Software Engineer Salary in Philadelphia
2026 compensation data for Software Engineer positions in Philadelphia, PA. Ranges from $80,000 (entry-level) to $230,000 (senior). Median: $143,000.
Median (Mid)
$143,000
$68.75/hr
vs National
+4%
US: $138,000
COL Index
110
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$230,000
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) | $80,000 | $97,000 | $117,000 | $46.63/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $117,000 | $143,000 | $168,000 | $68.75/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $163,000 | $194,000 | $230,000 | $93.27/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Philadelphia
A mid-level software engineer earning $143,000 in Philadelphia has the same buying power as $130,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 110).
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 Philadelphia
The median software engineer salary in Philadelphia, PA is $143,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 110 (national average = 100), Philadelphia offers a moderate cost of living with competitive salaries.
Entry-level software engineers in Philadelphia can expect to earn between $80,000 and $117,000 (about $46.63/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $230,000 ($230K annually, or about $110.58/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 Philadelphia.
Frequently Asked Questions: Software Engineer Salary in Philadelphia
What is the average Software Engineer salary in Philadelphia?+
The average Software Engineer salary in Philadelphia is $143,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $97,000 and senior-level pay reaches $194,000.
How much does an entry-level software engineer make in Philadelphia?+
Entry-level software engineers in Philadelphia earn between $80,000 and $117,000, with a median of $97,000 per year (about $46.63/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Software Engineer in Philadelphia?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Software Engineer in Philadelphia earns roughly $46.63/hour at entry-level, $68.75/hour at mid-level, and $93.27/hour at senior-level.
Is the Software Engineer salary in Philadelphia higher than the US average?+
Yes — Software Engineer salaries in Philadelphia are about 4% higher than the US national median of $138,000.
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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