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Software Developer Salary in USA: Earnings & Salary Growth
Published
05th Sep, 2023
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Nowadays, most human activities have been digitalized. We rely on software applications for financial transactions, industrial process control, stock handling, and almost everything. Due to the widespread use of software applications in most fields, demand for software developers has also increased. Every sector demands work to be digitalized, and to put everything in the digital format, a software developer is imperative. A country like the USA, with multiple technology hotspots, provides numerous opportunities for software developers with well-paid jobs. In this blog, we are going to have a look at the average software developer salary and discuss the factors that affect their salary in 2023.
Who is a Software Developer?
A software developer is an engineer who builds software applications with defined functionalities performing digital operations upon stimulation through external commands. He designs the layout, writes codes, tests them, and maintains the applications. Companies from different industries hire software developers who can understand their requirements and build efficient software.
Average Software Developer Salary in the USA
The average software developer salary in the USA is $95,325 per year, which includes an average additional cash compensation of $6,887. The possible minimum salary for a software developer in USA working for a low-level company is about $62,000. The average salary in USA for software developers in one industry may go up to $146,000.
Software Developer Salary Based on Experience Level
In any profession, an employee's salary rises with experience as they continue to improve their skills and perform better. A Software Developer Certification always helps in a salary hike.
Fresher/Entry-Level
The software developer salary in USA for freshers starts from $62,000 per year. However, it varies depending on the type of companies, cities, and states you are working in. For instance, an entry-level software developer at Netflix earns up to $212,000 a year.
An entry-level software developer assists the software development team with coding, designing, and debugging. Based on his performance, senior developers or managers approve of his involvement in higher aspects of team functioning. Initially, he must learn the codebase and mend his coding skills to meet their requirements. We can say that the average salary for software developers in USA as entry-level professionals depends on the technical skills of the candidates as well.
Experienced/Senior-Level
On average, a software developer salary in the USA for senior levels is $135,000 yearly. It depends on the same factors that influence the salary of entry-level roles. The salary also depends on his technical and leadership skills. A senior software developer plays a managerial position in addition to his technical responsibilities. An efficient senior developer must have abilities to act fast, make the right decisions, and guide his team to complete work before the deadline and ensure continuous delivery of products. Full stack Development certification in the USA can help you to take a senior-level post in the states.
Software Developer Top Skills & Proficiencies
Analysis
Analytical skills are crucial for software development as it involves finding a solution to a real problem. They are among the deciding factors for software developer salaries in the USA. A professional must have the ability to
- Observe and interpret data for possible patterns
- Research the interpretations
- Hypothesize multiple solutions
- Evaluate and compare solutions to determine the most feasible one.
General Programming Skills
Programming involves working with several elements of computing and the tools every programmer must know. These have a significant influence on software developers US salaries, and they include
- Data structures and algorithms
- Database and SQL
- Object-oriented programming (OOP) languages
- Integrated development environments (IDEs)
- Cloud computing
- Web development
- Containers
- Text editors
- Git version control
Software Design
Software developers must understand user requirements before jumping into writing codes. Software design involves problem definition, data analysis, and identification of plausible architecture and components. Software design demands a developer to be creative and comprehensive about finding solutions.
Software Debugging
Software debugging involves removing malware that disrupts the functions performed by the applications. Bugs are common in newly developed software due to minor errors in coding. Debugging is one of the roles of a software developer. The skills like In-depth knowledge of programming language, a clear understanding of process flow in the software, and good logical skills help to hone the software debugging.
Software Documentation
It is the practice of describing the aspects of software while developing. A software developer must possess good documentation skills to explain the particulars like the working of the software, the codes and algorithms of how the software works, the maintenance and upgradation of the software, and marketing skills. It is one of the highly valued skills that affect the salary of software developers in the USA.
Software Testing
Software testing determines and fixes the issues of the quality of a software application. It involves planning requirements, creating and executing test cases, reporting errors, setting up a test environment, and more. The skills required for the testing stage are -
- Test management tools such as TestRail, TestPad, QADeputy, and TestLink.
- High proficiency in programming languages
- Deep understanding of software development life cycle
- Project management skills
Problem-Solving
Software development involves finding a solution in software applications to a real-world problem. For example, a fire alarm that detects fire sends signals and executes sirens that warn people in the place of an incident saving lives. However, the problems do not occur in the same manner everywhere and need different solutions that require innovative ideas. Hence, a software developer must possess outstanding problem-solving skills. Software developers in USA salaries for senior positions depend highly on problem-solving skills
Teamwork
Since software development involves numerous steps and aspects, it needs a team of developers and related experts. A software developer must work with a team in coordination. The success of teamwork highly depends on how the team members understand their requirements and act accordingly.
Software Development Fundamentals
It is crucial for the prospects of software developer jobs in the US as the candidates must know the overall aspects and workflow of a software development project. In addition, he must also have an in-depth understanding of coding, programming languages, debugging, algorithm design, data structures, object-oriented programming, and web development.
Software Development Process
Knowledge of the software development process helps a developer stay connected with all aspects of a project. It also provides opportunities to improvise his role by making decisions or communicating unique ideas to the development team. It helps build a reputation in the company and reflects in appraisal and hikes in the salary.
Software Requirements
These are the features expected by the software users. Software developers must identify these specifications to realize their plan of action, including design, architecture, and these functionalities. These technical aspects help identify codes, algorithms, and languages implemented.
Top Software Developer companies and their Salaries in USA
Software developer average salary, USA and the starting salary for software developers in USA in various companies is listed below:
| Company | Average salary per year |
|---|---|
$219,039 | |
$210,867 | |
Netflix | $195,866 |
$198,340 | |
Apple | $196,370 |
Uber | $187,075 |
Amazon | $153,164 |
stripe | $180,438 |
Microsoft | $137,000 |
Top 15 Best Paying Cities for Software Developers in USA
Average software developer salary USA varies among cities due to factors such as the cost of living and the density of software companies. The top 15 best-paying companies and respective average developer salary USA are in the following table.
| City | Average salary per year | Number of software developer jobs |
|---|---|---|
Huntsville, AL | $108,232 | 5,920 |
Columbus, OH | $108,500 | 3,340 |
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | $131,167 | 65,760 |
Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, FL | $110,280 | 4,400 |
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC | $107,046 | 12,800 |
Colorado Springs, CO | $111,670 | 5,780 |
Dayton, OH | $99,338 | 4,240 |
St. Louis, MO-IL | $101,668 | 11,840 |
Greensboro-High Point, NC | $99,612 | 1580 |
San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | $142,101 | 59,550 |
San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | $104,688 | 46,650 |
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | $111,113 | 46,130 |
Durham-Chapel Hill, NC | $105,018 | 6800 |
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | $106,334 | 38,110 |
Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN | $98,112 | 8620 |
Software Developer Salary Based on Education Background in USA
The salary of a software developer in the USA at the entry level depends highly on the educational background and the technical skills required to support the development team.
| Educational Qualification | Average salary per year at entry-level |
|---|---|
B.Sc. Bachelors of science are the least paid among others qualified for software developer roles. Because they have basic knowledge of coding and need longer periods of training. | $86,000 |
BE/BTech Computer engineering graduates have better exposure to software development through projects and internships. In addition, their curriculum includes application-based activities, making them good at using coding for practical applications. | $99,500 |
MTech Master of Technology in computing introduces the student to more complex languages and various tools used in software development. In addition, they conduct projects on complex applications. Hence, they earn more than a bachelor. | $110,500 |
M.Sc. A Master of Science in computing is an extension of a bachelor's. However, the course does not focus on applications of coding in complex web applications. Hence, they earn less than engineering graduates. | $81,685 |
MS This commonly refers to those who have graduated from foreign countries, including USA., who undergo rigorous curriculum and training. Hence, they have better capabilities, including troubleshooting. Hence, they are paid better than those with other degrees | $147,000 |
PG Post-graduation degrees include short-term courses, such as diplomas. These focus on particular specializations in computing, and the graduates have an in-depth understanding of the tools and techniques and their applications. | $147,000 |
Roles and Responsibilities of a Software Developer In the USA
There are permanent roles to the job, but all of them are done if done with utmost responsibility and dedication. A software developer course called the Full Stack Java course adapts with all the takes to be a software developer.
1. Software Developer Roles
A software developer has multiple roles, explained in detail below:
- Web or Application Developer
A web or application developer creates a website or software application that performs all the functions that meet the client's requirements. The average salary for a software developer in USA in this role is increasing as more organizations are willing to make their presence online through websites and applications.
- UI and UX Designer
UI and UX designers create websites to enhance user experience. They play a role in improving brand value.
- Software Tester
Software testers implement testing protocols to identify glitches in their products' Usability, performance, functions, and scalability. The average salary for a software developer in the USA in this role is pretty attractive as they play a vital role in quality assurance.
- System Administrator and DevOps Engineer
A system administrator looks after the configuration, functioning, and maintenance of informatics systems and servers during the designing stages of software development. On the other hand, DevOps engineers focus on every aspect concerning the software life cycle. The software developer's average salary in USA in these roles is one of the highest.
- Sales Engineers
The sales engineer acts as an abridge between the development team and the sales department dealing with the financial aspects of software development's technical elements.
- Product and Management Roles
The responsibility of product management roles is to realize the objectives against the backdrop of customers' requirements and oversee software development.
2. Software Developer Responsibilities
The following are the responsibilities of a software developer:
- Design algorithms and flowcharts
- Produce efficient codes based on specifications
- Define and integrate the components of the software
- Verify and implement programs and systems
- Identify bugs and remove them
- Upgrade existing software
- Documentation for reference and report.
Software Developer Salary Comparison by Gender in the USA
According to a demographic study, about 21% of software developers in the US are women. The average salary of women software developers in the US is $86,511, while that of men is $92,520.
Software Developer Bonus and Incentive Rates in the USA
Software developers receive an annual bonus of about $5000. On the other hand, they receive incentives not in the form of cash but stock units. The value of stocks depends on your performance and is convertible to cash only in the future, 1 – 5 years from the date of stock transfer.
How to Increase Your Salary as a Software Developer in the USA?
Here are a few tips that help increase salary in the US:
1. Pursue a strategic specialization.
A basic rule is to hone a strategic specialization in an area where there are scarce developers. You can gain the knowledge and credibility to follow your dreams by specializing in graduate-level schooling. It provides particular advantages like professional development, increased pay, and industry recognition. The likelihood of future success in the field you graduate from is increased by taking specialization classes. For example, suppose you choose to take specialization courses. In that case, you will learn about two different disciplines and have the opportunity to pursue two other career pathways.
2. Take up challenging projects.
Taking up challenging projects adds up to your reliability and credibility; hence the chances of a better salary are greater. One of the finest ways to advance in your profession is to accept challenging opportunities. In addition to being more interested in their work, professionals who push themselves keep things exciting and novel. Additionally, it enables them to rediscover fascinating projects, reconnect with their talents, and pick up new ones.
3. Upgrade technical and interpersonal skills.
Upgradation is always required. With the changing news and growing technology taking up certification courses to upgrade our skills increases the chances of a better salary. Upgrading your abilities will keep you relevant in the business and open the door to new career possibilities that you may not have been able to consider in the past in the world of rapid technological advancements and a dynamic employment market. Moreover, To establish and sustain successful workplace connections, interpersonal skills are essential. They call for a high level of emotional intelligence, which helps you recognize how your words and deeds affect others at work.
4. Aim at leading a team.
Aiming more significantly and higher always challenges your skill set. So, in order to upscale your skill set, always aim to lead the team. They are crucial traits to possess because a competent leader can inspire their team to work together towards a common objective by bringing out the best qualities in each person. A skilled leader keeps the group engaged and on task to prevent delays.
Conclusion
The software industry is one of the leading sources of wealth generation and has never-ending opportunities to create innovative products and solutions. As the arena grows, job opportunities increase and the pay scale also improves with time. USA is home to many of the world's largest technology companies, as well as a thriving startup ecosystem, which provides ample opportunities for software developers to work on innovative and challenging projects. Additionally, the US has a well-established education system that provides excellent training and research facilities in computer science and software engineering, making it a popular destination for aspiring software developers from around the world. So, the scope for software developers in the USA is extremely promising, with a wide range of opportunities for career growth and advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is a Software Developer internship a good way to get a job in the US?
An internship increases the chances of a better job in the USA. It also adds up to your professional experience.
2. What is a good Software Developer's salary in the US?
A package of $95,325 is considered a good salary package for a software developer. It may rise based on the company's budget.
3. Who gets paid more as a Software Developer or Software Engineer in the US?
Software engineers and developers often share job responsibilities. However, a software developer needs extensive technical skills and gets paid more than a software engineer.
4. Is Software Developer a high-paying job in America?
A software developer is highly paid in the USA as software development has a large scope, and critical software development skills are scarce.
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