how much do software engineers make

Software engineers' salaries vary widely depending on the country, experience level, and location. In the United States, the average salary for software engineers in 2025 ranges typically from about $110,000 to $155,000 per year, with some sources citing up to around $139,000 or $123,000 as the average. Entry-level or junior software engineers may earn around $69,000 to $70,000 per year, while senior software engineers can earn from $104,000 to nearly $193,000 or more depending on the position. In high-cost tech hubs like California, particularly Silicon Valley, salaries can be significantly higher, with averages around $146,770 or even more. Salaries at top tech companies can go even higher, with figures like $200,000 to $260,000+ for senior roles. Bonuses and stock options are common parts of the total compensation package as well. In other countries, such as Germany, average software engineer salaries in 2025 tend to be lower, roughly €59,000 to €60,000 annually, with typical ranges between €45,000 and €75,000. In Berlin, for instance, the median salary is around €84,000. Overall, software engineers' salaries range from about $70,000 for junior roles to over $250,000 at senior or principal levels in major tech companies in the US, while in Europe the salaries are generally lower but still competitive within local markets.