Are you interested in pursuing a career as an iOS developer? With the growing popularity of smartphones and tablets, this field is in high demand. However, before diving into the world of iOS development, it’s important to understand the cost of becoming an iOS developer and what benefits come with it.
Education and Certifications
The cost of becoming an iOS developer can vary depending on your level of education and certifications you pursue. If you are just starting out, you may want to consider enrolling in a beginner’s course or bootcamp program. These programs typically range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars and provide a comprehensive introduction to iOS development.
If you already have some experience in programming, you may be able to save money by pursuing more advanced certifications. For example, the Apple Developer Program offers an annual membership fee of $99 for access to the latest tools and resources for iOS development. Additionally, obtaining a professional certification from organizations such as Udemy or Pluralsight can also help you demonstrate your expertise and increase your earning potential.
Tools and Software
Another cost associated with becoming an iOS developer is the tools and software required to develop iOS applications. While some of these tools are free, others can be quite expensive. For example, Xcode, the official development environment for iOS, is available for free from Apple. However, you will also need to invest in other software such as version control systems, code editors, and testing frameworks.
Some popular tools and software for iOS development include:
- Version Control Systems (VCS): Git is a popular VCS used by many iOS developers. It is free and open source.
- Code Editors: Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text, and Atom are popular code editors used by iOS developers. They are all free and open source.
- Testing Frameworks: Jest and Enzyme are popular testing frameworks used by iOS developers to ensure the quality of their applications. They are both free and open source.
Job Opportunities
The cost of becoming an iOS developer is also affected by the job opportunities available in the field. As mentioned earlier, iOS development is in high demand due to the growing popularity of smartphones and tablets. This has led to a shortage of skilled developers, which can translate into higher salaries and better job security.
Some companies that hire iOS developers include:
- Apple
- Uber
- Airbnb
The average salary for an iOS developer in the United States is around $108,000 per year, according to Glassdoor. This is significantly higher than the average salary for all software developers in the country.
Benefits of Becoming an iOS Developer
While becoming an iOS developer can be costly, there are also many benefits that come with it. For example, iOS development allows you to work on exciting and innovative projects, such as creating new apps or improving existing ones. This can be particularly rewarding for those who enjoy problem-solving and working with cutting-edge technology.
In addition, iOS development offers the potential for high earning potential and job security. As mentioned earlier, the average salary for an iOS developer is significantly higher than the average salary for all software developers in the country. Additionally, many companies are willing to pay a premium for skilled iOS developers, which can lead to lucrative job opportunities.
Another benefit of becoming an iOS developer is the opportunity to work remotely or independently. Many iOS developers are able to work from home or for themselves, which provides flexibility and autonomy in their careers.
FAQs
1. How much does it cost to become an iOS developer?
The cost of becoming an iOS developer can vary depending on your level of education and certifications you pursue, as well as the tools and software required for development.
2. What are some popular tools and software for iOS development?
Some popular tools and software for iOS development include version control systems, code editors, and testing frameworks. Examples include Git, Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text, Atom, Jest, and Enzyme.