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Software Developer Salary in California

How much does a Software Developer make in California?

Last updated: 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

$170,910
Median Annual Salary
$185,750
Mean Salary
$170,910
Median Salary
$82.17
Hourly Rate
292,630 people work as Software Developer in California

About This Job: Software Developer

Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.

Source: O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor

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What does this salary really buy? See Software Developer salary in California adjusted for cost of living →

Software Developer Salary by State

Compare Software Developer pay across states — sorted by highest median salary.

Washington $166,910 New York $161,260 Massachusetts $150,520 Maryland $137,890 Oregon $135,260 Delaware $135,160 Colorado $134,540 Virginia $134,470 New Hampshire $132,420 New Jersey $132,400

View all 50 states →

Related Careers in California

Explore similar occupations and their salaries in California.

Computer User Support SpecialistsSimilar $76,870 Computer Network Support SpecialistsSimilar $79,520 Operations Research AnalystsSimilar $96,920 Network and Computer Systems AdministratorsSimilar $106,620 Database AdministratorsSimilar $111,090 Computer ProgrammersSimilar $116,220 Web DeveloperSimilar $117,380 ActuariesSimilar $124,240 Software QA EngineerSimilar $127,010 StatisticiansSimilar $127,550

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Software Developer make in California?
The median annual salary for a Software Developer in California is $170,910 as of 2024. The average (mean) salary is $185,750.
What is the starting salary for a Software Developer in California?
Entry-level Software Developer positions in California typically start around $103,950 (10th percentile). With some experience, salaries rise to $134,820 (25th percentile).
How many people work as Software Developer in California?
According to 2024 BLS data, approximately 292,630 people are employed as Software Developer in California.
What is the hourly rate for a Software Developer in California?
Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, the median hourly rate for a Software Developer in California is approximately $82.17 per hour.

Data Source & Methodology

Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2024 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.

Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.

Our Methodology · Data Sources · Source: BLS OEWS