Cloud Architect vs Software Engineer salary
In New Zealand, a cloud architect earns about 54% more than a software engineer — $180,789 vs $117,455 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is NZD). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Technology
Cloud Architect$180,789/yr
- Monthly
- $15,085
- Hourly
- $87
- Range
- $112,446–$264,332
- 10-yr outlook
- +24%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Cloud Architect | Software Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $112,446 | $75,194 |
| 25th | $146,646 | $96,325 |
| Median | $180,789 | $117,455 |
| 75th | $222,532 | $143,307 |
| Senior (90th) | $264,332 | $169,159 |
National New Zealand figures in NZD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a cloud architect or software engineer earn more in New Zealand?
- A cloud architect earns more, at about $314,000 per year vs $204,000 for a software engineer — roughly 54% ($110,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
- A cloud architect typically earns $195,300–$459,100, while a software engineer earns $130,600–$293,800 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in New Zealand?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a cloud architect averages about $26,200 and a software engineer about $17,000.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a cloud architect earns about $195,300 while a software engineer earns about $130,600 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a cloud architect earns about $459,100 while a software engineer earns about $293,800 per year.
- Are cloud architect 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.