Software Engineer Salary in the United States

How much does the average Software Engineer make in the United States?


The average salary for a Software Engineer in the United States is between $74,620 and $193,390 as of December 01, 2024. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the actual Software Engineer position you are looking for. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. View the Cost of Living in Major Cities

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Base Salary

Core compensation

$74,620
$193,390
$134,010
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What is a Software Engineer?

A software engineer, sometimes referred to as a software developer, applies engineering principles and methodologies to design and develop complicated software systems and applications. Software engineers focus on analyzing and translating user requirements into an application or control system design. Software engineers may design complex systems for use in aircraft, manufacturing, military, energy generation and healthcare devices. They typically do not perform the actual coding, although in some cases they may. Software engineers generally work in teams to design and develop a computer system.


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Entry Software Engineer
Alternate Job Titles: Entry Software Engineer | Software Developer I

Designs and develops software applications. Performs coding, debugging, testing and troubleshooting throughout the application development process. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Work is closely managed. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience. View job details


Intermediate Software Engineer
Alternate Job Titles: Intermediate Software Engineer | Software Developer II

Designs and develops software applications. Performs coding, debugging, testing and troubleshooting throughout the application development process. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Gains exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Typically requires 2 to 4 years of related expe... View job details


Senior Software Engineer
Alternate Job Titles: Senior Software Engineer | Software Developer III

Designs and develops software applications. Performs coding, debugging, testing and troubleshooting throughout the application development process. May direct a few junior level software engineers. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. Typic... View job details


Software Developer I
Alternate Job Titles: Entry Software Engineer | Software Developer I

Designs and develops software applications. Performs coding, debugging, testing and troubleshooting throughout the application development process. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Work is closely managed. Typically requires 0-2 years of related experience. View job details


Software Developer II
Alternate Job Titles: Intermediate Software Engineer | Software Developer II

Designs and develops software applications. Performs coding, debugging, testing and troubleshooting throughout the application development process. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Gains exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Typically requires 2 to 4 years of related expe... View job details


Software Engineer

What degree or educational requirements does a software engineer need?

Software engineers typically require a minimum of a bachelor's degree in computer science. Courses in mathematics, statistics, and process design are required as a foundation. A master's degree or Ph.D. is generally preferred or required for higher level positions. Many universities offer cooperative education or internship programs with companies or government agencies to provide hands-on experience.

Are software engineers in demand?

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook (BLS), employment of software engineers, in general, is projected to grow about 24 percent from 2016 to 2026. The demand for software engineering will be strong as new devices and innovations will require software to continuously be developed and enhanced. The desire for more efficient automation in many areas will contribute to the demand for software engineers.

What jobs are similar to or related to a software engineer?

Software project engineer, system analysis, computer architect, network engineer, and programmer are jobs that may be closely related to software engineering.

Where can I find more information about software engineer training and career opportunities?

What is the working environment for a software engineer?

Software developers typically work in an office setting, with many having a full or partial remote working arrangement. Software developers generally work in teams where they collaborate with others to design software products.
Job Openings for Software Engineer
Consortia - New York , NY
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SPECTRAFORCE - Bellevue , WA
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LinkedIn - 6 days ago
Crox Consulting Inc - Dearborn , MI
Software Engineer Location: Dearborn, MI (hybrid) Duration: Long term contract on W2 Position Description: The Product Engineering and Management (PEM) division within Global Data Insight and ...
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System Soft Technologies - Austin , TX
Title: Software Engineer Location: Texas Contract 12 months + Rate : 95.00 on W2 Requirements: 8 Required Work experience with Software as a Service (SaaS) and/or Platform as a Service (PaaS ...
LinkedIn - 6 days ago
Venturi - Foster City , CA
Staff Full Stack Software Engineer, Between $180,000-250,000 (depending on experience), California (Foster City) Staff Software Engineer sought for a fast-growth and highly successful healthtech ...
LinkedIn - 6 days ago
Brahma Consulting Group - San Diego , CA
We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to design and implement real-time, high-performance software solutions in C/C++ for advanced computing systems. In this role, you will be responsible for ...
LinkedIn - 6 days ago