In-House Developer or Engineering Firm?
Compare · In-House Developer or Engineering Firm · When Each Wins
In-House Developer or Engineering Firm?
Hiring your first developer feels like the responsible choice. Sometimes it is. Often it means hiring before you know what to build.
Should we hire in-house after a firm builds it?
Is a firm cheaper than a hire?
A fair comparison
When an In-House Hire Is the Better Choice
Software is the core of your business
You have someone who can manage and review engineers
The roadmap is continuous
And the other side
When an Engineering Firm Is the Better Choice
You do not yet know what to build
The work comes in bursts
You need a range of skills that one hire cannot cover
You cannot afford a bad hire
How They Compare
| In-House Developer | Razoyo | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | The US Bureau of Labor Statistics puts median pay for software developers at $135,980 (May 2025), before benefits, recruiting and equipment | System Spec $2,500 fixed; retainer from $1,500 a month |
| Speed to start | Recruiting takes time | A free consultation this week |
| Coverage | One person's skills | A team, with every change reviewed by a lead developer |
| Continuity | Depends on retention | The same senior team stays on the product |
| Best for | A continuous, core roadmap with technical leadership | Defined projects and products, and the step before a first hire |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, software developers, checked October 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
For a defined project, usually. For continuous work over years, an in-house team is often cheaper per hour of engineering. That is where in-house wins.
Other Comparisons
- Freelancer or engineering firm
- Offshore team or engineering firm
- Fractional CTO or engineering firm
- Large consultancy or small senior firm
Every Razoyo price on this page is on our pricing page. Not sure yet what to build? That is the question the System Spec answers, before you commit to a salary.
Pick your next step
Start With a Conversation. It Costs Nothing.
Every engagement begins the same way, with a free consultation. You will leave it with an honest recommendation, including the recommendation not to build.
Free consultation
A working session with a senior person, not a sales rep. Always the first step.
Fixed-price System Spec
A product brief, a real estimate and a build-or-don't-build recommendation, yours to keep either way.
See every price first
Not ready to talk? Every number, from the free consultation to ongoing support, is on one page.