TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
Mid Level Software Engineer Salary in San Francisco
2026 · Mid-career professionals with 3–5 years of experience at median market pay.
$227,919/yr
Typical range: $191,452 – $302,765
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Software Engineer salary by experience level in San Francisco
Software Engineer Salary Progression in San Francisco
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $163,716 | $13,643 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $202,238 | $16,853 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $227,919 | $18,993 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $263,872 | $21,989 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $356,323 | $29,694 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $446,849 | $37,237 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $469,480 | $39,123 | +187% |
Current Salary
$227,919
Mid Level · 3–5 years
Hourly: $110/hr
Next Level Target
$263,872
Senior · 6
+$36Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
56/100
Moderate
+25% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mid level Software Engineer salary in San Francisco, CA?
Mid Level Software Engineers in San Francisco, CA earn approximately $228K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a mid level Software Engineer make per hour in San Francisco, CA?
Based on $228K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $110/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from mid level to senior Software Engineer in San Francisco, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Software Engineer in San Francisco, CA earns $303K–$372K/yr.