In the ever-evolving digital world, having a professional website is no longer an option-it’s a necessity. Web developer salary in Indonesia is one of the important considerations in determining the best solution for your business. A website is not only the face of your business in the online world, but also a key tool to attract customers, build credibility, and increase revenue.
However, the decision to create or manage a website often brings up a big question: is it better to hire an in-house web developer, use a freelancer, or work with an agency?
Your business can evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each of these options according to specific needs. This article will discuss in detail web developer salaries in Indonesia, job descriptions based on specialization, estimated monthly costs, as well as guidelines for choosing the best option for your business.
Web Developer Salary in Indonesia: Overview
After understanding the importance of having a professional website, the next step is to assess the financial requirements involved. One key aspect is to understand web developer salaries in Indonesia to ensure your decision aligns with your business budget.
Based on the latest data from various sources, here are the salary ranges of web developers in Indonesia:
- JobStreet: Rp4,750,000 – Rp7,500,000 per month.
- Dicoding Tech Salary Guide 2024: IDR 2,100,000 – IDR 40,000,000 per month.
- Fresh Graduate: IDR 2,100,000 – IDR 14,000,000.
- Entry Level: IDR 2,500,000 – IDR 24,000,000.
- Mid Level: IDR3,900,000 – IDR37,000,000.
- Senior Level: Rp4,500,000 – Rp40,000,000.
- Glassdoor: Average IDR 7,000,000 per month.
- Payscale: Average IDR 5,000,000 per month.
- Salary Explorer: IDR 5,000,000 – IDR 17,800,000 per month.
- Indeed: Average IDR 4,500,000 per month.
Factors such as work experience, technical expertise, location, and company type determine this salary range. Next, we will discuss the specific roles and responsibilities of web developers based on their specialization.
Job Description Web Developer by Specialization
To choose the right type of web developer, it’s important to understand the different roles between them. Different specializations bring unique skill sets, which can help your business achieve its goals effectively.
Web developers have diverse roles depending on their specialization. A clear understanding of the duties and responsibilities of each specialization can help businesses better define their needs. Here is a division based on the main specializations in the world of web development.
1. Front-End Developer
Front-end developers are responsible for creating the visual appearance and interaction that users see. They work with technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to make websites responsive and easy to use. In addition, they often collaborate with UI/UX designers to ensure the final result matches the business needs.
Required Skills:
- HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Framework (React, Angular, Vue.js).
- Understanding of responsive design principles and user experience.
- Ability to optimize website performance to make it faster and more efficient.
Salary:
- Fresh Graduate: IDR 2,100,000 – IDR 12,000,000.
- Entry Level: IDR 3,000,000 – IDR 18,000,000.
- Mid Level: Rp5,000,000 – Rp30,000,000.
- Senior Level: Rp7,500,000 – Rp40,000,000.
2. Back-End Developer
Back-end developers manage the technical aspects of the website that are not visible to users, such as servers, databases, and business logic. They are responsible for ensuring that all website functions run smoothly, securely, and reliably. Back-end developers also create APIs to connect the front-end with the server.
Required Skills:
- Node.js, Python, PHP, Java, MySQL, MongoDB.
- Expertise in managing server infrastructure and data security.
- Ability to design and optimize scalable application architecture.
Salary:
- Fresh Graduate: IDR 2,100,000 – IDR 12,000,000.
- Entry Level: IDR 3,000,000 – IDR 18,000,000.
- Mid Level: Rp5,000,000 – Rp30,000,000.
- Senior Level: Rp7,500,000 – Rp40,000,000.
3. Full-Stack Developer
Full-stack developers master both the front-end and back-end, allowing them to handle the entire website development project. This role is perfect for businesses that need a complete solution with high efficiency.
Required Skills:
- Combination of front-end and back-end expertise.
- Deep understanding of the entire software development process, from planning to deployment.
- Ability to adapt to various technologies and tools.
Salary:
- Fresh Graduate: IDR 2,100,000 – IDR 8,500,000.
- Entry Level: IDR 2,100,000 – IDR 17,000,000.
- Mid Level: Rp4,000,000 – Rp35,000,000.
- Senior Level: Rp6,000,000 – Rp75,000,000.
Estimated Monthly Cost: Hire Staff, Freelance, or Agency
By understanding the roles and responsibilities of a web developer, the next step is to consider the most suitable development option.
Whether it’s hiring in-house staff, working with freelancers, or entrusting it to an agency, each option has its own costs and benefits.
Building and managing a business website doesn’t always mean you have to hire in-house staff. There are other solutions that can be considered, namely using freelance or agency services.
Each of these options has different advantages, disadvantages, and costs, which can suit your business needs and budget.
1. Hire In-House Web Developer
Companies have to invest a lot of money to recruit internal staff, especially for fixed salaries and benefits. Additional costs such as training and tools also need to be taken into account.
| Experience Level | Total Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Fresh Graduate | Rp6,000,000 – Rp10,400,000 |
| Entry Level | Rp9,600,000 – Rp15,600,000 |
| Mid Level | IDR 14,400,000 – IDR 26,000,000 |
| Senior Level | IDR24,000,000 – IDR39,000,000 |
Additional costs: tools (Rp500,000 – Rp2,000,000), training (Rp1,000,000 – Rp5,000,000 per session). In-house developers are suitable for businesses with long-term development needs.
2. Freelance Web Developer
The choice of freelancers gives businesses the flexibility to control costs according to specific needs. However, there is a risk of delays or needing to pay attention to results that are not up to standard.
| Project Type | Monthly Fee |
| Small Project (1-2 page website) | Rp3,000,000 – Rp7,000,000 |
| Medium Project (simple e-commerce) | Rp10,000,000 – Rp20,000,000 |
| Large Project (complex + maintenance) | Rp25,000,000 – Rp50,000,000 |
3. Agency Web Development
The agency’s team of professionals can handle complex projects to a high standard. The higher cost is proportional to the quality of service provided.
| Project Type | Monthly Fee |
| Basic Website | Rp5,000,000 – Rp15,000,000 |
| E-Commerce Website | Rp20,000,000 – Rp50,000,000 |
| Complex/Custom Website | IDR50,000,000 – IDR100,000,000 |
Additional cost: maintenance (Rp3,000,000 – Rp10,000,000). Agency is suitable for large projects with tight deadlines.
Read also: Website Development Cost
Comparison: In-House, Freelance, and Agency
To help you make an informed decision, here is a direct comparison of the three main options in website development. This will give you a clearer picture of which one suits your business needs.
When choosing a website development method, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your business. Do you need full control with an in-house team, flexibility from a freelancer, or professional expertise from an agency? Here’s a comparison between the three options to help you make the right decision.
| Aspects | Hire Staff | Freelance | Agency |
| Cost | High | Flexible | High |
| Commitment | Full-time | Specific project | Professional |
| Quality | Depends on the individual | Variety | Guaranteed |
| Flexibility | Low | High | Medium |
| Long Term | Suitable | Not ideal | Suitable for large projects |
Conclusions and Recommendations
Choosing between hired staff, freelance, or agency really depends on your business needs and priorities. The salary of web developers in Indonesia can be one of the main consideration factors in determining the most suitable option. Hire staff is suitable for companies that require long-term website management with a focus on routine maintenance.
Meanwhile, freelance is a more cost-effective option for small projects or those with limited budgets, although it should be mindful of the risk of varying quality. On the other hand, agencies are the best choice for large or complex projects as they offer guaranteed results with the expertise of a professional team.
Want to know the best solution for your business website needs? Contact us for a free consultation and get the best recommendations according to your needs!
