Pay by Role
Canada · Salary comparison

Backend Developer vs Software Engineer salary

In Canada, a backend developer and a software engineer earn about the same — $117,189 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is CAD). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Technology
Backend Developer
$117,189/yr
Monthly
$9,742
Hourly
$56
Range
$74,972$168,723
10-yr outlook
+16%
Technology
Software Engineer
$117,189/yr
Monthly
$9,742
Hourly
$56
Range
$74,972$168,723
10-yr outlook
+17%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileBackend DeveloperSoftware Engineer
Entry (10th)$74,972$74,972
25th$96,081$96,081
Median$117,189$117,189
75th$142,956$142,956
Senior (90th)$168,723$168,723

National Canada figures in CAD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a backend developer or software engineer earn more in Canada?
A backend developer and a software engineer earn roughly the same in Canada, around $166,000 per year.
What is the salary range for these roles in Canada?
A backend developer typically earns $106,200–$239,000, while a software engineer earns $106,200–$239,000 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in Canada?
On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about $13,800 and a software engineer about $13,800.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in Canada, a backend developer earns about $106,200 while a software engineer earns about $106,200 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in Canada, a backend developer earns about $239,000 while a software engineer earns about $239,000 per year.
Are backend developer and software engineer similar careers?
Both roles sit in the Technology category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.