Startup and enterprise owners are having a hard time finding full stack developers who are not just good at front-end or back-end development but are masters of all skills and languages.
While hiring separate developers means they might be good in one area but struggle in others, a full stack web developer can deliver faster projects even on short deadlines and can do the work of 2 people at just half the cost of specialized developers.
In this blog, we'll cover a detailed guide to hiring full-stack developers, what they do, what benefits you will get by hiring them, and how much it costs to hire them in 2025.
Related Posts: Top 15+ Web Development Tools Every Developer Should Know
What does a Full stack developer do?
Generally, full-stack developers are responsible for handling the backend side of things as well as creating an engaging user interface for clients.
The developer should know how to work with technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
These professionals know how to take care of the entire web development process from scratch and adopt best practices to ensure that any technical glitches are addressed at every layer.
As you know, software applications rely on data, and full-stack developers deal with 3 types of data – data as presented, data in motion, and data as rest.
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Data as presented means the part visible to the end user when they open the application in a web browser such as mobile devices, dashboards, self-check-ins, etc.
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Data in motion refers to the processes and algorithms that determine the working of your application.
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Lastly, data at rest means where the data is stored and accessed.
Here, a full-stack developer works with 3 types of data and handles the entire architecture of an application.
Consider a full stack developer as the jack of all trades who doesn’t just look at front-end side of things, rather they look upon the back-end side of development. They ensure how these 2 sides of development would work and communicate with each other.
On the front-end side, you can be as creative because ultimately you will work on creating an interface that’s pleasing and engages the users. On the other hand, you should be ready for handling behind-the-scenes and solving those jigsaw puzzles.
To give you a snapshot, here are the few responsibilities that a full-stack developer can perform -
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Handling entire application development from scratch.
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Profound knowledge of how different technologies work like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
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Possession of team management skills such as how to manage a team of front-end and back-end developers.
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Knowledge of how to work with databases and servers.
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Excellence in testing, debugging, and software maintenance.
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Keeping themselves up to date with the latest technologies and trends.
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Good collaboration when working with other developers and product designers.
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Proficiency not only in front-end and back-end parts of web development but also understanding how these two different areas communicate and integrate with each other.
Why should you hire a full stack developer in 2025?
You might be thinking that hiring full-stack developers is a new concept, but it was decades back. In the 80s, web developers used to work alone and there were hardly any specialists who could divide the work and work on one skill.
As websites become more complex, there will be a need for specialized personnel, someone who can handle client-side and server-side tasks. It’s an inevitable fact that division leads to specialization.
The ever-changing technological advancements and rising growth of digital transformation increase the demand for full-stack development.
Companies today are looking for technical personnel who have hands-on experience while working with different programming languages, and frameworks, and handle a greater project than an ordinary programmer.
Let’s talk about tons of benefits that businesses get from hiring a full-stack developer in India-
1. Cost-effective
Working with full-stack developers can save you money (around 70% of your development cost) in the long run because you get access to a person who can do one or two jobs.
You get everything on one plate, meaning access to the skillset of front-end, back-end developers and QA testers.
This reduces your reliance on looking for specialized experts in three different domains.
They can do the work of three people, adding value to your organization and saving costs. This is a viable option for early-stage or budget-friendly startups who have a project and want a person who can do end-to-end management of the website or web application.
2. Expertise in multiple technologies
Investing in a full-stack developer means working with an all-rounded person who can work with various programming languages, and tools and handle the entire web development process from start to finish.
They know how to work with the front end, backend, different databases and perform debugging. If you hire one specialist, they might do well in one technology, not others.
But a full stack acts as an all-in-one solution that can bring their expertise to the table, and handle everything throughout the development process.
Moreover, it’s a time saver for businesses as they don’t have to rely on different time members and seek separate expertise. By collaborating with a full-stack developer, they can get everything under one roof.
3. Better flexibility
Full-stack developers are a pivotal asset for any organization as they have diversified experience working with different projects and team members.
They have become irreplaceable assets for the organization as they’re compatible with both the front-end and back-end side of things.
They can work at a good pace as they can adapt to the changing needs of businesses, switch between various coding languages, possess good knowledge in creating engaging user interfaces, and manage different parts of a project.
On top of that, they’re familiar with the latest technological advancements and things that run in the background part (not visible to the user).
4. Be more productive
Hiring full-stack developers can be a profitable choice for your business as they can work on different projects at the same time.
You don’t need to hire separate front-end and back-end developers as they can reduce the project timeline. They can switch between different tasks and handle the entire web development project on their own.
As they are pro at managing front end and back-end side of things, it makes them more productive. They can fine-tune the product quickly and do the faster software releases in the market.
5. Great troubleshooters
When working with full-stack developers, you need not worry about troubleshooting errors. Troubleshooting generally occurs at 2 stages of the development process – one during the development phase and another after post-launch.
Thus, businesses won’t have to look for specialized personnel who can troubleshoot errors, fix bugs, and improve the user experience.
They aren’t just good communicators, great designers, or the best troubleshooters, rather they are real problem solvers who know the INS and OUTS of business.
As they know the intricacies of a full system and work with different technologies, they can scan through the codebase, find the loopholes, fix the bugs on the go, and make sure that the website works flawlessly.
When to Hire a Full Stack Developer?
Whether you want to hire a full stack development team or require a specialized software developer for your project, it all boils down to understanding your project needs and how complex your project is.
Here are a few scenarios when hiring a full stack programmer can be a game-changer for your business-
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If you're a startup with a limited budget or you've just come up with a new product idea that you want to experiment with by developing an MVP.
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If you’ve a small project to handle, then you need a full stack developer who can handle both front-end and back-end sides of things.
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You’ve tight project deadlines and want to handle multiple aspects of the project, then there comes the need for hiring a full stack developer.
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If your project has simple functionalities, then you're good to go by working with a full stack development team.
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You have a great product idea but don't know how to convert it into a digital product and are facing technical challenges, then you can partner with a full stack development company.
Technical Skills to Look for When Hiring Full Stack Developers
When hiring a full-stack developer, they must be working with both client-side and server-side programming languages, technologies, and frameworks.
1. HTML/CSS
HTML stands for hypertext markup language used for defining the structure and content of web pages.
This programming language acts as a skeleton of a web page where you will define various elements such as headings, bullet points, paragraphs, links, images, and any other sort of content.
While Cascading Style Sheet (CSS) is about adding styles to the web pages so that it looks visually appealing. It involves styling and deciding the layout of web pages such as color, animations, font, layout, etc.
2. JavaScript
JavaScript is a popular programming language that works on both the client and server side. If you come across websites that have interactive elements or scroll-stopping animations, that’s possible through JavaScript.
It makes the web pages more interactive from adding audio/ video files on the site to using drop-down menus.
3. Frontend frameworks
Here are some popular frontend frameworks-
It’s a popular JavaScript library for the front-end side of web development such as creating dynamic and interactive web pages.
Facebook developed this JavaScript framework.
Vue.js is another JavaScript framework for building user interfaces and single-page applications (SPAs).
Angular is yet another client-side scripting framework used for creating single-page applications (SPAs). Google developed and maintained this framework.
For detailed reading – Which JavaScript framework should you choose: React or Vue?
4. Backend technologies (Server-side development)
JavaScript is used for front-end development, similarly, node.js made its name for the backend side of things.
Node.js is an open-source framework that runs on a JavaScript engine for creating server-side and network applications.
It’s an open-source framework for developing the backend side of web applications and APIs.
Since Express.js runs on JavaScript, developers already familiar with JavaScript can create scalable and high-performing web apps with no more hassle.
Additional Skills to Look for When Hiring a Full Stack Developer
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Conduct technical assessments to check the knowledge of full-stack web developers. Not just look for someone who knows the old school textbook stuff.
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Assess their problem-solving skills to see how they think through the problems. You can give them a small task like asking them to review the existing code. This way, you can find out how they approach new challenges.
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See whether the full-stack development expert can communicate clearly and collaborate effectively with other designers and developers. You can figure this out by conducting personality assessments and team interviews.
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Ask them behavioral questions to see whether they’ve pressure-handling skills or not. Give them an if-and-then scenario and see whether they can find solutions or do they give up easily.
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Do they update with the current trends and technologies? Do they attend conferences or online courses? Are they genuinely curious about expanding their knowledge?
How To Hire Full-Stack Developers for Your Project?
You might hire full stack engineers either –
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To create scalable applications.
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To add new features and functionalities when business requirements evolve.
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Ensure that the website/ web application enhances the user experience.
When hiring a full-stack developer, follow this detailed checklist so you won’t regret wasting your time, money, and efforts in the long run.
1. Assess technical proficiency
Hiring technical profiles isn’t a cakewalk, you need to make a wise decision and be choosy about the candidate you select.
See whether candidates have technical skills or not such as –
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Whether they have some knowledge of front-end technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript?
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Do they specialize in server-side fundamentals such as PHP? REST, SOAP, CACHE, etc.?
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Do they know how to design engaging user interfaces and possess knowledge about UX components?
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Are they familiar with database architecture and design?
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Are they compatible with SQL knowledge? Are they good at data analysis and report creation? You can check their practical knowledge and technical skills by conducting an SQL competency test.
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Should they know how to structure codes?
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Do they possess project management skills?
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Are they multitaskers or not?
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Can they work independently and have a knack for problem-solving?
2. Check out their portfolio
Check out the portfolio of full-stack developers and see what projects they contributed to in the past. How they helped their clients and what results they brought for them.
Review their code samples and ask them how they collaborated with others and what problem-solving strategies they adopted.
3. Understand whether they are culturally fit
The developers you hire should not be only technically fit, but rather they should possess a cultural skillset. Ask them questions and then evaluate whether they can contribute to your organization.
Can they be a good fit for your company? Are they adaptable enough?
Before onboarding developers, clearly define your project goals and requirements. Be specific about your expectations and establish a structured hiring process.
Here are a few platforms to consider for finding a competent full stack developer for your project:
1. Hire an offshore development agency
While you can find many full stack developers on freelancing platforms such as Fiverr and Upwork who offer their services per project (which can be cost-effective), they often prioritize project deliverability over quality.
The better approach is collaborating with an offshore development agency in India. These agencies understand your project requirements and provide resources that match both your technical needs and company culture.
Through offshore outsourcing, you get work completed at a lower cost while still accessing highly skilled professionals. You can interview numerous candidates to find the perfect match for your business success.
The best part is that these agencies have established systems and communication channels to keep you updated on project progress.
2. LinkedIn (Professional networking site)
LinkedIn is another platform where you can find qualified full stack developers. Look for professionals with both hands-on experience in new technologies and a genuine desire to learn.
On LinkedIn, use BOOLEAN SEARCH operators such as AND and OR to refine your search. For example, you can type queries like: "Full stack developer" AND "Node.js" AND "Python"
You can apply filters based on people, groups, and posts. Joining LinkedIn groups provides access to like-minded professionals who are actively looking for projects. Create a post sharing your requirements and expectations for potential candidates.
The downside of hiring developers through LinkedIn is that it's time-consuming, and even when you find a well-rounded full stack developer, they often demand a high salary. It's a challenging part on your side especially if you’re running a small scale bizz.
Another way to hire dedicated full stack developers is through freelancing platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and industry forums such as Reddit and Quora. While you can find developers at lower costs, the question is whether they align with your project vision.
The drawback of hiring web developers through these platforms is their focus revolves around project deliverability rather than end results.
If you're looking to recruit developers on a short-term basis, this method can work. However, these developers are typically just technical people who may not consider what end users actually want, creating a misalignment of goals.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Full-Stack Developer?
The cost of hiring a full-stack developer ranges between $30-60 on an hourly basis. While the cost may go as high as $100 for the senior-level developer.
Full stack developer acts as the tech wizard responsible for all stages of development such as planning, designing, developing, and testing the software.
Various factors affect the cost of hiring a full-stack developer such as project complexity, size of development team, geography, etc.
Let’s discuss these factors in detail –
1. Experience of developers
The more experienced the full-stack developer is, the higher they are likely to charge.
Imagine a person who has decades of experience in full-stack web development, working on various projects, and has a solid portfolio is going to charge more than a junior full-stack developer.
The one who is well versed with various programming languages, strong grasp of web development, and keen to stay updated with new technologies and trends will charge more.
While hiring a full-stack developer, consider evaluating them based on the following core skills-
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How proficient they are with the front-end frameworks such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
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Do they have expertise in backend technologies such as Angular, React, Vue
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Are they well versed with database technologies such as MySQL, Oracle, Cassandra, etc.?
Note: The cost may go up with the amount of experience they have.
2. Geographic location of developers
The cost of hiring full-stack developers also depends on the geographic location of developers.
Countries like North America and Western Europe have higher rates because the cost of living is high as compared to Asian countries like India, China, and the Philippines.
Here’s the cost breakdown of hiring full stack developer (monthly basis)-
Region | Junior developer | Mid-level developer | Senior developer |
USA | $80-120 | $100-140 | $140-200 |
Europe | €80-120 | €100-140 | €140-200 |
India | $20-25 | $25-35 | $35-50 |
3. Complexity and size of the project
The cost of developers depends on how complex the project is such as the features, functionalities, number of integrations, etc.
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Front-end and backend components
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Type of technology used for developing web apps
In a nutshell, it all depends on how complex your project is and what your business requirements are.
If you need a basic website, you can work with junior full-stack developers.
If you need a complex SAAS platform, then you need to find senior full stackers who have expertise in Django/Python backends, React frontend, and cloud technologies.
The cost in this case is higher than junior or mid-level full stackers.
4. Size of company
The pay scale of developers depends on the size and reputation of the company. If the developers deployed for your project work in premier brands such as Google, Netflix, or any big-sized firm, they would charge more.
This means the charges of developers are directly proportionate to the company’s reputation.
Challenges while hiring for full stack developer
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Finding someone who’s proficient with both tech stack – not just familiar with frontend and backend but genuinely capable of building and optimizing systems end to end.
Many developers lean heavily towards one side – which often leads to skill gaps that affect project execution.
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The second challenge is assessing communication and collaboration skills, especially for remote or hybrid roles. Most full-stack developers think they are responsible for writing code and forget making architectural decisions and coordinating with designers.
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Finding someone who hasn’t just technical expertise but also an individual who’s a great cultural fit and has great communication skills is a difficult job. Technical skills are a MUST, but teamwork and mission-oriented environment demand more than just coding skills.
“According to Lisa Richards, CEO of Candida Diet says that
Don’t just find developers with good technical expertise. See whether they’re culturally fit for your organization.
” Once we brought in a technical developer, but he had a difficult time communicating and collaborating with our content and marketing teams causing delays in the timelines.
That experience made me realize that soft skills and cultural fit play a major role in working together towards a common goal.
While hiring the next candidate for technical profile, we conducted behavioral interviews to see how they communicate and work with a team. We then hired a candidate which has good technical knowledge and can possess communication skills.
We reduced development cycle times by 20%, and cross-departmental collaboration increased by 15%. With an emphasis on both technical know-how and cultural background, we’re building a better, stronger team.
What do you need to remember before hiring a full-stack programmer?
“Kiel Tredrea, President and CMO of Red27Creative says -
Before hiring my full-stack developer, I have a clear picture of the specific outcomes that I expect from the project. That starts with defining the project requirements. I prioritize choosing candidates who can balance business needs and technical expertise.
” In nutshell, a full-stack development team should not only be tech-savvy but understand from the user's perspective.
When building a digital solution like a website, a developer should not only think about creating a website but also see how it would be effective in driving conversions and generating revenue.
Why Hire Dedicated Full-Stack Developers from BigOhTech?
Hiring full-stack developers can be a challenging job, but following the above guide can help you do a successful hiring in 2025. It gives you an idea of how to select a suitable candidate that matches your business goals and meets your customer expectations.
Even, a lot of growing startups and product development companies are looking for full-stack engineers.
These people act like a ONE-MAN army because they are good at everything, they are real problem solvers and can handle the front end and backend side of things.
But the question is why are startups and mid-level companies looking for full-stack developers?
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The demand for complex web apps is on the rise.
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Companies prefer hiring someone who is well-versed in all parts of web development.
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They can build websites faster than someone good at one skill.
So, you don’t need to find separate experts for the front-end and back-end side of web development. We got you.
At BigOhTech, we provide full-stack development services that have domain expertise in front-end and back-end technologies.
We understand your project requirements first and then provide you with skilled professionals who are the best fit for you.
So, you’re not just getting an ordinary resource, but rather a multitasker who is apt at following things-
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Frontend and backend languages
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Excellent designing skills
And the list is on and on. Just share your project requirements with us and our app development experts will get in touch with you.
