Software Developer Salary in San Francisco, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Technology · COL Index: 179.6
$174,910
Median Salary
$187,840
Mean Salary
$97,389
COL-Adjusted
76,900
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $128,140 | $71,347 |
| 25th Percentile | $160,060 | $89,120 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $174,910 | $97,389 |
| 75th Percentile | $213,420 | $118,831 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $263,483 | $146,705 |
What Drives the Range
The $135,343 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Software Developer positions in San Francisco, CA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
San Francisco, CA's cost-of-living index of 179.6 means that a $174,910 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $97,389 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.