Software Developers Salary in California (2025)
✓ Sourced directly from BLS OES · Checked for accuracy at every rebuild · First published: 2026-08-25 · Last updated: 2026-10-25
BLS OES May 2025 · SOC 15-1252As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links below are affiliate links.
Overview
The median wage for software developers in California is $174,410 per year (gross, before tax) — 28.3% above the US national median of $135,980 for this occupation. Figures are from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Around 284,000 people work in this occupation in California. Negotiating an offer in California? A good salary negotiation guide helps you make the case for the upper percentiles.
California Salary Percentiles
| Percentile | Annual (gross) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $105,060 | Entry level / lowest decile |
| 25th | $136,990 | Early career |
| 50th (median) | $174,410 | Typical pay |
| 75th | $216,670 | Experienced |
| 90th | $272,670 | Senior / highest decile |
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Start $1 Trial →How California Compares
| State | Median salary | vs national |
|---|---|---|
| California | $174,410 | +28.3% |
| Washington | $166,540 | +22.5% |
| New York | $166,180 | +22.2% |
| Massachusetts | $165,210 | +21.5% |
| Oregon | $142,720 | +5.0% |
| New Hampshire | $139,720 | +2.8% |
| Maryland | $138,680 | +2.0% |
| Colorado | $138,390 | +1.8% |
| District of Columbia | $136,880 | +0.7% |
| Virginia | $136,460 | +0.4% |
All states for software developers →
Recommended Gear & Prep
Interviewing in California? Interview prep books cover the common question sets.
All salaries in California · UK data for this occupation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a software developers in California?
The median salary in California is $174,410 per year (gross, before tax), based on BLS OES May 2025 data. The mean is $186,770.
How does California pay compare to the US national average?
California is 28.3% above the US national median of $135,980 for this occupation.
Data: BLS OES, May 2025 · Page built 2026-10-25