Software Engineer Salary in Seattle
2026 compensation data for Software Engineer positions in Seattle. Ranges from $95,000 (entry-level) to $275,000 (senior).
Median (Mid)
$171,000
vs National
+4%
COL Index
155
Senior Max
$275,000
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Minimum | Median | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $95,000 | $116,000 | $140,000 |
| Mid-Level | $140,000 | $171,000 | $201,000 |
| Senior | $195,000 | $232,000 | $275,000 |
About Software Engineer Salaries in Seattle
The median software engineer salary in Seattle is $171,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 155 (national average = 100), Seattle offers a higher cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level software engineers in Seattle can expect to earn between $95,000 and $140,000, while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $275,000.
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.
Software Engineer Salaries in Other Cities
San Francisco
$189,000
Mid-level median
New York
$179,000
Mid-level median
Los Angeles
$161,000
Mid-level median
Chicago
$147,000
Mid-level median
Austin
$143,000
Mid-level median
Denver
$147,000
Mid-level median
Remote (US)
$133,000
Mid-level median
Boston
$165,000
Mid-level median
Washington D.C.
$168,000
Mid-level median
Atlanta
$140,000
Mid-level median
Dallas
$140,000
Mid-level median
Miami
$151,000
Mid-level median
Phoenix
$133,000
Mid-level median
Minneapolis
$143,000
Mid-level median
Raleigh
$137,000
Mid-level median
Other Roles in Seattle
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