Having an idea is not enough until you execute. Similarly, when you think of developing a digital product, you need to decide how to implement it properly.
To bring your vision to life, all you need is the right development expertise. You need to find the right developers, proficient in several essential tech stacks, frameworks and more.
However, finding an individual expert for specific development requirements often brings several challenges. Therefore, a large number of companies with development needs are hiring a full-stack developer instead of individual experts.
The demand for full-stack developers is on the rise, and you can see a significant increase in the upcoming years. According to a report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 13% job growth is projected for full-stack developers between 2020 and 2030. Of course, it is more than double the average for any other job.
Companies worldwide are recruiting full-stack developers to streamline their development process, reduce costs, and accelerate development. Companies like Google, Microsoft, IBM, Amazon, and many others are among those that leverage full-stack developers.
If you are one of those companies looking for full-stack services, you are surely wondering about how much it costs to hire. Don’t worry, in this informative blog, you will get to know all about the cost, including the factors that affect the cost of hiring full-stack developers.
Who are Full-stack Developers?
Full-stack developers refer to the experts who work on both front-end and back-end. They are proficient in frameworks, programming languages and much more. From developing from scratch to deploying and integrating APIs to fixing bugs and errors, a full-stack developer can handle everything. In short, a full-stack developer is familiar with all three layers: front-end (user-side interface), back-end (server-side logic) and database (data storage and management).
What Does a Full Stack Developer Do?
Full-stack developers bring expertise from different domains. They help you plan, build, optimize, scale and maintain software or applications by offering complete services. They are capable enough to handle the entire development process without the need for additional experts. Let’s explore what a full-stack developer does in detail.
1. Front-end Development
Front-end development refers to the interface where users interact. The role of a full-stack developer is to ensure the solution is user-friendly, intuitive, responsive, visually appealing, and feature-rich so that the user can navigate seamlessly.
- Programming languages: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Node.js, and more.
- Frameworks and libraries: React.js, Swift, Angular, Socket.io, EJS, and more.
- Understanding and expertise of UX/UI Design
2. Back-end Development
Back-end development, on the other hand, is the server-side of an application or software. It’s something like working on the base or building the infrastructure. A full-stack developer works on the logic, database, security measures, configuration and other essential components of the solution to make it fully operational.
- Programming languages: Python, Node.js, PHP, and more.
- Frameworks and libraries: Nest JS, Django, Flask, Express.js, Socket.io, and more
- Understanding of databases (PostgreSQL, Redis, MySQL), server-side technologies and more
3. Full-stack Development
Full-stack development refers to the process of developing and finalizing the front-end and back-end of the software or application. A full-stack developer handles the task from start to finish. They perform every task from building infrastructure to the interface where users interact. Full-stack developers are highly qualified experts in the tech world who help businesses achieve their development goals with a minimum budget.
- Programming languages: HTML, CSS, PHP, JavaScript, Python, Ruby, C# and more
- Frameworks and libraries: React, Swift, Angular, Django, Express.js. And more.
- Understanding of user interface and expertise in server-side logic, database (MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB), and others.
4. Quality Control (Testing)
Quality assurance is also the primary responsibility of a full-stack developer while developing software or an application. They conduct quality tests throughout the development cycle and ensure the solution is functioning correctly as intended. On the other hand, if any defects, bugs, or errors are found during testing, developers immediately take action to resolve which also ensures to build a bug-free or error-free software.
- Perform tests to identify bugs, errors or any performance-related issues.
- Troubleshoot and resolve issues to restore the software to its intended functionality.
Hire a Full-Stack Developer from a Top IT Company
5. Understanding of Design
A full-stack developer should have basic design skills so that they can create an attractive and appealing software, web app or mobile app. In addition, their ability to build a responsive and user-friendly design also leads to a better user experience, which ultimately contributes to the quality of the product.
6. APIs Development
Full-stack developers are also masters in developing APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). They build and integrate APIs to enable seamless communication between different parts of the solution and external services.
7. Database Management
A database is the primary need of any software or application. A full-stack developer helps ensure the integrity and security of data. They are the experts who know how to design a database, store, manage, delete, or retrieve data, and make it accessible to the users.
There are primarily two types of databases:
- SQL-based (relational): MySQL, PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server
- NoSQL-based (Non-Relational: MongoDB, Firebase, and Redis.
Soft Skills to Look for When Hiring a Full-Stack Developer
When looking for a full-stack developer, don’t just look at the technical capabilities. Soft skills are as crucial as technical skills.
- Effective Communication: A full-stack developer with excellent communication capabilities can communicate effectively with the stakeholders. An effective communication skill is not just advantageous for the client but also benefits the developer by helping them clearly understand the concept, listening to the feedback and more.
- Problem Solving: Full-stack developers often encounter complex challenges. In this scenario, their problem-solving abilities take charge. A developer with excellent problem-solving ability can easily identify and analyze errors and find a practical way to resolve them.
- Time Management: On-time project delivery is the primary need for the project owner. A full-stack developer can handle multiple tasks simultaneously. In addition, their ability to prioritise tasks helps them meet deadlines and ensure project delivery within the given duration.
- Adaptability: No idea, in this ever-evolving tech world, a new trend can evolve anytime, making it compulsory to apply it to their work. A full-stack developer should be able to adapt to changes and be ready to learn new technologies, frameworks and other methodologies. In this way, they can go without any disruption.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Full-Stack Developer?
Businesses are increasingly hiring full-stack developers to meet their development needs, instead of relying on individuals with specific expertise. However, there are no certain rules; accordingly, you can decide the cost to hire full-stack developers. There are several factors that you need to consider before deciding on the cost to hire full-stack developers. Let’s explore them below:
Factors Affecting the Cost of Hiring a Full-Stack Developer
1. Location of the Full-Stack Developer
When hiring full-stack developers, location plays an important role in determining the cost.
Countries or regions with higher wages and salaries can cost you more. On the other hand, countries with lower labour costs and wages enable you to find developers at a lower rate.
Suppose you are recruiting full-stack developers in the US, the development cost will be higher. Instead, if you hire them from India, the development cost will decrease because the developers’ salaries are lower in India than in the US.
Let’s take a look at the cost of hiring developers from different locations in the table below:
| Country |
Hourly Rates in USD |
Highlights |
| United States |
$70 – $150 |
Higher rates and demand |
| UK |
$50 – $120 |
High cost of living |
| Australia |
$80 – $150 |
High demand and a competitive market |
| Ukraine |
$30 – $80 |
Lower cost of living |
| India |
$20 – $50 |
Large talent pool |
Want to Hire a Full-stack Developer from India?
2. Experience of the Full-Stack Developer
Experience always matters. Hiring a full-stack developer with more experience and expertise will cost you more than a fresher or junior-level developer.
However, having more experience doesn’t mean having more skills and in-depth knowledge. Sometimes, a full-stack developer with less experience gets higher pay due to their capabilities.
In short, experience doesn’t determine rewards. Their proficiency in languages, excellence, latest technologies and quality in deliverables also significantly impact the salaries.
Let’s explore the table below to understand the cost to hire developers according to experience:
| Full-Stack Developer |
Experience |
Hourly Rates |
Highlights |
| Junior or Mid-level Full-Stack Developers |
1 – 3 Years |
$20 – $50 |
Basic understanding of front-end and back-end. Also, supervision is needed to implement. |
| Mid-Level Full-Stack Developers |
3 – 5 Years |
$40 – $100 |
Handle the project with minimum guidance. |
| Senior or High-Level Full-Stack Developers |
5+ Years |
$60 – $150 |
Capable enough to implement complex architectures, optimize performance and more. |
| Lead Full-Stack Developers |
8+ Years |
$80 – $200+ |
Handle technical projects, make strategic decisions, and lead a team. |
Please note: The cost to hire developers according to experience also depends on the location from which you are recruiting.
3. Complexity of the Project
Projects with complex requirements cost you higher than a simple project that requires minimal effort.
Several requirements may arise, such as developing unique features, database management, developing APIs, implementing multiple security measures, multiple integrations and more when handling complex projects. From efforts to expertise, everything needs more.
The cost to build software or an application depends on the complexity of the project.
| Project |
Cost to Build |
Highlights |
| Basic and Straightforward |
$5000 – $30000 |
Building a simple website or an MVP |
| Mid-Level Project |
$20000 – $100000 |
Developing an eCommerce platform |
| High-Level Project |
$80000 – 150000+ |
Project with complex requirements, AI, ERP, Marketplaces |
Please note: The cost to hire developers according to experience also depends on the location from which you are recruiting.
4. Engagement Model
The engagement model you choose is also one of the cost differentiators. There are several engagement models you can choose from, including project-based, time and material-based, dedicated team-based, outstaffing, hybrid model and more.
However, let’s explore the engagement model in the table below:
| Engage Model |
How it Works |
Cost to Hire |
| In-house Developer |
Recruiting an in-house team or an individual full-stack developer. |
$80000 – $150000 Annually |
| Project-Based |
Outsourcing the entire project to third-party developers (IT Company) |
$ 20000 – $100000+ Depending on the size of the project. |
| Time and Material-Based |
The product owner pays according to the time and resources or materials utilized in development |
$ 20000 – $100000+ Depending on the size of the project. |
| Hourly Based |
Hourly models directly bill for developer hours worked |
$20 – $200/hourDepending on the experience and expertise of the developers |
| Staff Augmentation |
Companies temporarily add external full-stack developers to their existing team to supplement in-house capabilities |
$80000 – $150000 Annually Or $20 – $200/hourDepending on the experience and expertise of the developers |
| Hybrid |
A combination of fixed and time and material-based engagement models |
$ 20000 – $100000+ Depending on the size of the project. |
5. Market Demand and Availability
Anything you sell, whether a service or a product, market demand and availability often influence the cost. The same applies when it comes to the cost of hiring full-stack developers.
A full-stack developer with expertise in the latest technology in high demand increases their rates significantly. Because companies and businesses look for proficient experts, and if the talent is rare, the rate will definitely go up.
However, full-stack developers are always in high demand, and hiring costs are also high. Let’s take a look at the technologies in which full-stack developers are in high demand.
| Development Trends |
Demand |
Cost |
| AI and ML |
High |
$100 – $200+ |
| eCommerce and Fintech |
High |
$80 -$150+ |
| Low-code/No-code platforms |
Medium |
$80 -$150+ |
| Cybersecurity |
High |
$80 -$150+ |
| Progressive Web App |
High |
$80 -$150+ |
Not Sure How Much it will Cost to Build Your Software?
Essential Steps: How to Hire a Full Stack Developer for Your Project?
Hiring a full-stack developer seems a tough call for an individual with no experience. However, at the same time, it’s an easy process if you follow the right steps.
Step 1: Define Your Development Needs
The first and foremost step is to define your project development needs before you step towards hiring full-stack developers. In this step, you need to define:
- What is the purpose of your project?
- What are the essential features and functionalities needed?
- What are the technical requirements?
- How much experience and expertise do you need to look for?
- What are the deliverables you expect?
- How much time will it take to finish the project?
- How much budget is required?
Once you are finished with all the above questions. You will be able to define all the requirements, make an informed decision, and further proceed with the hiring process.
Step 2: Find Full-Stack Developers
Before you search for full-stack developers, the first thing you need to decide is whether you want to establish an in-house team or are looking for outsourcing. However, you can hire them from below:
Where can I find full-stack Developers?
Best Online Platforms for Freelancers:
- Upwork
- Toptal
- Fiverr
- Gun.io
- Guru
Social Media and Developer Communities for Full-time Employees:
- LinkedIn
- Indeed
- Github
- Reddit
- Stack Overflow
Top IT Companies for Dedicated Developers
- FATbit Technologies
- Mindtree
- Valuecoders
- EPAM
- iQlance
However, hiring full-stack developers from the top IT company is a more cost-effective approach than establishing an in-house team. It eliminates several steps, hassles and many more that you can face while searching for an in-house team.
Step 3: Evaluate Technical and Soft Skills
Once you have found the right company and a potential candidate. The next step involves evaluating the technical expertise. Examine full-stack developers to see whether they can meet your specific development needs or not. Check their proficiency in programming languages, frameworks, and all other aspects of the technology and expertise.
Alongside, evaluate the soft skills, including communication capabilities, problem-solving abilities, adaptability and more. In addition to these abilities, cultural acceptance is also paramount. Therefore, also ensure whether they fit into the team’s or organization’s culture.
Step 4: Check Professional Experience, Portfolio and More
Relevant experience matters when it comes to hiring full-stack developers. It boosts productivity and ensures the quality of deliverables. Therefore, finding experts having experience similar to your project can help you achieve development goals.
What best approach you can apply to do so?
You can ask for the portfolio, check reviews and ratings on popular platforms, and review client testimonials, helping you understand the actual scenario. In addition, you can also explore case studies for more authentic and detailed information.
Step 5: Decide on Engagement Model
Once you are satisfied with the company and the candidate you are engaging with. In the next step, you can decide on the engagement model that best suits your development needs.
Different Types of Engagement Models:
- Project-Based: Companies sign a contract for the entire project with third-party developers (IT Company). They take charge and ensure the project is completed within the deadline.
- Time and Material-Based: In this engagement model, Companies finalize pricing according to the time and materials utilized in finalizing the project.
- Hybrid Model: This engagement model combines the offerings of both fixed and time and material-based engagement models. Sometimes, a dedicated team-based engagement model also becomes a part of it.
Step 6: Start Development after Signing the Contract
After you finalize all the above steps, you can sign the contract to start development.
Documentation and contract are important considerations. One should be very careful about. Check every single detail and don’t forget to miss deliverables, payments, timeline and other important aspects. Every single detail matters.
Keep monitoring project progress, take regular updates, conduct sessions on quality checks and more so that you can expect outcome value for money and time.
Why Hire Full-Stack Developers from FATbit Technologies?
At FATbit Technologies, we connect companies with top tech talent worldwide. We have highly qualified, experienced and pre-vetted full-stack developers who deliver exceptional results within your budget.
Serving the industry since 2004, FATbit today is the world’s leading IT services provider. Whether you are looking for an individual full-stack developer or want to recruit a robust team for web app development, mobile app development, or software development, we cater to all your development needs.
FATbit focuses on bringing agility, emerging technology and innovation to help clients stay ahead of the curve and drive success to the project. With us, you don’t need to put much effort into finding experts. We minimize the recruitment time by connecting you with the right professionals. From Ideation to deploying the final product, FATbit’s experts guide you through the entire process.
Looking for Affordable Full-Stack Development Services?
Benefits of Hiring a Full-Stack Developer with FATbit
- Access to World-class Talent: We at FATbit help businesses find the right professional for their project. Our pre-vetted full-stack developers are proficient in programming languages, frameworks, methodologies, trends and essential technologies that enable companies to bring quality to their product.
- Affordable Services: When you hire an expert, what you look for is value for money. We offer top-quality services at affordable costs that help companies break the barriers that they may confront due to lower initial investment.
- Faster Development: Our development team is capable of handling complex projects and unexpected challenges. They properly plan and streamline the development process that ultimately enables businesses to gain a competitive edge by introducing products faster into the market.
- Ownership and Consistency: FATbit takes complete ownership of the development. Once the development started, you experienced no disruption. We properly plan and execute strategies throughout the development cycle according to your requirements and continuous feedback so that the product can align perfectly with the goals.
- Transparent Communication: Client satisfaction is our priority. We always keep them informed about the progress of their projects. Our experts closely collaborate and communicate with clients, which helps us build trust, credibility and long-term relationships.
Final Thought
Hiring full-stack developers for your project can benefit you in many ways. However, finding the right expert with relevant experience at an affordable rate is important to achieve the purpose.
In this blog, you have gone through all the essential details, including the benefits of hiring, the technical expertise required, the soft skills to assess, cost to hire considering several factors. In addition, you have also explored essential steps to hire full-stack developers.
However, if you are one of those entrepreneurs, startups and companies looking for world-class talent, you can also consider hiring full-stack developers from FATbit Technologies. They offer complete development services and help you bring unparalleled expertise to your project.
