Software Engineer Salary by Experience Level

Software engineering remains one of the highest-paying and most in-demand careers in technology. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Software Developers (SOC 15-1252) earn a median annual wage of $146,869—significantly higher than the median for all occupations ($48,060).

However, that median represents the full experience spectrum. Understanding how salaries progress from entry-level through staff engineer is essential for career planning and negotiation. The data shows a clear ladder with predictable jumps at each level.

Entry-level software engineers typically hold titles like 'Software Engineer I,' 'Junior Developer,' or 'Associate Software Engineer.' The BLS reports that the 10th percentile wage for software developers is $79,080—a reasonable proxy for entry-level compensation.

However, entry-level salaries vary dramatically by location and company type. A new grad at Google or Meta in the Bay Area might earn $150,000+ total compensation (base + signing bonus + equity), while an entry-level role at a mid-sized company in a lower cost-of-living area might pay $65,000-$75,000.

The mid-level stage represents the steepest part of the salary curve. Engineers who demonstrate strong technical skills and begin taking ownership of larger features typically see 40-60% salary growth during this period. This is also when many engineers receive their first significant equity grants.

At this level, technical skills matter more than credentials. Engineers who've shipped production code, debugged complex systems, and contributed to architecture decisions command premium compensation. The difference between a 'good' mid-level engineer and a 'great' one can be $30,000-$50,000 annually.

Senior engineers are expected to work independently, mentor junior team members, and make technical decisions that impact their team or product area. This is the 'terminal level' at many companies—the point where further advancement requires either exceptional technical contributions or a move into management.

At FAANG companies, Senior Software Engineer (L5 at Google, E5 at Meta, SDE III at Amazon) typically represents 5-8 years of experience with total compensation in the $250,000-$400,000 range. Base salaries are capped around $180,000-$200,000, with the remainder coming from equity and bonuses.

Staff engineer and above represent the top ~15% of the engineering ladder. These roles require not just technical excellence but also organizational impact—leading cross-team initiatives, defining technical strategy, and mentoring other senior engineers.

Total compensation at this level can be extraordinary. Staff engineers at Google (L6) or Meta (E6) typically earn $400,000-$600,000 total compensation. Principal and Distinguished engineers can exceed $1 million annually at top companies, with the majority coming from equity.

Company type dramatically impacts compensation structure and total earnings potential. Each offers distinct tradeoffs between cash compensation, equity upside, work-life balance, and career growth.

Location remains the largest single factor in software engineer compensation, though remote work is narrowing the gap. The Bay Area commands a 40-50% premium over national median, but cost of living consumes much of this advantage.

Base salary tells only part of the story, especially at senior levels. Total compensation (TC) includes base salary, annual bonus, equity (RSUs or stock options), and signing bonus. At Big Tech, equity can represent 30-50% of total compensation for senior engineers.