Computer programmers are the masters and controllers of a computer. Computer programmers are skilled in computer coding. Essentially, computer code is the language that computers understand to be able to perform functions for humans. Computer programmers get to write the language and manipulate the computer in various ways to create computer programs. Computer programmers have to have a high level of skill and education in order to get jobs in the workforce, so their salary prospects are pretty good. However, salary in any position always depends on a few different factors.
Average Salary
Although people with computer programming skills can work in a variety of occupations, the individuals who work as computer programmers for companies make an annual salary of $54,815 on average. The median pay for all computer programming related jobs is around $74,300.
Entry-Level Salary
If you are a current student seeking entry-level employment, don’t expect to make the average salary in your first job. Your salary will always depend on your experience level, so even if you’ve just received a great education, most companies don’t want to increase your pay until they know you don’t just have education but you also know how to be a professional. Entry-level computer programmers get paid between $33,000 and $71,000. The median for entry-level computer programmers is around $50,000. If you’re about to get a job and a company asks you how much you think you should be paid, you should aim for the median. Don’t sell yourself short, but don’t expect to get the same salary that you would as a more experienced employee.
Salary According to Industry and Job Position
Computer programmers can end up working in a variety of occupations in information and technology related services. Many computer programmers become software engineers, and software engineers tend to make more money than those whose job title is strictly “computer programmer.”
Salary According to Experience
Your pay scale is likely to increase with the number of years of experience you have. Many computer programmers move up the ranks and can end up making over $150,000. The median salary for late-career computer programmers is around $75,000.
Salary According to Location
Pay tends to be higher in metropolitan areas and on both coasts in the United States. The pay for computer programmers tends to be highest in California, Texas, New York, Boston, and Washington State.
Salary According to Education
Most computer programmers must have at least a bachelor’s degree. Computer programming requires the knowledge and skill set with coding languages like C++, Java, Python, etc. In order to learn these skills, you really have to go to school. Some companies will accept people with associate’s degrees, but your pay is likely going to be less than those with bachelor’s degrees.
