Software Engineer Salary in Tucson, Arizona
The median software engineer salary in Tucson, AZ is $117,990 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 4% below the Arizona state average.
Software Engineer Pay in Tucson: What to Expect (2026)
Tucson offers a median software engineer salary of $117,990, which is $4,968 below the Arizona state average of $122,958. Compared to the national median of $124,200, Tucson pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Tucson's cost of living is 93% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for software engineers in Tucson spans from $70,870 at the 10th percentile to $188,651 at the 90th percentile — a $117,781 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $74,100, while senior software engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $175,750. As a major metro area with a population of 542,629, Tucson typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Software Engineer Salary in Tucson by Experience
In Tucson, an entry-level software engineer earns around $74,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $175,750 per year. The local cost of living index is 93% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tucson, AZ
| Percentile | Tucson |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $70,870 |
| 25th Percentile | $93,290 |
| Median (50th) | $117,990 |
| 75th Percentile | $150,290 |
| 90th Percentile | $188,651 |
Software Engineer Salary in Other Arizona Cities
How to Become a Software Engineer in Tucson
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Tucson and the surrounding Arizona area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Tucson may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Software Engineer Jobs in Tucson
Browse open software engineer positions in Tucson, AZ: