As of January 01, 2026, the average annual salary for computer software engineering in the US is $139,299, equivalent to $67 per hour, $2,679 weekly, or $11,608 monthly. These figures, sourced from Salary.com’s real-time job posting scans, highlight competitive earning potential for computer software engineering in cities like Santa Clara, San Jose, and Fremont.

Annually Salaries for computer software engineering in the US vary widely, spanning from $118,260 to $162,226. Most professionals fall between the 25th percentile ($128,286) and 75th percentile ($151,300), while top earners (90th percentile) make $162,226 per year. This $23,014 pay gap underscores opportunities for salary growth through certifications, specialized skills like Analysis or Software Development, or targeting high-paying regions like District of Columbia or California.

Location and experience significantly influence earnings. For example, District of Columbia computer software engineering often earn 10.7% above national averages due to demand from Fortune 38 companies and industry startups. Professionals are advised to focus on high-growth sectors like to offset market challenges.

Based on HR-reported data: a national average with a geographic differential
computer software engineering Salaries by Percentile
Percentile Salary Location Last Updated
10th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $118,260 US January 01, 2026
25th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $128,286 US January 01, 2026
50th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $139,299 US January 01, 2026
75th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $151,300 US January 01, 2026
90th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $162,226 US January 01, 2026
25% $128,286 10% $118,260 90% $162,226 75% $151,300 $139,299 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click
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What is A computer software engineering ?

Computer software engineering is a dynamic field that involves the design, development, testing, and maintenance of software applications and systems. Professionals in this role typically possess strong programming skills, a solid understanding of algorithms, and knowledge of software development methodologies. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather requirements, create technical specifications, and implement solutions that meet user needs. Salaries for computer software engineers can vary widely based on factors such as experience, education, location, and the specific indus...

Source: (as of 06/04/2025). Read more from

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Job Openings for computer software engineering

Career Path for this job

  1. Down a level:

    Software Engineer II

    2 - 4 years experience
    Bachelor's Degree

  2. This Job:

    computer software engineering

    4 - 7 years experience
    Bachelor's Degree

  3. Up a level:

    Software Engineer IV

    7 + years experience
    Bachelor's Degree

Understand the total compensation opportunity for A computer software engineering, base salary plus other pay elements

Average Base Salary

Core compensation

 
 
 
128286
151300
139299

Average Total Cash Compensation

Includes base and annual incentives

 
 
 
138789
170258
153757
These charts show the average base salary (core compensation), as well as the average total cash compensation for the job of computer software engineering in the United States. The base salary for computer software engineering ranges from $128,286 to $151,300 with the average base salary of $139,299. The total cash compensation, which includes base, and annual incentives, can vary anywhere from $138,789 to $170,258 with the average total cash compensation of $153,757.

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128286
151300

 

Jobs with a similar salary range to computer software engineering : Computer Vision Researcher, Software Administrator, Software Developers