Digital Accessibility Salary Guide Insights

How much would you pay an accessibility specialist to audit your website? Keep in mind that corporate sites often have over 100 pages. Over 96% of these sites have digital accessibility (a11y) defects, and automated tools will not solve all of your problems.

A thorough audit typically demands hours of work from a certified expert. Plus, testing isn’t the only a11y service today’s businesses require. And it isn’t easy to put a number on any need, but if you want to do right by people with disabilities and your company, you have to do more than take your best guess at a fair rate.

Onward Search’s recent 2024 Digital Accessibility Salary Guide features the most up-to-date pay ranges for a11y roles, including accessibility testers, program managers and more. The guide explores all the most in-demand professions in the field, top cities for talent, and insights to know. While the full resource covers everything you need to set your salaries for success, here are a few key takeaways, organized by section:

Introduction: From Niche to Necessity
In-Demand a11y Roles: Developers Win Top Spot
a11y Salary Data: Directors Earn $250K Annually
Top Cities for a11y Experts: New York City Ranks #1
a11y Insights: The Disability Market Controls $13T

1. Introduction: From Niche to Necessity

The demand for digital accessibility talent is approaching an all-time high at US-based companies across industries. This surge comes as the nation is reaching unprecedented levels of digital activity, and every person deserves equal access to each digital space. In addition, making digital assets accessible drives brand reach, improves user experiences, and prevents costly lawsuits – one of many factors contributing to recent increases in digital accessibility talent salaries.

2. In-Demand a11y Roles: Developers Win Top Spot

Our 2024 Digital Accessibility Salary Guide breaks down the top 10 most sought-after a11y jobs of the year based on client demand. And ‘Digital Accessibility Developer / Engineer’ took the top spot. These professionals not only audit and remediate digital assets but empower organizations to develop products with inclusivity in mind. Their responsibilities demand they bring a11y expertise to every stage of the product life cycle. Due to the unique combination of skills required for the job, qualified candidates hard to find but valuable contributors at all stages of a11y maturity.

3. a11y Salary Data: Directors Earn $250K Annually

Although a11y developers are the most in-demand, directors or executives command the highest salaries, according to the 2024 Digital Accessibility Salary Guide. Their role is senior in nature, as it is often the highest position available in the digital accessibility field. Beyond technical expertise, they require the capacity to lead an organization’s entire a11y strategy. In addition, these leaders must manage a budget, direct teams, and advocate for digital accessibility throughout the organization. Few candidates have the experience, making proven directors justified as top earners in their field.

4. Top Cities for a11y Experts: New York City Ranks #1

Whether you’re hiring an a11y engineer, executive, or any other role, location matters. Different cities have varying living costs, laws, and professionals available for hire. Due to the competitive salaries and opportunities in New York City (NYC), it is listed as the top US destination for a11y experts. In addition, more web accessibility lawsuits are filed in New York State than any other, making a11y a top priority for its employers. To calculate the right salary figures for NYC or any US city, use the percentage multipliers in any of our 2024 Salary Guides.

5. a11y Insights: The Disability Market Controls $13T

Known to be the world’s largest minority, the disability market controls $13 trillion in annual disposable income. In addition, anyone can join this group at any time. And many people, friends and family members inevitably will due to aging and unforeseen circumstances. Today’s digital accessibility salary figures reflect the vast size of the disability community. As it continues to expand, the earning potential of a11y experts is expected to rise across positions.

Many variables influence the decisions of digital accessibility professionals. However, compensation remains among the top reasons companies win and lose great hires. As such, the 2024 Digital Accessibility Salary guide isn’t just a resource for job seekers but a strategic tool for employers. By understanding the evolving landscape, in-demand roles, and salary expectations, you can make competitive offers, attract top a11y talent, and make your digital experiences accessible to all.