Software Engineer vs Web Developer salary
In South Africa, a software engineer earns about 49% more than a web developer — $58,094 vs $39,076 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is ZAR). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Technology
Software Engineer$58,094/yr
- Monthly
- $4,843
- Hourly
- $28
- Range
- $37,180–$83,656
- 10-yr outlook
- +17%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Software Engineer | Web Developer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $37,180 | $25,714 |
| 25th | $47,637 | $32,392 |
| Median | $58,094 | $39,076 |
| 75th | $70,875 | $47,246 |
| Senior (90th) | $83,656 | $55,410 |
National South Africa figures in ZAR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a software engineer or web developer earn more in South Africa?
- A software engineer earns more, at about R 950 000 per year vs R 639 000 for a web developer — roughly 49% (R 311 000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in South Africa?
- A software engineer typically earns R 608 000–R 1 368 000, while a web developer earns R 420 500–R 906 100 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in South Africa?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a software engineer averages about R 79 200 and a web developer about R 53 300.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in South Africa, a software engineer earns about R 608 000 while a web developer earns about R 420 500 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in South Africa, a software engineer earns about R 1 368 000 while a web developer earns about R 906 100 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.