As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Video Game Developer in the United States is $62,390 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $30.
However, a Video Game Developer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Video Game Developer'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, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
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 Video Game Developers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Video Game Developers enter the field with a No Diploma degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Video Game Developer with a No Diploma is between $57,312 and $61,825).
Video Game Developer Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 12.5% |
| High School | 12.5% |
| Associates | 0.0% |
| Bachelors | 87.5% |
| Masters | 0.0% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how a Video Game Developer'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 Video Game Developer can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary increased from $45,762 in 2023 to around $45,967 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Video Game Developer salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $45,762 |
| 2024 | $46,585 |
| 2025 | $45,967 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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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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