Java, Python, C++, PHP Developer salaries: how much can they earn?

Salary pressure drives dynamic wage increases across various industries The most significant raises are being seen in specialist and managerial positions, particularly in the IT sector. How much can Java, Python, C++, and PHP developers earn? Here's the latest data.

IT salaries amid changing job market dynamics

The IT industry continues its upward trajectory. The digital transformation of companies, governments, and organizations demands the implementation of innovative IT solutions. Websites, e-commerce platforms, operating systems, games, and mobile apps are just some of the projects driven by Java developers and specialists in Python, C++, and PHP programming.

A consistent upward trend in developer salaries has been observed for years. According to the latest Antal 2024 Salary Report, IT specialists rank as the best-paid employees in Poland (excluding management positions). The average salary for developers at the time of the report's publication was PLN 19,259 gross. Despite layoffs caused by market changes, IT salaries have maintained growth, albeit at a modest rate of 1%.

However, competitive salaries are no longer enough. Changes in the labor market have necessitated the introduction of non-monetary incentives. The most desired employee benefits include: additional bonuses and incentives, flexible working hours, remote work opportunities, private medical care, extra vacation days, holiday subsidies, life insurance contributions, commuting allowances, gym memberships. 

Each benefit increases costs for employers, but in a competitive market for top talent, foregoing non-monetary perks in favor of savings can be counterproductive. High employee turnover often renders such savings superficial.

Flexible working hours, one of the most sought-after benefits, can often be achieved through B2B contracts, a popular option in the IT sector. Key advantages include higher take-home pay and greater flexibility.

Java Developer Salaries

Java developers are responsible for creating, developing, and maintaining applications built in Java, one of the most widely used programming languages across industries like finance, banking, e-commerce, telecommunications, and cloud technology.

• Junior (up to 2 years): PLN 7,000–12,000 gross (PLN 60–100/hour)
• Mid (3–5 years): PLN 12,575–19,600 gross (PLN 100–130/hour)
• Senior (5+ years): PLN 18,300–24,500 gross (PLN 150–200/hour)

Python Developer Salaries

Python developers excel in a versatile language used across fields such as data analysis, AI, machine learning, and web development. Python's simplicity and vast library support make it a favorite among both beginners and advanced programmers.

• Junior (up to 2 years): PLN 7,200–11,300 gross (PLN 50–85/hour)
• Mid (3–5 years): PLN 14,000–19,200 gross (PLN 85–160/hour)
• Senior (5+ years): PLN 19,800–26,000 gross (PLN 130–170/hour)

C++ Developer Salaries

C++ is a multi-paradigm programming language used for creating operating systems and applications.

• Junior (up to 2 years): PLN 7,000–14,000 gross (PLN 50–70/hour)
• Mid (3–5 years): PLN 14,000–20,000 gross (PLN 130–150/hour)
• Senior (5+ years): PLN 18,000–28,000 gross (PLN 150–200/hour)

PHP Developer Salaries

PHP, a foundational programming language, powers nearly 80% of websites globally, including applications and web pages.

• Junior (up to 2 years): PLN 11,000–13,000 gross (PLN 60–75/hour)
• Mid (3–5 years): PLN 14,000–19,000 gross (PLN 90–150/hour)
• Senior (5+ years): PLN 20,000–28,000 gross (PLN 130–170/hour)

Below is a summary of the earnings of each specialist:

And the graphic version: 

IT Industry: still attractive or oversaturated?

The demand for IT professionals remains high despite significant shifts in the market. The Antal 2024 Salary Report highlights growing demand in areas like Big Data, DevOps, and cybersecurity. However, recent years have also seen mass layoffs, particularly within large tech corporations. These changes are primarily driven by global cost-cutting measures and organizational restructuring.

Despite these challenges, the IT sector remains one of the most stable and attractive job markets in Poland. Flexible employment models, such as B2B contracts, and competitive benefits enable companies to attract top talent. Increasing salaries in specialist and managerial roles further cement the sector's leading position.

Want to Know More About Salaries for Specialists and Managers in Poland?

Understanding employee salary expectations is invaluable for employers looking to create competitive offers and attract highly qualified talent. Interested in how IT professionals' salaries stack up? Download the full report to explore salary benchmarks for your ideal candidates.