I've been exploring ways to find new web development clients lately, but I'm facing a challenge. The prices for projects on various platforms are extremely low—like around $100 to $200 for a single SPA (Single Page Application). How can anyone make a sustainable living at these rates? I barely have enough margin after taxes, and honestly, spending a whole day for that kind of income feels impossible. I mean, half a day would be reasonable, but this just seems unrealistic. It feels like I would need an insane number of projects to get by. Bigger projects take more time, yet they don't seem to offer much better pay. It seems like everyone wants cheap websites packed with features. For context, a friend is paying about $100 a month for a website that's supposed to generate leads, but the leads seem to pay very little. I should note that I'm not into AI or vibe coding; I prefer developing my own skills. How do others navigate this landscape?
5 Answers
You might consider charging an hourly rate instead of fixed project prices. This allows you to earn more if a project takes longer than expected without underpricing your time.
You might want to shift away from simple websites and focus on selling fully-featured applications that have the web as the front-end. Target larger corporate clients; this way, you can command a better hourly rate.
I've struggled in this environment too since around 2016. I prioritize writing sustainable, high-quality code, treating it as an investment for long-term projects. Others sometimes choose speed over quality, and that’s where they tend to win clients. I eventually opted for a lower-paid analyst role at a large company, which, while not ideal, gives me time to work on my startup idea. It's all about finding a balance between quality work and financial stability.
It's tough because many competitors come from areas with a lower cost of living, making it hard to keep up. Often, they just tweak templates for fast deliverables, which isn't a sustainable model if you're aiming for high-quality outputs.
I’ve got a sales background, and I suggest working on creating a perceived value that’s higher than the price you charge. If clients believe they’re getting more than they pay for, it will change the game for you.
Sounds like a solid approach!