Software Developer Salary
Estimated Pay by Experience Level
Salary by State
Median annual| State | Median / yr | Relative pay |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $178,176 | |
| Massachusetts | $155,772 | |
| California | $153,300 | |
| Washington | $150,116 | |
| Maryland | $149,527 | |
| New Jersey | $149,121 | |
| New York | $146,558 | |
| Connecticut | $146,439 | |
| National Median | $132,270 |
How to Become a Software Developer
Software developers design, build, and maintain the computer programs and applications people rely on every day.
Meet the education requirement
Most software developers enter the field with bachelor's degree. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.
Complete an accredited training program
Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.
Earn the Relevant developer certifications (optional)
Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $87,298 and rises toward $193,114 with experience.
Software Developer salary: common questions
How much does a Software Developer make an hour?
The median hourly wage for software developers is $63.59, which works out to about $132,270 per year for full-time work.
Which state pays software developers the most?
District of Columbia has the highest median pay for software developers at $178,176 per year — 35% above the national median of $132,270.
What is the salary range for software developers?
Most software developers earn between $87,298 and $193,114 per year. The middle 50% earn $107,139 to $164,015, with a median of $132,270.
Is becoming a Software Developer a good career?
Employment is projected to grow 25% (much faster than average), and the role typically requires bachelor's degree. With a median wage of $132,270 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.