Pay by Role
Germany · Salary comparison

Backend Developer vs Software Engineer salary

In Germany, a backend developer and a software engineer earn about the same — $132,301 per year.

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

Technology
Backend Developer
$132,301/yr
Monthly
$11,063
Hourly
$64
Range
$84,627$190,468
10-yr outlook
+16%
Technology
Software Engineer
$132,301/yr
Monthly
$11,063
Hourly
$64
Range
$84,627$190,468
10-yr outlook
+17%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileBackend DeveloperSoftware Engineer
Entry (10th)$84,627$84,627
25th$108,464$108,464
Median$132,301$132,301
75th$161,384$161,384
Senior (90th)$190,468$190,468

National Germany figures in EUR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a backend developer or software engineer earn more in Germany?
A backend developer and a software engineer earn roughly the same in Germany, around 116.000 € per year.
What is the salary range for these roles in Germany?
A backend developer typically earns 74.200 €–167.000 €, while a software engineer earns 74.200 €–167.000 € per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in Germany?
On a monthly basis before tax, a backend developer averages about 9.700 € and a software engineer about 9.700 €.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in Germany, a backend developer earns about 74.200 € while a software engineer earns about 74.200 € per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in Germany, a backend developer earns about 167.000 € while a software engineer earns about 167.000 € 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.