As of March 01, 2026, the average annual salary for computer software engineering in the US is $139,296, 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 $118,112 to $162,020. Most professionals fall between the 25th percentile ($128,207) and 75th percentile ($151,191), while top earners (90th percentile) make $162,020 per year. This $22,984 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 $118,112 US March 01, 2026
25th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $128,207 US March 01, 2026
50th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $139,296 US March 01, 2026
75th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $151,191 US March 01, 2026
90th Percentile computer software engineering Salary $162,020 US March 01, 2026
25% $128,207 10% $118,112 90% $162,020 75% $151,191 $139,296 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click
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Check out computer software engineering jobs in the United States

Specialist, Software Engineering

L3Harris Technologies - PALM BAY, FL

Senior Specialist, Software Engineering

L3Harris Technologies - PALM BAY, FL

Specialist, Software Engineering

L3Harris Technologies - YORBA LINDA, CA

Senior Specialist, Software Engineering

L3Harris Technologies - YORBA LINDA, CA

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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

See user submitted job responsibilities for computer software engineering.

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

 
 
 
128207
151191
139296

Average Total Cash Compensation

Includes base and annual incentives

 
 
 
139509
171140
154556
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 $128,207 to $151,191 with the average base salary of $139,296. The total cash compensation, which includes base, and annual incentives, can vary anywhere from $139,509 to $171,140 with the average total cash compensation of $154,556.

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128207
151191

 

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