How Much Do Computer Software Engineers Make?

Denise Wilkinson

In today’s digitally-driven world, computer software engineers are in high demand. With the rapid increase in technology and the ever-growing need for software, it’s no surprise that this profession is becoming more popular.

But what about the salary of a computer software engineer? In this article, we’ll explore how much do computer software engineers make and what factors can affect their earnings.

What is a Computer Software Engineer?

Before diving into the salary details of computer software engineers, let’s first understand what this profession entails. A computer software engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing various types of software programs. They work closely with other members of a team to ensure that the final product meets the client’s needs and specifications.

Factors Affecting a Computer Software Engineer’s Salary

The salary of a computer software engineer can vary greatly depending on several factors such as:

  • Experience – The more experience a software engineer has, the higher their salary is likely to be.
  • Location – Salaries can vary based on where you live and work. For example, salaries may be higher in tech hubs like San Francisco or New York City.
  • Education – A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is usually required for this profession.

    Those with advanced degrees may earn higher salaries.

  • Industry – The industry you work in can also affect your salary. For example, those working in finance or healthcare may earn more than those in other industries.

Average Salary for Computer Software Engineers

According to Glassdoor data from 2021, the average base pay for a computer software engineer in the United States is $92,046 per year. However, this number can vary greatly depending on the factors mentioned above.

Salary by Experience

Here’s a breakdown of the average annual salary for computer software engineers based on their level of experience:

  • Entry-Level (0-2 years of experience) – $72,000
  • Mid-Level (3-5 years of experience) – $88,000
  • Experienced (6-9 years of experience) – $105,000
  • Senior (10+ years of experience) – $124,000

Salary by Location

As mentioned earlier, location can play a significant role in determining a computer software engineer’s salary. Here are the average salaries for this profession in some major US cities:

  • San Francisco, CA – $123,000
  • New York City, NY – $107,000
  • Seattle, WA – $102,000
  • Boston, MA – $101,000
  • Austin, TX – $94,000
  • Chicago, IL – $91,000

In Conclusion

Computer software engineering is a lucrative career with high demand. While salaries can vary greatly based on several factors like experience and location; the national average base pay for a computer software engineer is around $92k per year. With the continually increasing demand for software engineers and the constant evolution of technology; the future looks bright for those looking to pursue a career in this field.