As of January 01, 2026, the average annual salary for Technical Lead Software Engineer in the US is $117,774, equivalent to $57 per hour, $2,265 weekly, or $9,815 monthly. These figures, sourced from Salary.com’s real-time job posting scans, highlight competitive earning potential for Technical Lead Software Engineer in cities like Santa Clara, San Jose, and Fremont.

Annually Salaries for Technical Lead Software Engineer in the US vary widely, spanning from $99,985 to $137,158. Most professionals fall between the 25th percentile ($108,463) and 75th percentile ($127,920), while top earners (90th percentile) make $137,158 per year. This $19,457 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 Technical Lead Software Engineer often earn 10.7% above national averages due to demand from Fortune 61 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
Technical Lead Software Engineer Salaries by Percentile
Percentile Salary Location Last Updated
10th Percentile Technical Lead Software Engineer Salary $99,985 US January 01, 2026
25th Percentile Technical Lead Software Engineer Salary $108,463 US January 01, 2026
50th Percentile Technical Lead Software Engineer Salary $117,774 US January 01, 2026
75th Percentile Technical Lead Software Engineer Salary $127,920 US January 01, 2026
90th Percentile Technical Lead Software Engineer Salary $137,158 US January 01, 2026
25% $108,463 10% $99,985 90% $137,158 75% $127,920 $117,774 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click
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What is A Technical Lead Software Engineer ?

The salary for a Technical Lead Software Engineer typically ranges from $100,000 to $160,000 annually, depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific industry. This role involves overseeing software development projects, guiding a team of engineers, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality software solutions. Responsibilities include designing system architecture, conducting code reviews, and mentoring junior developers. Technical Leads are expected to possess strong programming skills, proficiency in various technologies, and the ability to communicate effectively with s...

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

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Job Openings for Technical Lead Software Engineer

Career Path for this job

  1. Down a level:

    Software Engineer II

    2 - 4 years experience
    Bachelor's Degree

  2. This Job:

    Technical Lead Software Engineer

    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 Technical Lead Software Engineer, base salary plus other pay elements

Average Base Salary

Core compensation

 
 
 
108463
127920
117774

Average Total Cash Compensation

Includes base and annual incentives

 
 
 
117342
143948
129997
These charts show the average base salary (core compensation), as well as the average total cash compensation for the job of Technical Lead Software Engineer in the United States. The base salary for Technical Lead Software Engineer ranges from $108,463 to $127,920 with the average base salary of $117,774. The total cash compensation, which includes base, and annual incentives, can vary anywhere from $117,342 to $143,948 with the average total cash compensation of $129,997.

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For a real-time salary target, tell us more about your role in the four categories below.

108463
127920

 

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