Technology San Francisco, CA Pop. 873,965

Game Developer Salary in San Francisco, California

The median game developer salary in San Francisco, CA is $167,450 per year, which is 97.0% above the national median and 28.8% above the California state average.

City Median
$167,450
vs State Avg
+$37,400
vs National
+$82,450
Cost of Living
182%

Game Developer Salary in San Francisco by Experience

In San Francisco, an entry-level game developer earns around $98,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $291,560 per year. The local cost of living index is 182% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$98,500
+$48,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$171,390
+$84,390 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$291,560
+$143,560 vs national

Salary Percentiles in San Francisco, CA

Percentile San Francisco
10th Percentile $94,560
25th Percentile $128,050
Median (50th) $167,450
75th Percentile $236,400
90th Percentile $305,350

Game Developer Salary in Other California Cities

How to Become a Game Developer in San Francisco

Education

Most game developer positions require a bachelor's degree. San Francisco and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

C++Unity/Unreal3D MathGame PhysicsGPU ProgrammingVersion Control

Job Outlook

Nationally, game developer employment is projected to grow 10% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in San Francisco may vary based on local industry and population growth.