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Software Research and Design Architect I Salary in the United States

How much does a Software Research and Design Architect I make in the United States?

As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Software Research and Design Architect I in the United States is $75,200 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $36.

However, a Software Research and Design Architect I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $86,663
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $71,100 to $81,200
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $67,367
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View as table View as graph 25% $71,100 10% $67,367 90% $86,663 75% $81,200 $75,200 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click

Software Research and Design Architect I Salaries by Percentile

Annual
Salary
Monthly
Pay
Weekly
Pay
Hourly
Wage
75th Percentile $81,200 $6,767 $1,562 $39
Average $75,200 $6,267 $1,446 $36
25th Percentile $71,100 $5,925 $1,367 $34
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Key Factors That Influence Software Research and Design Architect I Salaries

A Software Research and Design Architect 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.

How Experience Level Affects Software Research and Design Architect Salaries?

Experience is a primary driver of a Software Research and Design Architect 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:

  • Software Research and Design Architect I (0-2 years): $75,196
  • Software Research and Design Architect II (2-4 years): $94,454
  • Software Research and Design Architect III (4-7 years): $128,666
  • Software Research and Design Architect IV (7+ years): $145,675
  • Software Research and Design Architect V (7-10 years): $176,798
Job Role Years of Experience Average Salary
Software Research and Design Architect I0-2 years$75,196
Software Research and Design Architect II2-4 years$94,454
Software Research and Design Architect III4-7 years$128,666
Software Research and Design Architect IV7+ years$145,675
Software Research and Design Architect V7-10 years$176,798
$75,196 Software ...
$94,454 Software ...
$128,666 Software ...
$145,675 Software ...
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What Am I Worth?

Top Paying Cities for Software Research and Design Architect Is

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $94,900
  • San Francisco: $93,900
  • Oakland: $91,900

Software Research and Design Architect I Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Software Research and Design Architect 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 May 01, 2026

Software Research and Design Architect I Salary Growth & Career Path

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Software Research and Design Architect 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.

Software Research and Design Architect I Salary Growth and Career Path
Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Application Programmer Analyst II $95,300 27%
Software Research and Design Architect II $94,500 26%
Backend Applications Developer II $104,800 39%
Full Stack Engineer Intermediate $105,800 41%

Salary Trends for Software Research and Design Architect I

Salaries for a Software Research and Design Architect I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary from $78,974 in 2023 to around $78,974 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Software Research and Design Architect I salary trends, .

Average Annual Salary of Software Research and Design Architect I Over Time

2023
$???
2024
$78,974
2025
$???
2026
$???
2027
$???
Year Average Annual Salary
2023
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2024 $78,974
2025
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2026
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2027
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Most common benefits for Software Research and Design Architect I

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401(k)
Disability
Healthcare
Pension
Time Off (days)
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Common company salaries for Software Research and Design Architect I

Here are companies hiring for Software Research and Design Architect I and their salaries, click below for more details.

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Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Software Research and Design Architect I job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.

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FAQ about Software Research and Design Architect I

1. How long does it take to become a Software Architect?

Becoming a Software Architect typically requires several years of experience as a software developer, along with specialized training and skill development. This journey often spans 5 to 10 years. In terms of compensation, Software Architects can expect salaries ranging from $72,500 to $91,100, with a median salary around $81,100.

2. What is the salary of architectural design in software engineering?

The salary for a Software Research and Design Architect typically ranges from $72,500 to $91,100 annually, with a median salary of around $81,100. This reflects the compensation for professionals in this role, highlighting the potential earnings in the field of architectural design within software engineering.

3. Where do software architects get paid the most?

Software Architects can earn significantly more than the average salary range of $72,500 to $91,100. For instance, in San Jose, CA, salaries can reach up to $185,933, while Broomfield, CO offers around $164,061. Other high-paying locations include Arlington, VA at $160,119 and Philadelphia, PA at $151,484, showcasing the lucrative opportunities in this field.

4. How much do design architects make in the US?

Design Architects in the US typically earn between $72,500 and $91,100 annually, with a median salary around $81,100. These figures reflect the salary range based on industry data, providing a clearer picture of compensation for this role.

5. Which degree is best for a software architect?

To become a software architect, a master's degree in computer science or a related field is ideal. Candidates should have at least 3 years of experience in designing software solutions and managing complex business cases. Certification in software architecture and proficiency in programming languages like C++ and Java are essential. The salary range for this role is between $72,500 and $91,100, with a midpoint of $81,100.

6. How much do software and system architects make?

The salary for Software Research and Design Architects typically ranges from a minimum of $72,500 to a maximum of $91,100, with a mid-level salary around $81,100. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals can earn towards the higher end of this range.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

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.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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