Pay by Role
China · Salary comparison

Software Engineer vs Web Developer salary

In China, a software engineer earns about 45% more than a web developer $117,700 vs $81,121 per year.

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

Pays more
Technology
Software Engineer
$117,700/yr
Monthly
$9,808
Hourly
$57
Range
$75,325$169,485
10-yr outlook
+17%
Technology
Web Developer
$81,121/yr
Monthly
$6,755
Hourly
$39
Range
$53,378$115,030
10-yr outlook
+16%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileSoftware EngineerWeb Developer
Entry (10th)$75,325$53,378
25th$96,520$67,257
Median$117,700$81,121
75th$143,600$98,083
Senior (90th)$169,485$115,030

National China figures in CNY. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a software engineer or web developer earn more in China?
A software engineer earns more, at about ¥798,000 per year vs ¥550,000 for a web developer — roughly 45% (¥248,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in China?
A software engineer typically earns ¥510,700–¥1,149,100, while a web developer earns ¥361,900–¥779,900 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in China?
On a monthly basis before tax, a software engineer averages about ¥66,500 and a web developer about ¥45,800.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in China, a software engineer earns about ¥510,700 while a web developer earns about ¥361,900 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in China, a software engineer earns about ¥1,149,100 while a web developer earns about ¥779,900 per year.
Are software engineer and web developer 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.