One of the most dynamic and rewarding lines of work in the real estate business is Real Estate Development Jobs. This typically involves planning, financing, and managing property projects so that spaces transform communities.

Find all-encompassing insights into Real Estate Development Jobs in Los Angeles, NYC, California, and beyond. Learn about roles, salaries, companies, remote options, and application tips for a successful career.

Table of Contents

What Are Real Estate Development Jobs?

Jobs in Real Estate Development encompass specialized planning, creation, and management to bring abstract ideas into reality as real properties. Such as residential buildings, commercial spaces, industrial facilities, or mixed developments combining different types of real estate into community-orientated spaces.

Source: mashvisor

Professionals guide the project at each stage of the project, whether it is land acquisition leasing, or sales. Real estate development is at the junction of business, design, construction, and finance.

From Analyst to Project Manager – Types of Real Estate Development Jobs!

Understanding the various types of jobs that are available can help in making the right decision for you regarding this dynamic field of services.

Real Estate Developers:

A real estate developer is one who possesses a vision of the development of a property project. A real estate developer should have both creative and practical capabilities.

Duties of Real Real Estate Developers:

  • Identify and secure appropriate land or properties
  • Market research and feasibility study
  • Coordinate with architects, contractors, and other experts

Project Coordinators:

Real estate development project coordinators manage projects. They plan, execute, and close developments on time and within budget while ensuring quality standards.

Main Tasks of Project Coordinators:

  • Preparation of project plans and schedules
  • Management of the project budget and resources
  • Coordination with stakeholders and members

Financial Analysts:

Financial analysts are very important in determining the feasibility of real estate projects.

Main Tasks of Financial Analysts:

  • Financial feasibility studies
  • Market data and economic indicators analysis
  • Financing strategy and capital structure advice

Urban Planners:

Urban planners have a prime focus on sustainable and strategic community development. They ensure that all real estate projects are brought by the general goals of urban planning..

Main Tasks of Urban Planners:

  • Creating land use plans and zoning regulations
  • Community consultations and impact assessment
  • Analysis of social and economic impact of development project.

Real Estate Development Jobs Remote:

This job enables professionals to work from anywhere. Therefore, enjoy flexibility and a better work-life balance. Some of the common remote roles include:

  • Financial Analyst: Analyze market data and create financial models from a remote location.
  • Estimated Salary: $60,000 – $100,000 per year.
  • Project Coordinator: Manage project timelines and budgets from a remote location using online tools. Estimated Salary: $50,000 – $80,000 per year.
  • Marketing Specialist: Create digital marketing strategies and manage social media accounts from a remote location. Estimated Salary: $45,000 – $75,000 per year.
  • Virtual Assistant: Run the home office, providing administrative assistance and handling correspondence. 
  • Sum: $35,000 – $55,000 per year.

Must Read: How Many Jobs Are Available In Real Estate Investment Trusts?

Inside Real Estate Development – General Duties and Responsibilities!

Real estate development includes a wide variety of career roles, each essential for turning ideas into physical property products.

Source: douglaswilson

Market Research and Analysis:

Conduct in-depth market research in order to determine trends, analyze demand, and measure the viability of prospective projects. It will include demographics, economic statistics, and competitors’ activities that will be necessary for strategic planning.

Site Selection and Acquisition:

Select a suitable piece of land or property to be developed and acquire it. This encompasses negotiating the terms of purchase agreements, performing any required due diligence, and ensuring that the land is adequately zoned and complies with other land use regulations.

Financial Planning and Budgeting:

Establish detailed budgeting and financial modeling defining project costs and potential returns on investments. Manage fund acquisition in the form of loans or investor capital, and expenses to ensure every expense falls within allocated budgets.

Allowance and Compliance with Regulation:

Navigate the complex environment of local, state, and federal regulations. Ensure that all the permits and licenses are obtained and that every aspect of the project adheres.

Risk Management:

Identify development project risks, which would include uncertainty in finances, construction timing variability, or changes in regulatory policies. The resulting mitigation measures established shall be the ones that offer minimum impact and maintain continuity.

Master These Skills to Excel in Real Estate Development Jobs!

A real estate development job demands technical, analytical, and interpersonal skills for the position to be filled successfully. The main competencies are as follows:

  • Project Management: Must be able to manage multiple facets of a project from start to finish.
  • Financial Acumen: Demonstrated knowledge of financial principles, investment analysis, and budgeting.
  • Communication: Effective verbal and written communication to interact with stakeholders, clients, and team members.
  • Problem-Solving: Identify challenges and develop strategic solutions.
  • Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with construction processes, zoning laws, and real estate regulations.

Must Read: Money6x.com Real Estate – Best USA Property Dealer of 2025!

Unlock Your Real Estate Career – Best Educational Pathways and Certifications!

Building the right educational background not only equips you with essential knowledge and skills but also enhances your credibility and competitiveness in the job market:

Bachelor’s Degree:

A Bachelor’s Degree is often the foundational step for aspiring real estate developers. Relevant degree programs provide comprehensive knowledge and skills essential for the industry.

Relevant Degree Programs:

Relevant Degree Programs
DegreeSpecialty
Real EstateFocuses on property management, real estate law, market analysis, and development strategies.
FinanceEmphasizes financial analysis, investment strategies, and economic principles.
Business AdministrationCovers a broad range of business principles, including management, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
Urban Planning Concentrates on the strategic development of urban areas, including zoning laws and infrastructure planning.
Construction ManagementProvides insights into the construction processes, project management, and coordination.

Master’s Degree:

For those looking to advance their careers or specialize further, a Master’s Degree can provide deeper expertise and open doors to higher-level positions in real estate development.

  • Master of Real Estate Development (MRED): Specifically tailored for real estate development, this degree covers advanced topics such as urban design, real estate finance, and development law.
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a Focus on Real Estate: Combines comprehensive business training with specialized real estate courses, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the industry.

Notable Universities and Programs:

  • University of Southern California (USC): Offers a Bachelor of Science in Real Estate Development.
  • New York University (NYU): Provides a comprehensive Real Estate program through the Schack Institute of Real Estate.
  • Columbia University: Master of Science in Real Estate Development offered through the Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation.
  • Harvard University: Master in Real Estate program through the Harvard Graduate School of Design.

Recommended Certifications:

  • Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM): Commercial real estate investment and analysis.
  • LEED Accreditation: For professionals interested in sustainable and green building practices.
  • Project Management Professional (PMP): Improves one’s skills in managing projects for real estate development.

Top Locations for Real Estate Development Jobs – Hot Markets!

The demand for real estate development professionals varies across different regions. Here are some of the top locations in the USA for Real Estate Development Jobs:

Source: Community

Real Estate Development Jobs Los Angeles:

Los Angeles is a prime market for real estate development. It is characterized by its diverse economy, significant population growth, and iconic skyline. The city’s dynamic environment offers numerous opportunities in residential, commercial and mixed-use developments. 

Hollywood Park is a Notable Project mixed-use development combining sports, retail, and residential spaces

Real Estate Development Jobs NYC:

New York City is one of the world’s most vibrant and competitive real estate markets. Real Estate Development Jobs in NYC offer the chance to work on landmark projects, high-rise buildings, and diverse property types.

Working in NYC provides exposure to a fast-paced environment, extensive networking opportunities, and the ability to work on projects with significant impact.

Real Estate Development Jobs California:

California’s real estate market is robust, driven by its large population, strong economy, and diverse industries. Real Estate Development Jobs in California span various regions, each with unique opportunities and challenges. Key Areas in California are San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, and Silicon Valley.

Real Estate Development Companies – Top 7 Highly Rated Companies in the USA!

Real estate development companies play a crucial role in shaping the built environment by planning, designing, and executing property projects. 

  • Related Companies: Related Companies are known for big projects such as the Hudson Yards in New York City. It designs a combination of places where people live, work, and shop.
  • Hines: Hines is an international real estate company that invests in, develops and operates real estate assets. The company works on office buildings, homes, and shopping centers across many major cities around the globe.
  • Lennar Corporation: Lennar is one of the biggest home builders in the USA. They create neighborhoods with single-family homes, townhomes, and condos in different states.
  • Skanska USA: Skanska USA is one of the world’s leading construction and development companies. They have committed themselves to the development of green projects.
  • Brookfield Properties: Brookfield Asset Management, Brookfield Properties, manages and builds offices, stores, apartments, and warehouses. They operate in many major cities.
  • Tishman Speyer: Tishman Speyer is known for famous buildings like Rockefeller Center and the Chrysler Building. They create landmark properties and innovative urban spaces around the world.

Must Read: Commercial Real Estate Agent – Salaries and Courses in 2025!

Real Estate Development Jobs Salary – Find Your Job in USA!

Understanding salaries in Real Estate Development Jobs is important for anyone looking to start or grow their career in this field. Salaries can vary based on your job role. How much experience do you have? where do you work? and the size of the company you work for.

Source: Community

Average Salaries by Role:

Salaries in real estate development can differ a lot depending on your specific job, your level of responsibility, and the projects you work on. Here’s a simple table showing the average yearly salaries for different positions in real estate development:

RoleEntry-Level SalaryMid-Level SalarySenior-Level SalaryEducation NeededExperience Needed
Real Estate Developer$60,000 – $90,000$90,000 – $150,000$150,000 – $300,000+Bachelor’s or Master’s in Real Estate, Finance, or a related field5-10 years
Project Manager$55,000 – $80,000$80,000 – $120,000$120,000 – $180,000+Bachelor’s in Project Management, Real Estate, or related field3-7 years
Financial Analyst$50,000 – $70,000$70,000 – $100,000$100,000 – $150,000+Bachelor’s in Finance, Economics, or related field2-5 years
Urban Planner$45,000 – $65,000$65,000 – $95,000$95,000 – $130,000+Bachelor’s or Master’s in Urban Planning or related field3-6 years
Construction Manager$60,000 – $85,000$85,000 – $130,000$130,000 – $200,000+Bachelor’s in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field5-10 years
Real Estate Consultant$50,000 – $75,000$75,000 – $110,000$110,000 – $160,000+Bachelor’s in Real Estate, Business, or related field3-8 years
Leasing Manager$45,000 – $65,000$65,000 – $90,000$90,000 – $140,000+Bachelor’s in Business, Marketing, or related field3-7 years
Marketing Specialist$40,000 – $60,000$60,000 – $85,000$85,000 – $120,000+Bachelor’s in Marketing, Business, or related field2-5 years
Sustainability Coordinator$50,000 – $70,000$70,000 – $100,000$100,000 – $150,000+Bachelor’s in Environmental Science, Urban Planning3-7 years

Salary Breakdown by Location:

Here’s a simple table showing average salaries in different cities:

LocationAverage Salary RangeCost of Living IndexHigh-Demand Areas
New York City, NY$70,000 – $300,000+100Commercial, Luxury Homes
Los Angeles, CA$65,000 – $250,000+91Entertainment, Tech, Mixed-Use
San Francisco, CA$70,000 – $280,000+96Tech-Driven, Sustainable Projects
Chicago, IL$60,000 – $220,000+80Traditional, Mixed-Use Developments
Austin, TX$55,000 – $200,000+78Residential, Sustainable Projects
Miami, FL$60,000 – $230,000+90Luxury Homes, Waterfront Properties
Boston, MA$65,000 – $250,000+85Education, Healthcare Developments
Seattle, WA$65,000 – $240,000+87Tech, Manufacturing, Sustainable
Dallas, TX$55,000 – $210,000+75Commercial, Residential, Infrastructure
Denver, CO$60,000 – $220,000+82Sustainable, Smart Cities

Salary Comparison by Industry Sector:

Different areas within real estate development offer different salary ranges. Here’s a simple table comparing them:

Industry SectorAverage Salary RangeGrowth Rate
Residential Development$60,000 – $200,000+3%
Commercial Development$70,000 – $250,000+4%
Industrial Development$65,000 – $220,000+3%
Mixed-Use Development$75,000 – $260,000+5%
Sustainable Development$70,000 – $240,000+6%
Luxury Real Estate$80,000 – $300,000+4%
Public Sector Development$60,000 – $210,000+5%

Salary Insights – Major Factors and Trends in Real Estate Development Jobs!

Factors Influencing Salary:

Several things can affect how much you earn in real estate development:

  • Experience Level:
    • Entry Level Real Estate Development Jobs: Newcomers earn less but can see their salaries grow as they gain experience.
  • Mid-Level: With a few years of experience, salaries increase and responsibilities grow.
  • Senior-Level: Experienced professionals and leaders earn the highest salaries.
  • Education and Certifications: Higher degrees (like a Master’s in Real Estate Development or an MBA) and certifications (like CCIM or LEED) can lead to better-paying jobs. 
  • Company Size and Reputation: Often offer higher salaries, better benefits, and bonuses. May offer competitive salaries and more hands-on roles but might have fewer resources.
  • Location: Salaries are higher in big cities with active real estate markets to balance the higher cost of living.

Impact of Economic Cycles on Salaries:

The real estate development industry is affected by the economy, which can change salaries:

Boom Times:

When the economy is strong, there are more real estate projects, leading to more jobs and higher salaries. Successful projects and increased profits can result in bigger bonuses and incentives.

Recession Times:

During economic downturns, companies might cut budgets, leading to no salary increases or even pay cuts. Less investment in new projects means fewer job opportunities and more competition for available positions.

Read More: Real Estate Appraiser Salary – From $70K To $200K in 2025!

Real Estate Development Jobs Near Me – Your Guide to the Best Positions!

For individuals looking for Real Estate Development Jobs Near Me, local markets can provide different types of opportunities that meet the demand and character of each regional market.

  • Use Job Boards: Indeed, LinkedIn and Glassdoor websites provide options to filter listings based on location.
  • Join Local Associations: Organizations like local chapters of the Urban Land Institute or the National Association of Realtors can offer networking opportunities and job leads.
  • Attend Local Events: Real estate conferences, seminars, and networking events can connect you with potential employers in your area.

How To Negotiate A Real Estate Job Offer?

To get the best pay in Real Estate Developed Jobs it’s important to negotiate effectively. Here are some simple tips:

Source: SHRM
  • Do Your Homework: Use websites like Glassdoor, PayScale and Indeed to find out what others in your role and area are earning. Make a list of your skills and accomplishments that make you valuable to the company.
  • Show Your Value: Explain how your skills and past successes will help the company. Give specific examples of how you’ve made a positive impact in previous jobs.
  • Look at the Whole Package: If the salary can’t be increased ask for other benefits like more vacation days or professional development opportunities.
  • Be Confident and Professional: Approach the negotiation with confidence and a positive attitude. Express your excitement about the role and explain why you deserve a higher salary.
  • Be Ready to Compromise: Understand that negotiations involve give and take. Be open to finding a solution that works for both you and the employer.

Case Studies – Real Life Salary Examples!

Here are some real-life examples of what people earn in real estate development jobs:

NameRoleLocationExperienceSalaryBenefits
John D.Real Estate DeveloperNew York City, NY10 years$180,000Health Insurance, 401(k) Matching
Emily S.Project ManagerLos Angeles, CA5 years$110,000Health, Dental, Vision, Paid Time Off
Michael T.Financial AnalystAustin, TX3 years$75,000Health Insurance, Flexible Hours
Sarah L.Urban PlannerSan Francisco, CA7 years$95,000Professional Development Stipends

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Average Cost Of Living In Austin, Tx – Everything You Should Know in 2025!

Austin, Texas is fast becoming the city of choice for real estate development professionals. Its economy is booming and its culture is alive. Austin’s cost of living is lower than that of other major cities; such as New York or Los Angeles. 

Additionally, Austin provides reasonable costs for transportation, utilities and healthcare. It also has a wide range of dining, entertainment and outdoor activities that enhance the quality of life.

FAQs:

How Long Does It Take To Become A Real Estate Agent In California?

In California, to become a real estate agent typically takes a few months to one year. One needs to do 135 hours of pre-licensing courses, pass the state exam and find a licensed broker with whom to work. The timeframe depends on how fast you finish each step.

How To Apply For Real Estate Agent Position?

To apply for a real estate agent position, first obtain your real estate license. Then create a strong resume highlighting your sales and customer service experience. Apply to real estate firms that match your career goals, attend interviews and showcase your skills and enthusiasm for the role.

What does a developer do in real estate?

A real estate developer plans and manages property projects from start to finish. He finds suitable land, secures financing, oversees construction, and markets the finished property. 

What is a career in real estate development?

A career in real estate development is creating, renovating, and managing properties. This includes roles such as developers, project managers, financial analysts, and urban planners.

How much can real estate developers make?

The annual salaries of real estate developers vary, with the most experienced and the most lucrative being between $50,000 and $300,000+. Entry-level developers will be on the lower end while senior and more experienced developers can get much more through bonuses and profit sharing.

What is the highest paying job in real estate?

The highest paying jobs are real estate developers, CEOs in Real Estate Firms, and Commercial Real Estate Brokers. Such roles require a long list of years in experience and a track record that was served by the employee. They offer a high salary with bonuses and a profit share.

Conclusion:

A career in Real Estate Development is exciting and rewarding. If you are interested, it is a must to have the right education and learn the necessary skills. There are numerous jobs in this field, and your pay may vary depending on where you work and how much experience you have. 

By working hard and learning about the industry, you can build a successful career in Real Estate Development jobs.

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