How Much Does a Head of Software make?

Head of Software made a median salary around $151,432 in February, 2025. The best-paid 25 percent made $168,908 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $137,644. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
25% $137,644 10% $125,091 90% $184,819 75% $168,908 $151,432 50%(Median)
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Best-Paying Cities for Head of Software

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Head of Software profession are Capulin , Des Moines , Folsom , Raton , Santa Fe .
Capulin, NM $157,345
Des Moines, NM $157,345
Folsom, NM $157,345
Raton, NM $157,345
Santa Fe, NM $155,209

Best-Paying States for Head of Software

The states and districts that pay Head of Software the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $182,802) , California (around $181,160) , New Jersey (around $180,010) , Alaska (around $178,860) , and Massachusetts (around $178,696) .
District of Columbia $182,802
California $181,160
New Jersey $180,010
Alaska $178,860
Massachusetts $178,696

What is the Career Path of Head of Software?

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

For Head of Software, the upper level is Software Engineering Director , and then progresses to VP of Software Engineering

Frequently Asked Questions for Head of Software

Q: What is the salary range of Head of Software in New Mexico?
A: In 2025 , the lowest-paid Head of Software in New Mexico earned an average annual salary of $137,644 , while the highest-paid made $168,908.
Q: What is the salary for a Head of Software in California?
A: Head of Software employed in California earned an average salary of $181,160 in 2025.

Average Head of Software Pay vs. Other Jobs

Head of Software earned an average salary of $151,432 in 2025. Other jobs related to Head of Software earned the following average salary in February, 2025. Head Of Software Engineering made $149,122 , Head of Software Development made $92,907 , Head of Application Software Development and Head of Software Quality Assurance made $237,130 and $175,114 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Head of Software

Head Of Software Engineering - Average Salary $149,122
There is currently no job description for Head Of Software Engineering, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Head Of Software Engineering.
Head of Software Development - Average Salary $92,907
There is currently no job description for Head of Software Development, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Head of Software Development.
Head of Application Software Development - Average Salary $237,130
The Head of Application Software Development oversees the development, release, and maintenance of software applications in accordance with business needs. Establishes and directs the strategic long term goals, policies and procedures for an organization's software development program. Being a Head of Application Software Development demonstrates expertise in a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures. May require a bachelor's/master's degree. In addition, Head of Application Software Development typically reports to top management. Responsible for the development of functional or business unit strategy for the entire organization. Defines corporate vision and strategy establishes company direction and focus. Executes multiple high impact initiatives to achieve overall corporate goals.
Head of Software Quality Assurance - Average Salary $175,114
Head of Software Quality Assurance establishes and has overall responsibility for the goals, policies, and procedures for the software quality assurance function. Determines the tools, techniques, staffing and methodologies that ensure the efficient release of quality software features and new products. Being a Head of Software Quality Assurance drives continuous improvement activities. Requires a bachelor's degree. Additionally, Head of Software Quality Assurance reports to top management. The Head of Software Quality Assurance manages a departmental sub-function within a broader departmental function. Creates functional strategies and specific objectives for the sub-function and develops budgets/policies/procedures to support the functional infrastructure. To be a Head of Software Quality Assurance typically requires 5+ years of managerial experience. Deep knowledge of the managed sub-function and solid knowledge of the overall departmental function.
VP of Software Engineering - Average Salary $237,121
VP of Software Engineering establishes and directs the strategic long-term goals, policies and procedures for an organization's software development program. Oversees the development, release, and maintenance of software applications in accordance with business needs. Being a VP of Software Engineering requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to top management. The VP of Software Engineering manages a departmental function within a broader corporate function. Develops major goals to support broad functional objectives. Approves policies developed within various sub-functions and departments. To be a VP of Software Engineering typically requires 8+ years of managerial experience. Comprehensive knowledge of the overall departmental function.