Software Developer salary in U.S.
A strong career option in U.S. — with programs that take 3 months to 4 years to complete.
Median pay · May 2025
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
$135,980/ yr
$11,332 / mo · $65.38 / hr
Pay by experience
Entry
$82,451
Median
$135,980
Experienced
$214,677
Demand
Very high
Program length
3 months to 4 years
Projected growth
+15.8%
Annual openings
115,200
Job demand & outlook
+15.8% projected growth through 2034
115,200 average annual openings nationwide for Software Developers.
Source: BLS Employment Projections
Where this career can take you
A clear progression path, with real salary growth at each step
- Software Developer (entry-level)$82,451
- Software Developer (mid-career)$135,980
- Software Developer (experienced)$214,677
Is this career change worth it?
A simple look at what it costs vs what you gain
What it typically costs
- Average training cost$15,432
- Time to complete3 months to 4 years
- Credential earnedProfessional Certification / Bootcamp
What you get back
- Starting salary$82,451
- Median salary$135,980
- Experienced salary$214,677
At an entry wage of $82,451, most Software Developers break even on the $15,432 training investment in about 3 months of work.
How to become a Software Developer in U.S.
A clear path from where you are to where you want to be
Find a Software Developer program in U.S.
Browse certified training programs. Most Software Developer tracks complete in 3 months to 4 years and average $15,432 in tuition.
Earn your Professional Certification / Bootcamp
Complete coursework, finish required clinical or lab hours, and pass the exam required for a Professional Certification / Bootcamp in U.S..
Get hired in U.S.
With roughly 115,200 Software Developer openings each year nationwide, graduates often find employment within 30–90 days in U.S..
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Frequently asked questions
The median salary for a Software Developer in U.S. is $135,980 per year, which is $65.38 per hour. Entry level positions typically start around $82,451 while experienced Software Developers can earn up to $214,677 annually.
Next step
Find Software Developer Classes Near You
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