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Software Research and Design Architect VI Salary in the United States

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

As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Software Research and Design Architect VI in the United States is $221,900 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $107.

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

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $245,590
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $208,200 to $234,300
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $195,727
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View as table View as graph 25% $208,200 10% $195,727 90% $245,590 75% $234,300 $221,900 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click

Software Research and Design Architect VI Salaries by Percentile

Annual
Salary
Monthly
Pay
Weekly
Pay
Hourly
Wage
75th Percentile $234,300 $19,525 $4,506 $113
Average $221,900 $18,492 $4,267 $107
25th Percentile $208,200 $17,350 $4,004 $100
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Key Factors That Influence Software Research and Design Architect VI Salaries

A Software Research and Design Architect VI'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 VI'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 IV (7+ years): $145,647
  • Software Research and Design Architect V (7-10 years): $176,710
  • Software Research and Design Architect VI (10-12 years): $221,815
  • Software Research and Design Architect Supervisor (12+ years): $134,149
  • Software Research and Design Architect Manager (12+ years): $156,563
Job Role Years of Experience Average Salary
Software Research and Design Architect IV7+ years$145,647
Software Research and Design Architect V7-10 years$176,710
Software Research and Design Architect VI10-12 years$221,815
Software Research and Design Architect Supervisor12+ years$134,149
Software Research and Design Architect Manager12+ years$156,563
$145,647 Software ...
$176,710 Software ...
$221,815 Software ...
$134,149 Software ...
$156,563 Software ...
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What Am I Worth?

How Do Software Research and Design Architect VI Salaries Vary from State to State?

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 Software Research and Design Architect VIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:

  • District of Columbia: $245,600.
  • California: $244,700.
  • Massachusetts: $241,500.

Top Paying Cities for Software Research and Design Architect VIs

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: $279,800
  • San Francisco: $277,100
  • Oakland: $270,900

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

Understanding how a Software Research and Design Architect VI'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 January 01, 2026

Software Research and Design Architect VI Salary Growth & Career Path

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Software Research and Design Architect VI, 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 VI Salary Growth and Career Path
Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Applications Programming Project Supervisor $134,200 -40%
Software Research and Design Architect Supervisor $134,200 -40%
Backend Applications Developer Supervisor $139,400 -37%
Mobile Software Development Manager $156,600 -29%

Salary Trends for Software Research and Design Architect VI

Salaries for a Software Research and Design Architect VI can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary from $199,516 in 2023 to around $199,516 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Software Research and Design Architect VI salary trends, .

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

2023
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2024
$199,516
2025
$???
2026
$???
2027
$???
Year Average Annual Salary
2023
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2024 $199,516
2025
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2026
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2027
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Most common benefits for Software Research and Design Architect VI

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

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FAQ about Software Research and Design Architect VI

1. Which country pays highest salary for software architect?

The highest salary for a Software Research and Design Architect is significantly above average salaries in many countries. In the United States, the salary range is between $196,800 and $252,400, with a mid-point of $217,100. This is considerably higher than average software engineer salaries in countries like Switzerland and Israel.

2. What is the highest salary of a software engineer at Google?

The salary for a Software Research and Design Architect ranges from $196,800 to $252,400, with a midpoint of $217,100. This reflects the competitive compensation for such roles, highlighting the value placed on expertise and innovation in software architecture.

3. Do software architects make good money?

Yes, software architects make good money. Based on salary data, the minimum salary is $196,800, the mid-range salary is $217,100, and the maximum salary can reach $252,400. This indicates a lucrative earning potential in the field, reflecting the high demand for skilled professionals in software research and design.

4. Can architects make 7 figures?

While architects can earn impressive salaries, the typical range for a Software Research and Design Architect is between $196,800 and $252,400. With experience and expertise, it's possible to reach a 6-figure salary, and in exceptional cases, some may approach 7 figures, especially in top-tier firms. Your dedication and skill development will significantly enhance your earning potential.

5. Which degree is best for a software architect?

To become a software architect, a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or a related field is essential. A strong grasp of software development concepts and coding skills is crucial. In this role, you can expect a salary ranging from $196,800 to $252,400, with a median salary of $217,100, reflecting the expertise and experience required in this position.

6. Is software architect stressful?

As with most high-level careers, being a Software Research and Design Architect can be stressful at times. You'll face challenging decisions while balancing stakeholder needs and adapting to rapidly changing environments. However, the role offers a competitive salary range, with a minimum of $196,800, a mid-range of $217,100, and a maximum of $252,400, reflecting the responsibilities involved.

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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