaining code integrity.
• Testing and Debugging: Ability to use testing frameworks like JUnit, XCTest, or Selenium to ensure app reliability and performance.
• API Integration: Understanding how to connect applications with third-party services, such as payment gateways, cloud storage, and analytics tools.

• Cybersecurity Best Practices: Knowledge of data encryption, authentication methods, and secure coding to safeguard user information.

What tools and software do app developers use?

Choosing the right software can significantly enhance an app developer’s efficiency, whether for writing code, debugging, prototyping, or managing deployments. Tools like Sublime Text offer a lightweight, distraction-free coding experience for $99, while Docker provides a consistent environment for scalable microservices for as low as $9.

For developers working closely with teams or clients, understanding what does a sales manager do can also be valuable, as these professionals often coordinate with app developers to ensure the product aligns with market needs and customer expectations.

Below is a table outlining key development tools, their average costs, and their primary purposes to help you select the best fit for your needs:

Must-Have Software for App Developers:

Source: Spacelift, 2025.

Which industries can I work in as an app developer?

App development is the cornerstone of the modern business world. Professionals entering this field as software builders can expect a versatile career with opportunities across multiple industries — whether kickstarting a logistics career path or developing cutting-edge fintech solutions. As businesses continue to adopt digital solutions, skilled app developers are in high demand in various sectors, including:

• Technology: Work with software companies, startups, and big tech firms to develop consumer apps, enterprise software, and cloud-based solutions.
• Finance and Banking: Build secure mobile banking apps, fintech solutions, and investment platforms that enhance financial transactions and security.
• Healthcare: Develop telemedicine apps, electronic health record systems, and integrations for wearable devices to improve patient care.
• E-Commerce and Retail: Create mobile shopping apps, payment gateways, and personalized recommendation systems for online and brick-and-mortar businesses.
• Gaming: Design and develop mobile, console, and PC games, as well as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications.
• Education and E-Learning: Build interactive learning platforms, digital classrooms, and language learning apps to enhance accessibility and engagement. If you're interested in working in educational settings, understanding the PE teacher job description can provide insight into the growing demand for fitness and sports-related educational apps.
• Transportation and Logistics: Develop ride-sharing, fleet management, and delivery tracking apps that optimize transportation networks.
• Real Estate: Create property listing platforms, virtual home tour apps, and real estate management software for buyers, sellers, and agents.
• Media and Entertainment: Work on streaming apps, digital content platforms, and interactive media solutions for music, video, and social engagement.

What is the average salary of an app developer?

App developers don’t just build software — they build high-paying careers. Whether you’re breaking into the industry or aiming for a senior role, app development offers strong earning potential. With annual earnings averaging $143,210 in software publishing and $127,880 in computer systems design, a career in this field opens doors to one of the most lucrative sectors in tech. As illustrated in the chart below, I highlighted the top-paying industries for app developers including their median annual wages:

Will an accelerated computer science program enhance my app development skills?

In today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape, targeted accelerated education offers a concise route to advanced technical expertise. An accelerated program equips app developers with industry-relevant skills, specialized frameworks, and insights into emerging technologies that directly translate to practical solutions on the job. By engaging in immersive, hands-on projects that mirror real-world challenges, professionals can refine their technical proficiency while minimizing time away from the workforce. For those aiming to boost their credentials and stay competitive in a dynamic market, enrolling in a computer science accelerated program is a strategic choice.

How does continuous professional development drive career success?

Continuous professional development is crucial for navigating a constantly evolving tech landscape. Strategic investments in specialized certifications, industry conferences, and hackathons can sharpen technical expertise and foster innovative problem-solving skills. Leveraging emerging cross-disciplinary insights, such as trends observed in health informatics salary, empowers developers to identify niche opportunities and advance into senior, leadership, or specialized roles without redundancy in the existing career pathways.

Could advanced education enhance your app development career?

Advanced education in interdisciplinary fields can equip app developers with a broader perspective and enhanced analytical skills. Industry professionals are increasingly exploring specialized programs that complement technical expertise with data analytics and research methodologies. For example, integrating studies in data-intensive fields can help refine decision-making processes and foster long-term innovation. Aspiring developers may benefit from pursuing an online bioinformatics degree to bridge software development with emerging analytical trends.

How do app developers address security and privacy challenges?

App developers must integrate secure coding practices and robust data protection measures to safeguard user information. Emphasizing threat modeling, regular vulnerability assessments, and compliance with data privacy regulations is essential for building reliable applications. Staying ahead of emerging security threats often requires advanced education in interdisciplinary fields; for instance, pursuing a bioinformatics master's online can provide insights into data analysis and the implementation of encryption protocols, ultimately enhancing the resilience of digital solutions.

What are the career pathways for an app developer?

An app developer’s career may often get simplified into writing codes, but the reality is that it is a much broader career path that spans a multitude of specializations. Whether you prefer building mobile apps, designing user experiences, or managing large-scale systems, there are multiple career paths to explore. Here are some of the most common roles:

• Junior App Developer: Focuses on coding, debugging, and collaborating with senior developers. This position helps build a strong foundation in programming languages, frameworks, and best practices.
• Mobile App Developer: Specializes in building applications for iOS, Android, or cross-platform environments. Developers in this role work with mobile-specific frameworks and optimize apps for performance and user experience.
• Full-Stack Developer: Works on both the front-end and back-end of applications, handling databases, APIs, and user interfaces. This role requires proficiency in multiple programming languages and a deep understanding of software architecture.
• Software Engineer: Expands beyond app development to design, test, and maintain software solutions across different platforms. Software engineers often work on large-scale applications, integrating complex systems and ensuring scalability.
• UI/UX Designer-Developer: Bridges the gap between design and development by focusing on creating user-friendly and visually appealing interfaces. Professionals in this role need expertise in front-end technologies and an understanding of user psychology.
• DevOps Engineer: Focuses on streamlining the development, deployment, and maintenance of applications through automation and cloud infrastructure. DevOps engineers work with CI/CD pipelines, containerization, and monitoring tools to improve efficiency.
• Product Manager: Moves beyond coding to oversee the development process, defining app features, and ensuring alignment with business goals. Product managers work closely with developers, designers, and stakeholders to deliver market-ready solutions.
• Tech Lead/Engineering Manager: Leads a team of developers, setting technical direction and overseeing project execution. This role requires strong leadership skills, technical expertise, and the ability to mentor junior developers.
• Tech Entrepreneur: Uses development skills to build and launch independent applications or start a software company. However, pursuing a business degree can be financially demanding. To offset your education costs, explore our list of the cheapest online business degree programs for aspiring entrepreneurs.
• Machine Learning/AI Developer: Specializes in integrating artificial intelligence into applications, from chatbots to predictive analytics. Developers in this role need expertise in data science, algorithms, and machine learning frameworks.
• Healthcare App Developer: With the growing need for medical and health-related apps, healthcare app developers may focus on creating solutions that improve patient care, streamline medical procedures, or track health data. If you’re considering a career in healthcare tech, you might also be curious about how much do nurses make, as a point of comparison for salary expectations in the healthcare field.

How can online education in AI advance your app development career?

Specialized online programs provide app developers with targeted training in emerging machine learning and AI techniques, fostering the ability to integrate smart features into applications. By embracing these advanced programs, developers can refine skills in data-driven decision-making, algorithm optimization, and real-time analytics, thereby enhancing both product performance and user engagement. Exploring resources such as AI online degree programs can offer insights into curriculum design and innovative course structures that align with industry demands.

How do artificial intelligence and no-code platforms impact app developers?

The global low-code platform market is projected to reach around $65 billion by 2027, driven by increasing demand for rapid application development and automation solutions. So, how will this affect future app developers? While these tools make app creation more accessible, they also reshape the role of developers, pushing them toward more complex problem-solving and system architecture. 

Understanding these shifts is crucial for staying competitive in the evolving tech landscape:

• Faster Development Cycles: AI-powered code generation and no-code platforms reduce the time needed to build applications, allowing developers to focus on more complex and custom functionalities.
• Lower Barrier to Entry: No-code and low-code tools enable non-technical users to create applications, increasing competition and expanding opportunities for developers to specialize in advanced customization and integrations. This mirrors trends in other fields, such as healthcare, where increasing numbers of healthcare jobs that don't require a college degree are opening up, offering a wider range of career paths.
• Shift Toward AI-Augmented Coding: AI tools assist in writing, debugging, and optimizing code, allowing developers to work more efficiently and focus on strategic problem-solving rather than repetitive tasks.
• Increased Demand for API and Back-end Development: As no-code platforms handle front-end design, skilled developers are still needed to build, manage, and secure back-end systems, ensuring seamless app functionality.
• New Roles and Specializations: Developers may pivot into roles such as AI integration specialists, automation engineers, or low-code consultants, helping businesses maximize these emerging technologies.

Which certifications and professional memberships boost an app developer’s career?

Pursuing industry-recognized certifications and joining professional organizations can enhance an app developer’s profile by validating specialized skills and opening doors to exclusive training and networking opportunities. Certifications offered by leading technology companies and respected industry bodies serve as tangible endorsements of expertise, while memberships in professional associations provide access to current best practices and career-advancing events. Additionally, exploring options such as affordable online schools for engineering can further solidify foundational knowledge that supports advanced app development capabilities.

What are the biggest trends you need to know as an app developer?

If you want to future-proof your career as an app developer, you need to know what’s coming next. Keep in mind that technology doesn’t stand still, and neither should you. To continuously have a leg up in the game, developers must be aware of some of the biggest trends in the industry today:

• AI-Powered Features: AI tops this list as a core breakthrough in app development. Since the rise of ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, and Microsoft Copilot in the past 3 years, AI-powered apps will continuously change the game in the software world. In fact, more than 4 billion devices globally have AI-powered features built-in (Statista, 2025), making AI integration go from a buzzworthy trend to a consumer necessity.
• 5G-Optimized Applications: In 2024, Apple introduced the  5G feature in visionOS 2.2, enabling Apple Vision Pro applications to leverage optimized 5G connectivity via Personal Hotspot on compatible iPhones and iPads. This enhances user experiences even without built-in cellular options (9to5Mac, 2024).
• Cross-Platform Development: Frameworks like Flutter and React Native are gaining traction, making it easier for developers to build apps that work seamlessly across multiple devices and operating systems while reducing development time.
• Privacy-First Development: With increasing concerns over data security, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has emphasized the importance for app developers to prioritize user privacy. Following a review of period and fertility apps, the ICO reminded developers to be transparent about data usage, obtain valid consent, and implement robust security measures to protect personal data (Information Commissioner's Office, 2024).
• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): AR/VR technologies are expanding beyond gaming into sectors like retail, education, and healthcare. For instance, PICO's integration of OpenXR 1.1 simplifies the development of cross-platform immersive applications, enhancing interoperability and reducing fragmentation in the XR ecosystem (PICO, 2024).

• Wearable and IoT Integration: As smartwatches, fitness trackers, and IoT-connected devices grow in popularity, app developers are focusing on seamless connectivity and real-time data syncing. As noted in TechTarget (2024), this advancement has become essential in healthcare, where wearable devices enable continuous monitoring of patients' vital signs, activity levels, and other health metrics, facilitating early intervention and personalized treatment plans.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Becoming an App Developer

• "Breaking into app development changed my life. With demand for developers skyrocketing in the U.S., I had job offers lined up even before finishing my bootcamp. Now, I get to work remotely, build innovative apps, and earn a six-figure salary—all while doing something I love." – Annie
• "I started as a self-taught coder, and within two years, I landed a role at a top U.S. tech company. The best part? The industry rewards skills over degrees, giving people like me a chance to thrive. App development is fast-paced, creative, and filled with opportunities for growth." – Ivan
• "The flexibility of a career in app development is unmatched. I’ve worked on everything from mobile banking apps to healthcare solutions, making a real impact. Plus, with the U.S. tech industry booming, there’s always room to advance and innovate."– Johnny

Key Findings

• As of 2024, there are about 1,897,100 app developers in the US, a number that continues to grow as demand for digital solutions rises.
• The demand for app developers is expected to grow by 17% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all jobs.
• An app developer’s average salary reaches up to $121,723 annually.
• With 140,000 job openings available across the US (BLS, 2024), aspiring app developers are now in high demand.
• The global low-code platform market is projected to reach around $65 billion by 2027, driven by increasing demand for rapid application development and automation solutions.

Other Things You Should Know About an App Developer’s Career Path

What are the best programming languages for app development?

The best programming languages depend on the platform and type of app you’re building. For iOS development, Swift and Objective-C are commonly used, while Android apps are primarily built with Kotlin and Java. For cross-platform development, Flutter (Dart) and React Native (JavaScript) are popular choices, allowing developers to write code once and deploy it on multiple platforms. If you're building back-end services for your app, Python, Node.js, and Go are excellent options.

How do I create a strong portfolio as an app developer?

A strong portfolio showcases your skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Start by building and publishing small but functional apps, including personal projects or contributions to open-source apps. Highlight your best work with detailed case studies explaining your development process, challenges faced, and solutions implemented. Make sure to include links to your GitHub, App Store/Google Play listings, or a personal website. If you're new, consider taking on freelance or volunteer projects to gain real-world experience.

Which is better: iOS or Android app development?

The choice between iOS and Android development depends on your goals and target audience. iOS development (Swift, Objective-C) is often favored for its streamlined ecosystem, higher user spending, and faster updates. Android development (Kotlin, Java) provides a broader global reach, more customization options, and an open-source environment. If you want maximum flexibility, cross-platform frameworks like Flutter or React Native let you develop for both platforms simultaneously.

How can I start freelancing as an app developer?

To start freelancing, build a strong portfolio showcasing your app development skills and create profiles on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal. Start with small projects to gain experience and positive reviews, then gradually take on more complex tasks. Networking is key—connect with potential clients on LinkedIn, developer forums, or local tech meetups. Stay updated with industry trends, set competitive rates, and always deliver high-quality work to build a strong reputation in the freelance market.

References:

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• Docker. (n.d.). Pricing. Docker.com. Retrieved March 30, 2025.

• Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). (2024). ICO urges all app developers to prioritise privacy. Ico.org.uk. Retrieved March 30, 2025.

• JetBrains. (n.d.). JetBrains store. JetBrains.com. Retrieved March 30, 2025.

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• PICO XR. (2024). OpenXR standard 1.1. Developer.picoxr.com. Retrieved March 30, 2025.

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• Spacelift. (2025). Top 27 software development tools & platforms [2025 list]. Spacelift.io. Retrieved March 30, 2025.

• Statista. (2024). Number of voice assistants in use worldwide 2019-2024. Statista.com. Retrieved March 30, 2025.

• Statista. (n.d.). Low-code and no-code platforms. Statista.com. Retrieved March 30, 2025.

• Sublime HQ. (n.d.). Sublime Text store. Sublimehq.com. Retrieved March 30, 2025.

• TechTarget. (n.d.). Wearable technology. TechTarget.com. Retrieved March 30, 2025.

• UltraEdit. (n.d.). UltraEdit catalog. UltraEdit.com. Retrieved March 30, 2025.