Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

IT Support Specialist vs Software Engineer salary

In United States, a software engineer earns about 104% more than a it support specialist $136,000 vs $66,600 per year.

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

Technology
IT Support Specialist
$66,600/yr
Monthly
$5,600
Hourly
$32
Range
$48,600$88,600
10-yr outlook
+6%
Pays more
Technology
Software Engineer
$136,000/yr
Monthly
$11,300
Hourly
$65
Range
$87,000$195,800
10-yr outlook
+17%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileIT Support SpecialistSoftware Engineer
Entry (10th)$48,600$87,000
25th$57,600$111,500
Median$66,600$136,000
75th$77,600$165,900
Senior (90th)$88,600$195,800

National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a it support specialist or software engineer earn more in United States?
A software engineer earns more, at about $136,000 per year vs $66,600 for a it support specialist — roughly 104% ($69,400) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A it support specialist typically earns $48,600–$88,600, while a software engineer earns $87,000–$195,800 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
On a monthly basis before tax, a it support specialist averages about $5,600 and a software engineer about $11,300.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a it support specialist earns about $48,600 while a software engineer earns about $87,000 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a it support specialist earns about $88,600 while a software engineer earns about $195,800 per year.
Are it support specialist 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.