As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Software Eng in the United States is $113,909 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $55.
However, a Software Eng's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Software Eng'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.
Experience is a primary driver of a Software Eng'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:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Software Eng | $110,223 |
| Intermediate Level Software Eng | $110,776 |
| Senior Level Software Eng | $112,619 |
| Specialist Level Software Eng | $114,830 |
| Expert Level Software Eng | $116,219 |
What Am I Worth?
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 Engs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Leadership | 5.73% |
| Performance Review | 1.91% |
| Managed Care | 1.27% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Results Oriented
|
$169,724 |
49%
|
|
Performance Review
|
$150,360 |
32%
|
|
Relationship Management
|
$143,525 |
26%
|
|
Business Administration
|
$140,108 |
23%
|
|
Analysis
|
$136,691 |
20%
|
|
Goal Setting
|
$133,274 |
17%
|
Understanding how a Software Eng'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, 2026Salaries for a Software Eng can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $104,440 in 2023 to around $103,394 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Software Eng salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $104,440 |
| 2024 | $103,953 |
| 2025 | $103,394 |
| 2026 |
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|
| 2027 |
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|
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Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
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