Looking for a PHP developer? Then you’ve likely wondered about the costs involved. While the question is pretty common, finding the answer is tough. Why? Well, first, most people don’t know how much a PHP developer generally charges. And second, even the people who have some degree of idea regarding this matter only know the basics.
They are unaware of other important factors that determine the costs. But no need to stress! This article will help you understand this topic so you’ll be prepared when you seek PHP web application development services.
How Much Does a PHP Developer Charge?
The costs of hiring a PHP developer may vary greatly depending on the developer you choose. The differences are quite substantial. But why this difference? Well, the answer lies in multiple factors (we will talk about them later).
But as of now, we can say that an experienced PHP developer may charge 30-65 USD/hour based on how complex a project is. Look at this chart below. It will give you an idea about the average annual PHP developer salary around the world:
Factors Impacting PHP Developer Costs Worldwide
As we said earlier, this discrepancy in PHP developer costs worldwide depends on various external factors. Here are a few:
- Technology Expertise
PHP developers who have expertise in particular PHP frameworks, such as Laravel, Symfony, etc., or CMS, such as WordPress and Drupal may charge higher costs. On the contrary, a PHP developer who is just starting out may charge anything between 12 to 18 USD/hour.
- Industry Expertise
Various industries have applications built by means of PHP. Developing healthcare and eCommerce solutions is an example of sectors where PHP developers usually charge more for the same.
- Developer’s Location
A PHP developer’s geographical location also matters in determining the costs. Developers who live in countries where the cost of living is high are more likely to charge more. Contrarily, those who live in regions with lesser cost of living or huge market competition charge reasonably. For example, North American PHP developers usually charge 60 to 120 USD/hour, while Indian developers charge about 20 to 50 USD/hour.
- Length and Terms of Contract
The duration and specific terms of the contract are also significant factors in determining PHP developer costs. If the project is brief and the timeline hangs in the balance, developers are more likely to charge a higher hourly price.
- Project Intricacy
Not all PHP development projects are the same. The more the complexity, the higher the costs. This is because an intricate project demands more skills, prowess, and sufficient technical knowledge to deal with those complexities. That’s why you may have to hire experienced and skilled PHP developers to achieve your goals, thereby causing a surge in development costs.
- Project Management Skills
Developers with robust project management skills are highly likely to ask for a higher hourly rate. This is especially true for those who are adept at harmonizing with other teammates. While the cost may be higher, it is a smart decision to hire a PHP developer with great management skills. They can not only elevate the overall quality of a project but also maintain its smoothness.
- Coding Standards and Best Practices
There is no lack of PHP developers out there. But not everyone is reliable. Only a few follow the coding standards and best practices during the code creation process. Naturally, those who are strict about not compromising the quality have a higher chance of asking for a higher price for all their efforts and hard work.
- Responsiveness
There are developers who just disappear after accepting your project and there are developers who respond promptly, never miss deadlines, and are available to fix emergency issues. While the former are of the irresponsible type, the latter – responsible ones typically charge higher prices.
- Freelance PHP Developer vs. Agency
Going with freelancers is typically a more affordable route than selecting an agency. Agencies often have higher fees due to their overhead expenses. However, agencies offer a perk that freelancers don’t – extra services and technical prowess.
Parameters to Consider While Appointing a PHP Developer
Knowing about the PHP development costs isn’t enough, you must have a deep understanding of what parameters to look for when choosing a PHP developer. This helps ensure that your PHP developer isn’t just talking the talk but has the capability to walk the walk, too. Here are some of those parameters:
| Parameter | Description |
| Sufficient Expertise | A PHP developer should have enough expertise in PHP development |
| Top PHP Framework Knowledge | They should know in-depth about major PHP frameworks, such as Laravel |
| Ability to Handle Intricate Projects | No matter how complex the PHP development project is, a reliable PHP developer is one who can deal with it without hassle |
| Remarkable Track Record | A PHP Developer should have a notable track record of delivering quality work and meeting deadlines |
| Nice Portfolio | A PHP developer should possess an extensive and diverse portfolio that will act as an affirmation of their abilities and experience |
| Willingness to Sign an NDA | A reliable PHP developer should be ready to sign an NDA or Non-Disclosure Agreement to keep your project idea a secret |
Conclusion
Going with PHP to create your website is a fantastic decision for your business. However, as various factors influence PHP developer costs, it is best to consider those factors before going on your PHP developer hunt. A developer’s expertise, location, availability, project management skills, etc., play a big role here. So, choose the developer who best suits your needs (and of course, budget!).
Maxwell Sterling is an esteemed entertainment journalist, celebrated for insightful critiques in film, music, and TV. With a Media Studies background, his decade-long career spans top entertainment outlets, where his engaging interviews and articles command a wide readership. An avid film enthusiast and musician, Maxwell’s passion enriches his professional insights.
