There is also a big social difference, if not social stigma of being a developer (and other "blue-collar" job in general). In the US, it's not unusual to be in

There is also a big social difference, if not social stigma of being a developer (and other "blue-collar" job in general). In the US, it's not unusual to be in a startup in your late 30's / 40's, and for founders (especially in the bay area) to have gray hair / beard. In France, if you are still a developer in your late 30's and haven't moved to a management, paper pushing, position, you're pretty much a loser. To some extend, there is a general disgust in France for being down the food chain, even if you're a rock star. note: I'm French now living on the west coast, making a figure I'd never do in France.