VP of Software Research and Design Architecture Salary in the United States

How much does a VP of Software Research and Design Architecture make in the United States?

As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a VP of Software Research and Design Architecture in the United States is $262,100 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $126.

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

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $279,103
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $229,400 to $271,000
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $199,628
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View as table View as graph 25% $229,400 10% $199,628 90% $279,103 75% $271,000 $262,100 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click

VP of Software Research and Design Architecture Salaries by Percentile

Annual
Salary
Monthly
Pay
Weekly
Pay
Hourly
Wage
75th Percentile $271,000 $22,583 $5,212 $130
Average $262,100 $21,842 $5,040 $126
25th Percentile $229,400 $19,117 $4,412 $110
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Key Factors That Influence VP of Software Research and Design Architecture Salaries

A VP of Software Research and Design Architecture'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 VP of Software Research and Design Architecture Salaries?

Experience is a primary driver of a VP of Software Research and Design Architecture'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 Supervisor (12+ years): $134,149
  • Software Research and Design Architect Manager (12+ years): $156,563
  • Software Research and Design Architect Senior Manager (12+ years): $176,821
  • Software Research and Design Architect Director (12+ years): $208,341
  • VP of Software Research and Design Architecture (12+ years): $262,033
Job Role Years of Experience Average Salary
Software Research and Design Architect Supervisor12+ years$134,149
Software Research and Design Architect Manager12+ years$156,563
Software Research and Design Architect Senior Manager12+ years$176,821
Software Research and Design Architect Director12+ years$208,341
VP of Software Research and Design Architecture12+ years$262,033
$134,149 Software ...
$156,563 Software ...
$176,821 Software ...
$208,341 Software ...
$262,033 VP of Sof...
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What Am I Worth?

How Do VP of Software Research and Design Architecture 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 VP of Software Research and Design Architectures. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:

  • District of Columbia: $290,200.
  • California: $289,100.
  • Massachusetts: $285,200.

Top Paying Cities for VP of Software Research and Design Architectures

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: $330,600
  • San Francisco: $327,300
  • Oakland: $320,000

VP of Software Research and Design Architecture Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a VP of Software Research and Design Architecture'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

Salary Trends for VP of Software Research and Design Architecture

Salaries for a VP of Software Research and Design Architecture can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary from $241,895 in 2023 to around $241,895 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of VP of Software Research and Design Architecture salary trends, .

Average Annual Salary of VP of Software Research and Design Architecture Over Time

2023
$???
2024
$241,895
2025
$???
2026
$???
2027
$???
Year Average Annual Salary
2023
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2024 $241,895
2025
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2026
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Most common benefits for VP of Software Research and Design Architecture

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401(k)
Disability
Healthcare
Pension
Time Off (days)
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Common company salaries for VP of Software Research and Design Architecture

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FAQ about VP of Software Research and Design Architecture

1. What is the highest salary for a software designer?

The salary for a VP of Software Research and Design Architecture ranges from $254,200 to $323,500 annually, with a midpoint of $288,600. This data reflects the compensation for this role, highlighting the significant earning potential in the field.

2. Which country pays the highest salary for a Software Architect?

The United States 🇺🇸 offers the highest salaries for Software Architects, with a range from $254,200 to $323,500. The median salary is approximately $288,600, significantly higher than in countries like Switzerland 🇨🇭, Israel 🇮🇱, and others. This competitive compensation reflects the demand for skilled professionals in the tech industry.

3. Which engineering has the highest salary?

The VP of Software Research and Design Architecture role offers competitive salaries, with a minimum of $254,200, a mid-range of $288,600, and a maximum of $323,500. While various engineering fields have high salaries, this position stands out in the tech sector, reflecting the demand for expertise in software architecture and design.

4. How much does a PHD in software engineer make in the US?

The salary for a VP of Software Research and Design Architecture in the US ranges from $254,200 to $323,500, with a midpoint of $288,600. This position typically includes additional compensation such as bonuses, equity, and benefits, reflecting the high level of expertise and responsibility required.

5. What is the high salary of software architect?

The salary for a VP of Software Research and Design Architecture ranges from $254,200 to $323,500 annually, with a midpoint of $288,600. This data reflects the compensation for high-level positions in software architecture, indicating a competitive salary structure in the industry.

6. Which engineering has the highest salary?

The highest-paying engineering role is the VP of Software Research and Design Architecture, with a salary range from $254,200 to $323,500. The average salary for this position is approximately $288,600, making it one of the most lucrative engineering jobs available.

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.)

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