2. Why It’s So Hard to Get Hired
The reason there are less open developer positions is actually quite simple.
It comes down to two notions:
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Fewer people are needed to build software products.
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More people are looking for jobs than ever before.
Why Does It Take Fewer Developers to Build in 2025?
As the tech industry has matured, the tools and frameworks available to developers have become more powerful and efficient. This means that fewer developers are needed to build a product than in the past.
Recent advancements in AI have even furthered this acceleration. Although LLMs aren't completely replacing developers, it is giving them a significant boost in productivity.
If every developer is now 20% more productive with AI, then a team of 4 can now do the work of a team of 5.
Why Are There More Developers?
Enrollment in computer science programs has surged over the past two decades, leading to more new graduates entering the job market than ever before.
At the same time, recent waves of tech layoffs have displaced many experienced developers—who are now competing for roles that might have otherwise gone to entry-level candidates.
Meaning all these new graduates have little a significantly more difficult time landing a job.
Developers Used To Be In Demand
Not so long ago, things were actually the opposite of how they are now.
There used to be fewer developers than the market wanted, and companies were willing to do whatever it took to get the best talent.
Especially in 2021, when the entire world went online, we saw a significant increase in demand for software developers. However, that promptly ended as the pandemic subsided and economic conditions shifted. Rising interest rates, reduced consumer spending, and overhiring during the boom years forced many companies to scale back. The tech industry shifted from a period of hyper-growth and aggressive hiring to one of cost-cutting, layoffs, and renewed focus on efficiency over headcount.