Software Engineer Salary in Los Angeles, California
The median software engineer salary in Los Angeles, CA is $199,962 per year, which is 61.0% above the national median and 5.2% above the California state average.
Software Engineer Pay in Los Angeles: What to Expect (2026)
Los Angeles offers a median software engineer salary of $199,962, which is $9,936 above the California state average of $190,026. Compared to the national median of $124,200, Los Angeles pays above average for this role.
However, Los Angeles's cost of living index is 146%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $199,962 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $136,960. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Los Angeles should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for software engineers in Los Angeles spans from $120,106 at the 10th percentile to $319,714 at the 90th percentile — a $199,608 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $125,580, while senior software engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $297,850. As a major metro area with a population of 3,898,747, Los Angeles typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Software Engineer Salary in Los Angeles by Experience
In Los Angeles, an entry-level software engineer earns around $125,580, while experienced professionals earn up to $297,850 per year. The local cost of living index is 146% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Los Angeles, CA
| Percentile | Los Angeles |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $120,106 |
| 25th Percentile | $158,102 |
| Median (50th) | $199,962 |
| 75th Percentile | $254,702 |
| 90th Percentile | $319,714 |
Software Engineer Salary in Other California Cities
How to Become a Software Engineer in Los Angeles
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Los Angeles and the surrounding California 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 Los Angeles may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Software Engineer Jobs in Los Angeles
Browse open software engineer positions in Los Angeles, CA: