Crypto Compensation Trends Show Divergence in 2025 Amid Market Contraction

The cryptocurrency industry is witnessing a stark divide in compensation trends as salaries contract but founder pay surges. Dragonfly's comprehensive survey of 85 companies reveals an 18% year-over-year decline in average salaries, now standing at $144,000, with token grants plummeting 75%.

Founders emerge as notable exceptions, enjoying a 37% compensation increase to $197,000. Technical roles maintain their premium, particularly for senior engineers, while product management executives command the highest base salaries. Geographic pay gaps are narrowing, with international executives sometimes surpassing US counterparts through larger equity and token packages.

Early-stage startups are favoring equity over salary, offering twice the equity of later-stage firms. The compensation landscape reflects an industry maturing through market cycles, where technical expertise and leadership remain highly valued despite broader austerity measures.