Software Engineer Salary in Wisconsin
The median software engineer salary in Wisconsin is $114,264 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $124,200.
Software Engineer Salary Overview in Wisconsin (2026)
Wisconsin ranks #30 out of 50 states for software engineer compensation. Software Engineer salaries in Wisconsin are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $114,264 per year, software engineers in Wisconsin earn $9,936 less than the national median of $124,200.
A key advantage of working in Wisconsin is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $114,264 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $124,200 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Wisconsin is significant: software engineers at the 10th percentile earn $68,632, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $182,694 — a $114,062 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Wisconsin for this role is Madison, where the median reaches $124,200.
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 Wisconsin and beyond.
Software Engineer Salary in Wisconsin by Experience
In Wisconsin, an entry-level software engineer earns around $71,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $170,200 per year. The cost of living index in Wisconsin is 92% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Wisconsin
| Percentile | WI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $68,632 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,344 |
| Median (50th) | $114,264 |
| 75th Percentile | $145,544 |
| 90th Percentile | $182,694 |
Software Engineer Salary by City in Wisconsin
The largest employment areas for software engineers in Wisconsin include Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, and Kenosha. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Software Engineer in Wisconsin
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Wisconsin has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Wisconsin
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). Wisconsin'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 $55,936 over your career trajectory.
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