Coding is an in-demand skill that’s essential for a variety of key software and technology jobs, but the salary can vary depending on your job title, industry and even where you live. If you’re interested in this type of work, it’s important to learn more about average compensation ranges and which factors may influence your coding salary.
Keep reading for more details.
How Much Coders Make by Job Title
Those who code typically have the title of programmer or software developer but may be called “coders,” referring to their primary role. Coding is a skill, and “coder” is a relatively unofficial term, but it’s the core of many technology roles. Some of the most popular coding jobs include the following:
- Software developer — A person in this role uses knowledge of programming languages to create specific software programs. A more specialized role is security software developer, which blends the responsibilities of a traditional software developer role with cybersecurity. Software developers have a salary range of $96,790 to $151,480 with a median salary of $127,260.
- Web developer — These professionals create and sustain websites and web applications and use web-facing technology to create certain types of software. This position has a salary range of $55,990 to $108,550 with a median salary of $78,850.
- Systems engineer — A systems engineer essentially solves problems related to networks or machines by designing, testing and fixing systems. The average base salary for this position is $110,009.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) engineer — This type of engineer builds AI systems and helps design and deploy different types of related technologies. The average salary is $117,350.
- Machine learning (ML) engineer —An ML engineer uses data to design, build and manage machine software applications. The average salary is around $165,685.
- App developer —An application developer creates, deploys and updates applications (or programs) for certain types of systems and devices, such as cell phones and webpages. The average app developer salary is around $91,532.
- Video game developer —This type of developer uses software to code games for computers, cell phones and consoles. The average salary is $116,189.
- IT security specialist — An IT security specialist helps protect a business or organization’s computer systems, data and networks. The average salary for this type of position is $112,855.
How Much Coders Make by Industry
Businesses and organizations in every type of field and industry need coders. There are many variables, however, that will affect a coder’s salary. Technology and finance sectors often have higher-paying coding jobs, but that’s not to say you couldn’t secure a senior-level, six-figure salary as a coder for a retailer or healthcare facility.
In general, industries with the highest coding salaries include technology, finance, healthcare, e-commerce, entertainment and consulting, but it’s important to note that many external factors beyond the type of industry in which you work will affect your coding salary.
How Much Coders Make by State
Where you work can make a big difference on your income. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest-paying states for computer programmers include:
- Washington ($158,520)
- California ($124,660)
- New Jersey ($122,830)
- Tennessee ($118,190)
- New York ($116,230)
According to Indeed, coders will have the most earning potential in New York, Illinois, Kansas, New Mexico and Virginia.
How Much Coders Make by Education Level
The amount of education under your belt will also affect your compensation; not surprisingly, a master’s degree can help increase your earning potential.
If you don’t have a degree, you can still obtain a job as an entry-level programmer and expect to make around $49,000. A coder with a relevant bachelor’s degree can expect to start out earning around $81,000. And if you’ve gone above and beyond to secure a master’s degree, you can probably start in the field making around $96,000.
Bootcamps are also a viable option as they can provide additional training and career preparation.
How Much Coders Make by Experience Level
Similar to the trajectory of most careers, the more experience you have in coding and programming, the more money you’ll be able to earn. Entry-level and junior coders will average around $62,000 per year with mid-level coders earning around $70,000.
Senior and expert programmers can earn anywhere from $78,000 to $140,000, depending on your experience.
FAQs
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