Data Engineer vs Software Engineer salary
In Canada, a data engineer earns about 46% more than a software engineer — $170,841 vs $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
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Technology
Data Engineer$170,841/yr
- Monthly
- $14,260
- Hourly
- $82
- Range
- $109,352–$246,025
- 10-yr outlook
- +30%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Data Engineer | Software Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $109,352 | $74,972 |
| 25th | $140,062 | $96,081 |
| Median | $170,841 | $117,189 |
| 75th | $208,398 | $142,956 |
| Senior (90th) | $246,025 | $168,723 |
National Canada figures in CAD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a data engineer or software engineer earn more in Canada?
- A data engineer earns more, at about $242,000 per year vs $166,000 for a software engineer — roughly 46% ($76,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in Canada?
- A data engineer typically earns $154,900–$348,500, 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 data engineer averages about $20,200 and a software engineer about $13,800.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in Canada, a data engineer earns about $154,900 while a software engineer earns about $106,200 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in Canada, a data engineer earns about $348,500 while a software engineer earns about $239,000 per year.
- Are data engineer 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.