The game development industry has been grappling with challenging storms such as layoffs and studio closures over the past two years. The 2025 GDC Salary Report revealed the financial situation of industry workers and why they remain in the industry despite the challenges. According to the report, the average US-based game developer salary is $142,000.

Average Game Developer Salaries and Employee Satisfaction

According to the survey results, the average salary for game development professionals in the US is $142,000, with a median of $129,000. However, a significant portion of employees are dissatisfied with their compensation. Only one-third of respondents believe they are being paid fairly. A small 5 percent consider themselves overpaid. Furthermore, more than half of employees report being underpaid relative to their role, experience, and current market conditions.

The survey indicates that the layoff crisis facing the industry has deepened over the past two years. One-quarter of respondents reported being laid off within the last 24 months. Nearly half of those laid off are still searching for new jobs. Consequently, the job search process is quite challenging; 40 percent of unemployed workers reported submitting at least 100 applications.

This instability has psychological consequences in addition to its financial impact. A staggering 80 percent of employed workers describe game development as a “less secure” profession than other careers. This figure rises to 98 percent for unemployed respondents.

A concerning finding in the report highlights the persistent wage inequality in the industry. According to the data, employees of color earn an average of 27 percent less than their white counterparts. Similarly, women earn 24 percent less than their male counterparts. However, less than a third of respondents reported that their companies are working to close existing wage gaps. One in ten employees stated that no efforts are being made to do so.

Despite the survey’s challenges, many respondents said they will remain in game development for the next five years, demonstrating the strength of the passion and commitment to the craft within the industry. Additionally, there’s strong interest in unionization within the industry. Nearly two-thirds of respondents expressed support for unionization, particularly among younger workers, the unemployed, and those earning less than $100,000 annually. While less than a tenth of respondents are currently union members, more than half expressed interest in joining.

So, what are your thoughts on game development industry salaries? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!