Software Engineer Salary in Rhode Island
The median software engineer salary in Rhode Island is $131,652 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median of $124,200.
Software Engineer Salary Overview in Rhode Island (2026)
Rhode Island ranks #14 out of 50 states for software engineer compensation. Rhode Island falls in the middle of the pack for software engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $131,652 per year, software engineers in Rhode Island earn $7,452 more than the national median of $124,200.
Rhode Island's cost of living is near the national average at 105%, meaning software engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Rhode Island is significant: software engineers at the 10th percentile earn $79,076, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $210,495 — a $131,419 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Rhode Island for this role is Providence, where the median reaches $135,378.
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Rhode Island and beyond.
Software Engineer Salary in Rhode Island by Experience
In Rhode Island, an entry-level software engineer earns around $82,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $196,100 per year. The cost of living index in Rhode Island is 105% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Rhode Island
| Percentile | RI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,076 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,092 |
| Median (50th) | $131,652 |
| 75th Percentile | $167,692 |
| 90th Percentile | $210,495 |
Software Engineer Salary by City in Rhode Island
The largest employment areas for software engineers in Rhode Island include Providence, Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Software Engineer in Rhode Island
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Rhode Island has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Rhode Island
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). Rhode Island's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Software Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $64,448 over your career trajectory.
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