Blockchain Developer Salary Guide: How Much Can You Make?

Blockchains—decentralized and encrypted databases—are a prime example of disruptive technology. The value of its applications has become apparent in recent years as use cases such as supply chain management and cryptocurrency continue to emerge.

Blockchain developers boast competitive salaries, ranging from $102,185 to $145,913 yearly [1,2,3] thanks to the demand for this type of work. A Statista forecast estimates the blockchain market could be worth over $943 billion globally by 2032 [4]. Discover how that high demand translates into the average blockchain developer salary, including how factors like location and job title can impact your annual earnings.

What does a blockchain developer do?

As a blockchain developer, you can gain skills in designing, developing, and testing blockchain systems and applications. You can specialize in one of two kinds of blockchain development: core or software. Core blockchain developers work on system architecture. They manage cybersecurity measures and supervise the blockchain network. Blockchain software developers design and create applications for blockchain platforms.

Blockchain developer requirements

You can find several pathways into blockchain development. To qualify for an entry-level role, consider pursuing the following methods to gain your needed skills and experience:

• Degrees: To become a blockchain developer, you often need a degree in computer science, information security, or a related discipline. For example, a core blockchain developer may pursue a Master of Information Technology.

• Certificates and certifications: Degrees are not the only way to prepare yourself for a role in blockchain development. Employers may accept or even prefer candidates with certifications in relevant areas of expertise. If you are interested in becoming a blockchain software engineer, you may consider the IBM DevOps and Software Engineering Professional Certificate.

• A combination of credentials and experience: There is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning how to become a blockchain developer. Blockchain development is an increasingly open field, allowing people with diverse backgrounds to apply their knowledge to the industry. You may find that a combination of education and skills is enough to help you land a career in this field. 

How much do blockchain developers get paid?

The average blockchain developer salary ranges from $102,185 to $145,913, according to three job board websites. You can expect your salary to fluctuate based on factors such as where you live, how much experience you’ve gained in the industry, and your job title. Explore the average salary for a blockchain developer [1,2,3]:

Factors that affect blockchain developer salary 

You could earn a higher or lower salary as a blockchain developer depending on your credentials and a variety of factors. Discover how location, experience, and job title can impact your earnings.

Location

In any given location, factors like the cost of living and the job demand influence how much you earn as a blockchain developer. According to ZipRecruiter, the highest-paying cities for this job are [2]:

• Maple Valley, WA: $137,667

• Berkeley, CA: $135,407

• San Bruno, CA: $130,900

• New York City, NY: $130,199

• Renton, WA: $129,809

• Santa Monica, CA: $128,954

• Palo Alto, CA: $128,802

• Bend, OR: $128,797

• Severn, MD: $128,295

• Daly City, CA: $128,143

Experience

The experience you gain as a blockchain developer can also translate into a higher salary. According to Glassdoor, the average blockchain dev salary varies by experience as follows [1]:

• 0–1 years: $76,228

• 1–3 years: $91,063

• 4–6 years: $103,826

• 7–9 years: $114,155 

• 10–14 years: $121,552

• 15 or more years: $135,079

Blockchain developer jobs

Another reason that you may see a different salary is the specific job title you’re pursuing. A few potential careers for developers with blockchain skills include blockchain software developer, smart contract engineer, and blockchain quality engineer. 

1. Blockchain software developer

Average annual US salary (Glassdoor): $102,185 [1]

Job outlook (projected growth from 2022 to 2032): 17 percent [6]

As a blockchain developer, you can develop software and applications for blockchain platforms. In this role, you can research and maintain blockchain infrastructure. You can also implement software features and verify functionality. To be successful in this role, you may need skills in decentralized applications, end-to-end software design, and blockchain architecture. 

2. Smart contract engineer 

Average annual US salary (Glassdoor): $86,438 [7]

Job outlook (projected growth from 2022 to 2032): 17 percent [6]

As a smart contract engineer, you can develop and audit smart contracts. This may include translating business goals into technical requirements and creating a smart contract for a third-party deal. In this role, you may need to have a working knowledge of smart contract programming languages, business expertise, and communication skills. 

3. Blockchain quality engineer

Average annual US salary (Glassdoor): $117,961 [8]

Job outlook (projected growth from 2022 to 2032): 17 percent [6]

As a blockchain quality engineer, you can ensure the quality of blockchain development projects. In this role, you may write and implement software testing guidelines and create automation initiatives and dashboards. To be successful in the role, it may be helpful to have a background in engineering or project management, as well as the software development lifecycle. 

Blockchain development job outlook

Blockchain developers and similar job roles fall under the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) category of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers. The BLS projects that this category will grow by 17 percent from 2023 to 2033 [6]. The agency predicts a total of 327,900 jobs will add to the category in that period of time [6].

Get started as a blockchain developer with Coursera

A career in blockchain development allows you to gain skills at the cutting edge of new technology. 

If you are new to the field, consider taking an introductory course like the What Is the Metaverse? or Blockchain Foundations and Use Cases courses. If you're transitioning from a related role, you may benefit from a narrower specialization, like Blockchain Business Models or Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Infrastructure.