The Truth About Tech Salaries in 2025

Are salaries going up? Staying the same? Or is it all just smoke and mirrors?

If you’ve been scrolling job boards or having quiet chats with recruiters, you might have noticed something: salary expectations are all over the place right now. Some say the market has cooled, others claim salaries are still rising, and a few industries are holding steady.

So what’s really happening?

We’ve dug into the latest trends to bring you the real picture of tech salaries in 2025 - what’s changing, what’s not, and what this means for your next move.

Salaries aren’t skyrocketing anymore - but they’re not dropping either

The explosive salary jumps seen in 2021-2022, fuelled by remote work demand and tech hiring booms, have levelled out. Companies have become more cautious with salary increases, but they’re still willing to pay well for critical skills.

According to industry reports, here’s what we’re seeing:

• Software engineers: Salaries have stabilised, but top-tier engineers, especially those with AI or cloud expertise, can still command premium rates.

• Data professionals: Still in high demand, but salary growth has slowed compared to previous years.

• Cybersecurity: This remains one of the best-paid areas, with strong salary growth due to ongoing threats.

• Tech leadership: CIOs, CTOs, and Heads of Engineering are seeing strong salary retention, especially in companies prioritising digital transformation.

So while we’re no longer in the era of massive salary jumps between roles, the right skill set can still put you in a strong negotiating position.

The skills that will get you paid more in 2025

If you want to increase your salary, it’s not just about moving jobs - it’s about making sure you have the right skills.

• AI and machine learning – Even if you’re not an AI engineer, understanding how AI integrates into workflows is becoming essential.

• Cloud and DevOps – Companies are paying top rates for cloud security, AWS/Azure expertise, and scalable infrastructure skills.

• Cybersecurity and compliance – With new regulations and constant threats, security specialists are commanding premium salaries.

• Data storytelling and analytics – Businesses don’t just want data, they want insights. If you can translate numbers into actionable strategies, you’re ahead of the game.

Key takeaway? If your skills align with where the market is heading, you’re in a much stronger position to negotiate better pay.

Will companies pay more to keep talent?

Counteroffers are still common, but they’re not as aggressive as they were during the hiring frenzy of the past few years.

Many companies are offering non-salary perks instead, like:

• Learning budgets for AI, cloud, and cybersecurity training

• Four-day work weeks, gaining traction in some tech sectors

• Equity options, especially in startups

So should you move jobs for a pay rise?

If you’re only moving for salary, it’s worth considering:

• Will the new role actually progress your career, or is it just a short-term financial gain?

• Does the company offer long-term stability, or is it hiring aggressively but cutting just as fast?

• Are the perks and flexibility worth as much (or more) than a higher base salary?

What this means for your next move

• If you’re job hunting: Be realistic about salary expectations but don’t undersell yourself. Employers are prioritising skills over titles, so highlight what you can do, not just where you’ve worked.

• If you’re happy where you are: Now is a great time to negotiate internally. If a salary increase isn’t possible, ask for training, benefits, or career progression opportunities.

• If you’re undecided: Keep an eye on the market. Even if you’re not actively looking, understanding salary trends keeps you in control of your career.

Your turn

Would you move jobs for a pay rise? Let us know in the comments.