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Software Systems Development Manager Salary in the United States

How much does a Software Systems Development Manager make in the United States?

As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Software Systems Development Manager in the United States is $151,897 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $73.

However, a Software Systems Development Manager's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $176,668
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $145,884 to $164,863
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $140,409
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View as table View as graph 25% $145,884 10% $140,409 90% $176,668 75% $164,863 $151,897 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click

Software Systems Development Manager Salaries by Percentile

Annual
Salary
Monthly
Pay
Weekly
Pay
Hourly
Wage
75th Percentile $164,863 $13,739 $3,170 $79
Average $151,897 $12,658 $2,921 $73
25th Percentile $145,884 $12,157 $2,805 $70
Check out Software Systems Development Manager Job Openings in the United States
Software Development Manager

TherapyNotes.com - HORSHAM, PA

System Software Engineer

FUSE Engineering - FORT MEADE, MD

Software Engineer II

Shadow Strategies, LLC - COLUMBIA, MD

Full

Talos Mission Solutions - ARLINGTON, VA

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Key Factors That Influence Software Systems Development Manager Salaries

A Software Systems Development Manager'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 Systems Development Manager Salaries?

Experience is a primary driver of a Software Systems Development Manager'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:

  • Entry-Level (less than 1 year): $149,653
  • Early Career (1-2 years): $149,923
  • Mid-Level (2-4 years): $150,820
  • Senior-Level (5-8 years): $151,897
  • Expert (over 8 years): $155,187
Levels Salary
Entry Level Software Systems Development Manager$149,653
Intermediate Level Software Systems Development Manager$149,923
Senior Level Software Systems Development Manager$150,820
Specialist Level Software Systems Development Manager$151,897
Expert Level Software Systems Development Manager$155,187
$149,653 0 yr
$149,923 < 2 yrs
$150,820 2-4 yrs
$151,897 5-8 yrs
$155,187 > 8 yrs
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What Am I Worth?

Top Paying Cities for Software Systems Development Managers

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: $191,588
  • San Francisco: $189,704
  • Oakland: $185,497

Software Systems Development Manager Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Software Systems Development Manager'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 Systems Development Manager Salary Growth & Career Path

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Software Systems Development Manager, 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 Systems Development Manager Salary Growth and Career Path
Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Software Systems Development Senior Manager $178,818 18%
ERP Configuration Senior Manager $165,668 9%
Software Systems Engineering Senior Manager $169,921 12%

Most common benefits for Software Systems Development Manager

Social Security
401(k)
Disability
Healthcare
Pension
Time Off (days)
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Common company salaries for Software Systems Development Manager

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FAQ about Software Systems Development Manager

1. Where can a Software Systems Development Manager earn the most?

A Software Systems Development Manager'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, a Software Systems Development Manager earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Software Systems Development Manager is $191,588.

2. What is the highest pay for Software Systems Development Manager?

The highest pay for Software Systems Development Manager is $176,668.

3. What is the lowest pay for Software Systems Development Manager?

The lowest pay for Software Systems Development Manager is $140,409.

4. What are the responsibilities of Software Systems Development Manager?

Manages the team responsible for designing, testing, and maintaining software systems. May assist with identifying users' needs and preferences and provides recommendations on how to implement them successfully. Monitors the analysis, troubleshooting, and resolution of problems. Ensures programming errors are fixed, and system enhancements are coded correctly. Stays current on emerging trends and software systems development best practices. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a director. Manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. Typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1-3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes.

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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