Pay by Role
United States · Salary comparison

Software Engineer vs Web Developer salary

In United States, a software engineer earns about 24% more than a web developer $136,000 vs $110,000 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%
Technology
Web Developer
$110,000/yr
Monthly
$9,200
Hourly
$53
Range
$72,400$156,000
10-yr outlook
+16%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileSoftware EngineerWeb Developer
Entry (10th)$87,000$72,400
25th$111,500$91,200
Median$136,000$110,000
75th$165,900$133,000
Senior (90th)$195,800$156,000

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

More Technology comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a software engineer or web developer earn more in United States?
A software engineer earns more, at about $136,000 per year vs $110,000 for a web developer — roughly 24% ($26,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
A software engineer typically earns $87,000–$195,800, while a web developer earns $72,400–$156,000 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
On a monthly basis before tax, a software engineer averages about $11,300 and a web developer about $9,200.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in United States, a software engineer earns about $87,000 while a web developer earns about $72,400 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in United States, a software engineer earns about $195,800 while a web developer earns about $156,000 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.