Network Engineer vs Software Engineer salary
In United States, a software engineer earns about 20% more than a network engineer — $136,000 vs $113,000 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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
| Percentile | Network Engineer | Software Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $76,400 | $87,000 |
| 25th | $94,700 | $111,500 |
| Median | $113,000 | $136,000 |
| 75th | $135,400 | $165,900 |
| Senior (90th) | $157,700 | $195,800 |
National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a network engineer or software engineer earn more in United States?
- A software engineer earns more, at about $136,000 per year vs $113,000 for a network engineer — roughly 20% ($23,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
- A network engineer typically earns $76,400–$157,700, 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 network engineer averages about $9,400 and a software engineer about $11,300.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in United States, a network engineer earns about $76,400 while a software engineer earns about $87,000 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in United States, a network engineer earns about $157,700 while a software engineer earns about $195,800 per year.
- Are network engineer 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.