Software Engineer Salary in Los Angeles
2026 compensation data for Software Engineer positions in Los Angeles, CA. Ranges from $90,000 (entry-level) to $259,000 (senior). Median: $161,000.
Median (Mid)
$161,000
$77.4/hr
vs National
+4%
US: $155,000
COL Index
150
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$259,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $90,000 | $109,000 | $132,000 | $52.4/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $132,000 | $161,000 | $190,000 | $77.4/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $184,000 | $218,000 | $259,000 | $104.81/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Los Angeles
A mid-level software engineer earning $161,000 in Los Angeles has the same buying power as $107,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 150).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Software Engineer Salaries in Los Angeles
The median software engineer salary in Los Angeles, CA is $161,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 150 (national average = 100), Los Angeles offers a high cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level software engineers in Los Angeles can expect to earn between $90,000 and $132,000 (about $52.4/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $259,000 ($259K annually, or about $124.52/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Los Angeles.
Frequently Asked Questions: Software Engineer Salary in Los Angeles
What is the average Software Engineer salary in Los Angeles?+
The average Software Engineer salary in Los Angeles is $161,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $109,000 and senior-level pay reaches $218,000.
How much does an entry-level software engineer make in Los Angeles?+
Entry-level software engineers in Los Angeles earn between $90,000 and $132,000, with a median of $109,000 per year (about $52.4/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Software Engineer in Los Angeles?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Software Engineer in Los Angeles earns roughly $52.4/hour at entry-level, $77.4/hour at mid-level, and $104.81/hour at senior-level.
Is the Software Engineer salary in Los Angeles higher than the US average?+
Yes — Software Engineer salaries in Los Angeles are about 4% higher than the US national median of $155,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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