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Job outlook for information developers in the United States
Information developer job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected information developer job growth rate is 21% from 2018-2028.
About 284,100 new jobs for information developers are projected over the next decade.
Information developer salaries have increased 10% for information developers in the last 5 years.
There are over 91,051 information developers currently employed in the United States.
There are 215,866 active information developer job openings in the US.
The average information developer salary is $98,933.
Are information developer jobs in demand?
Information developer job and salary trends over time
Information developer jobs over time
Information developer job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 91,051 | 0.03% |
| 2020 | 214,222 | 0.06% |
| 2019 | 64,630 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 124,466 | 0.04% |
| 2017 | 117,225 | 0.04% |
Average information developer salary over time
Information developer salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $98,933 | $47.56 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $95,673 | $46.00 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $93,507 | $44.96 | +1.8% |
| 2022 | $91,856 | $44.16 | +1.7% |
| 2021 | $90,313 | $43.42 | +1.9% |
Information developer jobs by state
Most common states for information developers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 609 | 88% |
| 2 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 431 | 41% |
| 3 | Vermont | 623,657 | 245 | 39% |
| 4 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 251 | 33% |
| 5 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 276 | 32% |
| 6 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 2,138 | 31% |
| 7 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 957 | 31% |
| 8 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 179 | 31% |
| 9 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 318 | 30% |
| 10 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 2,417 | 29% |
| 11 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 1,183 | 29% |
| 12 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 386 | 29% |
| 13 | Delaware | 961,939 | 283 | 29% |
| 14 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 535 | 28% |
| 15 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,500 | 27% |
| 16 | Alaska | 739,795 | 195 | 26% |
| 17 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,427 | 25% |
| 18 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 425 | 25% |
| 19 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 2,168 | 24% |
| 20 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,769 | 24% |
Most common cities for information developers
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Frankfort | 2 | 7% | $80,575 |
| 2 | Juneau | 2 | 6% | $93,160 |
| 3 | Annapolis | 2 | 5% | $97,651 |
| 4 | Aberdeen | 1 | 4% | $76,107 |
| 5 | Fort Lauderdale | 3 | 2% | $84,885 |
| 6 | Little Rock | 3 | 2% | $83,013 |
| 7 | Lansing | 2 | 2% | $88,140 |
| 8 | Des Moines | 3 | 1% | $81,871 |
| 9 | Baton Rouge | 2 | 1% | $81,144 |
| 10 | Akron | 1 | 1% | $94,075 |
| 11 | Phoenix | 3 | 0% | $93,948 |
| 12 | Atlanta | 2 | 0% | $91,506 |
| 13 | Denver | 2 | 0% | $81,847 |
| 14 | Indianapolis | 2 | 0% | $77,600 |
| 15 | New York | 2 | 0% | $102,472 |
| 16 | Washington | 2 | 0% | $103,206 |
Information Developer job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of information developer experts
SUNY College at Geneseo
University of Missouri - Columbia
Nova Southeastern University
University of Missouri - Columbia
The University of the South
Framingham State University
Quinnipiac University
Nova Southeastern University
Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology - Okmulgee
Texas A&M University San Antonio
Ashford University
University of Connecticut
Middle Georgia State University
Mount St. Joseph University
What will help Information Developers increase their earning potential?
David Hart: This field has become more valuable ever since the supply chain interruption due to Covid. The analyst is challenged every day with supply chain issues and deployment of the right resources to their prospective areas. Every day can be a new challenge so the work is rarely mundane.
What Information Developer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Adam Roth: I recommend that students start by identifying a specific skill in demand within your field, such as data analysis or social media marketing, and focus on developing expertise in that area. Research salary ranges and living costs in particular areas where you’re interested in working to ensure your compensation aligns with the local market. Always negotiate a salary and consider other aspects of the offer, such as funds for continuing education, technology and more. Continuing to network and establish demand for your services is essential; attend industry events, join professional associations, and engage with professionals in your field. Never miss an opportunity to reach out to and check in with your professional contacts. Pursue additional learning opportunities and education, such as certifications or advanced degrees, to provide a competitive advantage and increase your earning potential over time.
What general advice would you give to an Information Developer?
Bradley Andrew Ph.D.: So-called soft skills are still in demand by employers, based on recent surveys, because a smaller percentage of graduates possess them. These include:
Showing up and on time;
Having a strong work ethic;
Critical thinking skills
Social skills, including the ability to get along well with people, motivate and encourage them, and leadership skills. Also be able to schmooze with clients over dinner or drinks, or just in your office. A personal touch and connection is something software can’t provide.
Creativity—Apple products, for example, appeal to many people because of their combination of form and function.
The ability to work AI in order to increase one’s productivity will become more important over the next 5 years.
What will help Information Developers increase their earning potential?
Bradley Andrew Ph.D.: Once you have your first job, ask about or determine the 20% of your supervisor’s job that they hate and start doing that for them. They will love you for it and it will quickly get you recognition. You’ll also be well on your way to learning your boss’s job. Continue doing this as you progress in your career (Kudos to Theo Epstein, former GM for the Red Sox, for this recommendation)
No matter the task you’re given, do it to the absolute best of your abilities. In the professional world, you may often be given menial tasks or tasks that you don’t believe are part of your job description. Doing those tasks to the absolute best of your ability leads to increased trust, recognition and responsibility and will put you “above class.” If asked, the coffee you bring should be the best your boss has ever had. You never know who’s watching.
Don’t expect credit and don’t ask for credit when things go right; give the credit to others.
Jasmine Tang
SUNY College at Geneseo
Bilingual, Multilingual, And Multicultural Education
What will help Information Developers increase their earning potential?
Jasmine Tang: I always advise the students to apply any job that accept their degree or go for the one they really like.
What general advice would you give to an Information Developer?
Matthew Sveum Ph.D.: I don’t think that there is a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. As I said above, building soft skills through internships, and also other experiences like study abroad, clubs, etc, is important to standing out in the workplace. Beyond that, it is important to pick a major that aligns with the career that the student wants, and to then network through internships, talking with guest speakers, etc. But it is also important to remember that the first job is just the starting point, and that promotions or job changes over time will improve their salary and title; they don’t need to jump in to the exact salary and title they eventually want.
What Information Developer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Prof. Kim Jovanovich P.E.: Attached please see the responses to your interview questions. I hope this sheds some light on the questions you asked!
Junping Sun Ph.D.
ProfessorNova Southeastern University
Computer Software And Media Applications
What Information Developer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Junping Sun Ph.D.: Computer Science and its applications in various fields are very dynamic and constantly evolving, and anyone in the fields needs to prepare to be adaptive by lifelong learning.
What will help Information Developers increase their earning potential?
Joseph Taylor: The role of a Business Analyst can vary greatly from company to company, and even from department to department, so it is very important to look at the details of a particular position that you are applying for. One common factor from all Business Analyst is that they are generally expected to make sense of data, and to be effective communicators that can apply insights to real-world problems.
Dr. Harvey James Jr., PhD
Professor of Agricultural and Applied EconomicsUniversity of Missouri - Columbia
Agricultural Business And Management
What Information Developer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Harvey James Jr., PhD: Keep skills current by taking advantage of all professional development opportunities that arise. For example, if you completed an undergraduate (i.e., B.A. or B.S. degree), then if your company will pay for or subsidize an MS degree, you should accept that offer. Showing a willingness and ability to learn and adapt is crucial in a workplace environment that is expected to change, especially when it is not clear today what that change will look like tomorrow.
What general advice would you give to an Information Developer?
Erastus Ndinguri: A couple of ways to maximize your salary potential are;
Through first salary negotiation - By understanding the job market of your field, knowing what you can offer and preparing well for your salary negotiation you can positively maximize your first salary potential. This can affect your future earnings especially if you rise up the corporate ladder in the same organization.
Not settling, but continuing to learn- Learn a new skill that will help in building your resume. Network with colleagues in your organization and learn from them. Continuous learning and self-improvement create opportunities for higher earnings.
Embrace mentorships- Having a good seasoned colleague/mentor can open opportunities for higher earning. A mentor can help you prepare for a salary negotiation and also steer you to the right projects that lead to career advancements hence a higher salary.
Rick DelVecchio
Director of Career DevelopmentQuinnipiac University
Liberal Arts And Sciences, General Studies And Humanities
What general advice would you give to an Information Developer?
Rick DelVecchio: Internships and experiential learning help you build a portfolio of skills and experiences that prove you can bring value to future organizations. Make the most of those opportunities and make sure your resume shows the impact you had. Also, be sure to negotiate your initial job offer! Most employers have a range rather than a set number for compensation. Always negotiate the first offer you receive and try to maximize your initial earnings. Lastly, money follows impact. Track your own performance against the key performance metrics for your role. Be ready to go into your first performance review with data that proves you make a difference for the organization to justify any promotion or compensation increase you are seeking.
What general advice would you give to an Information Developer?
Dr. Frank Mitropoulos Ph.D.: As you begin your career in Computer Applications, remember that the technology industry highly values adaptability and continuous learning. Commit to staying current with emerging technologies, programming languages, tools, and methodologies. Engage in online courses, attend workshops, and network with other professionals in your field. This dedication to self-learning and the connections you make can lead to job opportunities, mentorship, and collaborations that could shape your future career path.
What Information Developer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Frank Mitropoulos Ph.D.: Maximizing your salary potential as a new graduate with a Computer Applications degree involves strategic positioning, skill enhancement, and effective negotiation. Following are a few strategies to help increase your salary now and in the future: Specialize in High-Demand Areas: Identify and specialize in high-demand areas that generally offer higher salaries. Build a Strong Portfolio: Develop a portfolio that showcases your skills. A compelling portfolio can strengthen your position during salary negotiations. Develop Soft Skills: While technical skills are essential, soft skills like problem-solving, communication, and leadership hold equal significance. Enhancing these skills can give you an edge in negotiations. Do your Homework and Negotiate: Some industries and locations offer higher salaries. Decide what type of industry you want to focus on and do the background research needed to determine whether your skills will help as leverage. Use your portfolio, certifications, and skill set to strengthen your position. Be ready to articulate your value and how you can contribute to the company's success.
What will help Information Developers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Frank Mitropoulos Ph.D.: As we look toward the future of careers in Computer Applications, several skills stand out for their growing importance. These skills revolve around specific technologies that are expected to continue to grow and evolve. Technologies related to Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, and Data Science are quickly evolving and being applied across the technology sector. Cloud Computing: Given the widespread adoption of Cloud services, Cloud computing expertise is indispensable. Understanding how to leverage platforms like Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud is crucial to developing scalable, efficient solutions that meet business needs. Artificial Intelligence: AI and Machine Learning are transforming the world. Skills in these areas to solve real-world problems will be even more critical in the future. Cybersecurity: Digital threats are becoming more sophisticated. Safeguarding data, networks, and systems will require encryption, intrusion detection, development, and regulation skills. Data Science: Skills in Data Science will be increasingly sought after as businesses embrace data-driven decision-making. Extracting meaningful insights from extensive datasets and effectively communicating these findings will be essential. Soft skills: Finally, soft skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication cannot be overlooked. Adapting, communicating, and leading will be essential for success.
Mr. Mark Pranger
Instructor, School of Creative and Information TechnologiesOklahoma State University Institute of Technology - Okmulgee
Mining And Petroleum Technologies/Technicians
What Information Developer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Mr. Mark Pranger: The biggest advice here is to show the organization the long haul. It costs a lot of money to advertise, find, recruit, hire, and train employees in our field. The company wants to know their return on that investment will be higher. A large technical breadth versus a deep technical understanding is the balance you have to maintain. Many companies I deal with as an internship coordinator tell me that they can train the technical niche needs that they have but the student has to be able to show that they can learn and absorb that knowledge and put it to use. Going back to the portfolio, this gives someone looking at it insight into what extent you can learn, absorb, and produce. I personally am a true believer in the depth over breadth in the computer science programming field. While syntax changes from language to language, the concepts that we use to engineer our software remain the same. So Java does one activity different than C# or Ruby, that concept though will be important and the syntax can be picked up easier if you understand the concept. To me, a deeper understanding of one language and the ability to adapt quickly to another language is more important than having a little knowledge in a wide breadth of language but no depth. I have been in this field for 30 years now and probably know about half that number of languages that I have used over those 30 years. I didn't start with all those languages, but I did start with a very deep understanding of just one or two. I could spend my time quickly learning syntax to pick up a new language for a new position because I understood the concepts so well in my root language. Learn it deep, understand it deep and show you can transfer it across laterally. Put together that portfolio. The portfolio reinforces the narrative I discussed in the earlier question also.
What will help Information Developers increase their earning potential?
Mr. Mark Pranger: My first piece of advice a student graduating is to not wait until the last minute to do any networking in their field. If your college/university offers career fairs, start attending those as soon as possible. Start putting your name and associated face out there so when HR sees the name on the resume, they already know the face that goes with it. Put in the shoe leather or other sole material in early and often as possible. My second piece of advice is to target your cover letter, resume, and subsequent contacts such as interviews to the individual companies. Show them that you have taken the time to get to know the company. You may find common ground or may find that you are not a good match. Your time as well as their time is valuable, invest in well into finding the match for you that you can work at and feel rewarded. Make sure to clean up those resumes and other written communications before you send them. One simple grammar or spelling mistake could remove you from consideration in their very competitive world. Practice interviewing if at all possible. Go to any mock interviews your institution offers or clubs offer. If there is not any, ask those in the industry or management positions that you might know to mock interview you for the practice. Show respect for their time and be serious about the mock interview. Show up in person dressed like you are doing a real interview. Your entire interaction with a company and their representatives is your chance to create the narrative they will remember. In that narrative, you take them on the journey of getting to know you, finding out you are a good match to the company, and a good match to the position to which you are applying. The outcome you want is that job offer. One might notice my advice is not technical but more in the way you are looking for a position. Once you get into the position, the actual question that was asked here, start by absorbing anything they are willing to throw at you. Look for opportunities to show the company what you can do and what they can expect from you. Be mindful of your plate size and don't take on too much too early. They will remember two major things about your early days: That you tried and how you handled success and failure. Continue your networking at the job. Though we are in a technical field, we will interact with others not in our field. Our written and verbal communication skills will be put to the test. Nothing kills a great presentation idea more than bad communication skills. Never assume you are the best. Always work on the premise that someone is better and strive to become better. The education has given you the technical side of the coin. But it takes the non-technical side such as communication skills to showcase to others and your company your technical prowess. If you have not already, put together a portfolio of your work. Show the employers what you have done in the field. This includes what you did in school as projects. Having interacted with many hiring managers through advisory committees, one thing that keeps coming up is the creation of a portfolio. Those are not just for the artist, they are for anyone to show what they can do. Don't give up. The pile of rejection letters may become larger before that right position and company comes your way. You do have to search for it but it is out there.
What general advice would you give to an Information Developer?
Mr. Mark Pranger: The first skill would be one I mentioned up in the first question and that is your communication skills. Not only is it important now, but it will also remain important as time goes forward. A skill that many overlook is the ability to teach yourself. We are in a technical field that changes daily. I do countless interviews with students doing their internships and, on the way, out the door, I give the advice of being a lifelong learner. Be prepared to reinvent yourself in about 5 to 10 years. Our technology changes and is that demanding of us. Do not depend on your company to direct your self-learning. Your career is your responsibility. So, oversee your learning. The company may teach you new skills, but they will be skills they want you to have. It might take you far into the company but you still have to manage your career for your best results. My next piece of advice is to consider a non-technical advanced degree. Consider a business degree to complement your technical degree. As you move up in the organization, things like finance, management, and other business disciplines will increase in importance. You may end up managing a department or even the entire organization's technical future. You will need to understand how all those pieces of the business interact with each other and the related business environment. My last skill to suggest is the skill to maintain a work and life balance. If you put too much into work, you may wake up one day and ask yourself, is it worth it? When one spends all their time working to get ahead, when do they get time to be ahead and enjoy it?
MARLA KRAMER
Assistant Vice President of Marketing and CommunicationsWhat Information Developer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
MARLA KRAMER: Computer Science, and IS in general, is a field that is constantly evolving. It is not enough to know what everybody else knows. Becoming a subject matter expert with deep knowledge is important to be successful in the long run. You have to pick your area of expertise carefully, keep yourself focused and educated in that specific area, and be prepared for a career of continuous learning.
What general advice would you give to an Information Developer?
MARLA KRAMER: Do the necessary course work from a reputed institution, where you can get the necessary hands-on experience under the tutelage of an established expert. Create a portfolio of your work on GitHub so that you can share your projects with potential employees. It is more important to demonstrate your skills through code, than it is to provide a list of classes that you have taken. Certification courses are expensive, but getting an accredited certificate in Mobile Application Development or any of the rapidly growing fields is always an advantage. The internet has a lot of uncurated, self-published, and incorrect information, especially when it comes to computer science. It is important that you pick your sources wisely as you build your skills.
What will help Information Developers increase their earning potential?
MARLA KRAMER: It is unlikely that software development will be fully automated in the near future. Writing correct and efficient applications is a skill set that will only grow as we invent more ways to improve the quality of our lives. As more and more commerce and critical services migrate onto the internet, IS development will require a deeper knowledge of cybersecurity, data analytics, and cloud computing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Information Security Analysis jobs are expected to grow by 32% over the next 10 years. The BLS estimates Software Developers, Quality Assurance and Testing will grow by 25% over the next decade.
Right now, however, software development is going through a lull because of competition from abroad. Being an expert in at least two popular programming languages, having a solid theoretical foundation, and being able to innovate is pivotal. Artificial Intelligence is being deployed to solve some problems now, thanks to the powerful computers we have today. Learning to effectively use AI frameworks as part of your application development will add a lot of value to your skillset.
Izzat Alsmadi
Associate ProfessorTexas A&M University San Antonio
Computer Science
What will help Information Developers increase their earning potential?
Izzat Alsmadi: The market is very large, make your deep analysis on top trending jobs, their pays and requirements, unlikely to have high paying jobs for fresh graduates with extra skills, certificates, etc.
What general advice would you give to an Information Developer?
Izzat Alsmadi: Computing fields are unique that they have a very large spectrum of possible jobs.
New graduates should be open and flexible to seek opportunities beyond a narrow focus that they may have in mind.
The degree itself is a great start but in most cases will not be enough and you have to seek own training in new software, tools, etc.
Certificates can be also important for some particular sub-disciplines (e.g. cyber security)
What Information Developer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Izzat Alsmadi: With the quick and rapid evolution language models, they are expected to be great assets in accelerating many jobs. Its important for new graduates to be aware of such models or tools and how they can be used
Programming skills will still be important but languages will be more mature and graduates need to be aware of the different available tools and resources online and how they can be used
What will help Information Developers increase their earning potential?
Anil Agarwal: Some skills will always be in Demand - such as Interpersonal communications , Project Management , Learning different languages and having great listening skills. What new skills will be in demand : Social media, content and Digital marketing. Data Analytics and or Business Analytics. Cross cultural management , Leadership Skills. Financial Management . Getting an MBA, MFS ( Masters of Finance ) , MSM ( Masters in Analytical Marketing ) or a Masters in Economics or an MHA ( Masters in Health Sciences. The fields of Bio Technology are also exploding if that is your bent of mind.
Travis Grosser Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Management (@ UConn School of Business)University of Connecticut
Human Resources Management And Services
What Information Developer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Travis Grosser Ph.D.: The following are critical skills that will grow in importance in the coming years:
1. Innovative and Critical Thinking: The ability to think creatively and critically to solve complex problems will be highly valued, especially in a rapidly changing business landscape.
2. Emotional Intelligence: The ability to understand and manage one's own emotions, as well as empathize with others, will be crucial for successfully navigating a workplace where change, diversity, and collaboration will continue to increase.
3. Leadership and Change Management: Skills in leading teams, managing change, and inspiring innovation will be essential as businesses navigate through transitions and transformations.
4. Digital Literacy and Technological Proficiency: As technology continues to evolve rapidly, proficiency in digital tools and platforms will be crucial. Understanding emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain/Web3, and data analytics will be increasingly valuable.
Tina Ashford
Professor of Information Technology/Faculty Curator of the Museum of Technology/DoIT Internship CoordinatorMiddle Georgia State University
Computer And Information Sciences And Support Services
What general advice would you give to an Information Developer?
Tina Ashford: Technical expertise is crucial: cloud fluency, cybersecurity awareness, and understanding Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) potential, however, soft skills are equally important - clarity in communication, seamless collaboration, and an ever-growing appetite for learning to adapt to the ever-changing tech landscape. Even with AI on the scene, uniquely human problem-solving and fresh ideas will set you apart. This blend of technical and soft skill agility, and never-ending curiosity should bring you success in the field of IT.
What Information Developer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Tina Ashford: Build relationships with professionals in your industry. This can lead to new opportunities and provide valuable insights. If you have multiple job offers, use them to negotiate a better deal. However, remember to consider factors like career growth and job satisfaction along with the salary. Keep improving your skills through courses, certifications, or volunteering. The more skilled you are, the higher your earning potential. Don't hesitate to seek advice from career coaches, mentors, or HR professionals. They can provide personalized guidance to help you navigate your career path. Remember, increasing your earnings is a continuous process, not a one-time event. By strategically investing in your skills and staying informed about your industry, you can confidently navigate and achieve a fulfilling and financially rewarding career.
What will help Information Developers increase their earning potential?
Tina Ashford: My first piece of advice is to embrace lifelong learning. Tech never sleeps, so neither should your curiosity. View mistakes as growth opportunities, and stay a student forever. Next, optimize your communication and teamwork skills to bridge the gap between techies and everyone else. Critical thinking is your secret sauce, so use it to solve problems creatively and anticipate the future. Finally, specialization is great, but keep an open mind. A broader skillset makes you adaptable, ready to seize unexpected opportunities. Network actively, build relationships, and most importantly, stay passionate. Let your tech enthusiasm fuel your career.
Rebecca Allen
Mount St. Joseph University
Special Education And Teaching
What general advice would you give to an Information Developer?
Rebecca Allen: AI, for sure. I have heard it said that AI might not replace humans, rather humans who know how to use AI well may replace humans who don't.
What Information Developer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Rebecca Allen: Get hands-on experience. Join the workstudy program, take the co-op or the internship. Be sure to apply what you've learned!
What will help Information Developers increase their earning potential?
Rebecca Allen: I'd suggest that you hop in to coding and just get started. Even a tiny bit helps. Python is a very popular language, and free to download (Python.org). Once you download, there are some many ways to start learning coding. My personal favorites are Mimo and LearnPython.org. You can also ask ChatGPT for suggestions-remember that ChatGPT can often help your write and explain simple code. Don't understand something? Ask ChatGPT!