As of July 01, 2026, the average salary for an Applications Programmer I in the United States is $72,917 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $35.
However, an Applications Programmer I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Applications Programmer I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Applications Programmer I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Applications Programmer I | 0-2 years | $72,917 |
| Applications Programmer II | 2-4 years | $95,223 |
| Applications Programmer III | 4-7 years | $122,533 |
| Applications Programmer IV | 7+ years | $143,603 |
| Applications Programmer V | 7-10 years | $166,892 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Applications Programmer Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 6.43% |
| Application Development | 2.53% |
| CSS | 1.7% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Python
|
$79,480 |
9%
|
|
Products and Services
|
$78,021 |
7%
|
|
Java
|
$78,021 |
7%
|
|
Collaboration
|
$77,292 |
6%
|
|
Leadership
|
$77,292 |
6%
|
|
Agile
|
$77,292 |
6%
|
Applications Programmer I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $81,557. While startup companies pay approximate $68,973.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $68,973 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $72,950 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $78,759 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $81,557 |
For Applications Programmer I roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 65% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Software & Networking and Financial Services sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 35% above the average. In contrast, Applications Programmer positions in Construction or Hospitality & Leisure typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Applications Programmer I as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software & Networking | $98,438 | $47.0 | 35% |
| Financial Services | $94,792 | $46.0 | 30% |
| Biotechnology | $91,146 | $44.0 | 25% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $87,500 | $42.0 | 20% |
| Energy & Utilities | $83,855 | $40.0 | 15% |
Understanding how an Applications Programmer I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on July 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Applications Programmer I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Applications Programmer II | $95,223 | 31% |
| Software Architect II | $94,433 | 30% |
| Backend Developer II | $104,785 | 44% |
| Full Stack Developer II | $105,752 | 45% |
Salaries for an Applications Programmer I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $78,255 in 2023 to around $77,573 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Applications Programmer I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $78,255 |
| 2024 | $78,052 |
| 2025 | $77,573 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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An Applications Programmer I's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, an Applications Programmer I earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of an Applications Programmer I is $91,970.
The highest pay for Applications Programmer I is $83,900.
The lowest pay for Applications Programmer I is $65,306.
Performs coding, debugging, testing, configuration, and analysis to develop or modify application programs. Conducts detailed analysis of functional and technical requirements needed to create specifications. Utilizes programming, scripting, or database language to produce efficient code. Performs unit testing of applications. Produces application documentation, including process and data flow diagrams. Provides support for implementing, enhancing, integrating, and maintaining applications. May require a bachelor's degree or equivalent. Typically reports to a project leader or manager. Work is closely managed. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience.
The Software & Networking industry offers the highest average compensation for Applications Programmer I roles, with salaries approximately 35% above the market median.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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