Software Engineer Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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Salary

How much does a Software Engineer make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Software Engineer is $149,513 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, a Software Engineer enjoys a competitive salary that reflects their skills and experience. The average yearly salary for this role is around $149,513. Entry-level positions start at about $68,000, while more experienced engineers can earn significantly more.


For instance, those in the mid-range of their careers make approximately $114,227 to $145,045. As engineers gain experience and take on more significant responsibilities, their earnings can reach as high as $237,500. This range shows how growing in this field can lead to substantial financial rewards.


Overall, pursuing a career as a Software Engineer in San Diego not only offers a fulfilling job but also a lucrative pay scale. Such financial benefits make this profession an attractive option for job seekers in the tech industry.

View Software Engineer Jobs in San Diego, CA

What are the highest paying cities for Software Engineer near San Diego, CA?

Poway, CA offers the highest average salary for Software Engineers near San Diego, at about $122,883. La Jolla follows closely with an average salary of $119,183, while Chula Vista provides a competitive average of $113,565. These cities present excellent opportunities for Software Engineers looking to boost their earnings.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Software Engineer jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Poway, CA with the highest at $122,883 and Chula Vista, CA with the lowest at $113,565.
  1. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $122,883
    Poway offers a vibrant tech scene with opportunities for software professionals. Companies in the area focus on innovation and often look for talent to help build cutting-edge solutions.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Poway, CA


  2. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $119,183
    La Jolla is home to several prestigious research institutions and biotech firms. Working here means you can contribute to significant advancements in technology while enjoying beautiful coastal views.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $113,565
    Chula Vista has a growing tech community and provides various job options for software developers. The city's focus on smart technology and infrastructure projects keeps the work dynamic and engaging.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Chula Vista, CA

What are the best paying companies for Software Engineer in San Diego, CA?

CoStar Group leads the pack for Software Engineer salaries in San Diego, offering an average of $229,667. Following closely behind are PlayStation and Nautilus Bio, with average salaries of $218,500 and $217,500, respectively. Other top-paying companies include Snap Inc., Apple, and LPL Financial, all providing competitive compensation for talented engineers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Software Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting CoStar Group with the highest at $229,667 and ServiceNow with the lowest at $173,141.
  1. CoStar Group
    Average Salary: $229,667
    CoStar Group leads in providing commercial real estate information. Their Software Engineers work in a dynamic environment, focusing on data analytics and software development. The company operates several offices in downtown San Diego.


  2. PlayStation
    Average Salary: $218,500
    PlayStation is a renowned brand in the gaming industry. Software Engineers here develop innovative gaming experiences. They have a well-established presence in San Diego, allowing for collaboration with top talent.


  3. Nautilus Bio
    Average Salary: $217,500
    Nautilus Bio specializes in advanced biotechnology solutions. Software Engineers at Nautilus Bio contribute to scientific research and development, working from their San Diego facility, which is equipped with cutting-edge technology.


  4. Snap Inc.
    Average Salary: $208,000
    Snap Inc. is famous for its multimedia messaging app. Software Engineers develop exciting features and enhance user engagement. They are based in a creative office space located in the heart of San Diego.


  5. Apple
    Average Salary: $190,851
    Apple is a leading global technology company. Software Engineers at Apple work on innovative software products and are part of a collaborative team in San Diego, contributing to projects that impact users worldwide.


  6. LPL Financial
    Average Salary: $182,040
    LPL Financial is a prominent financial services firm. Software Engineers here create robust systems for managing financial data. Their San Diego office offers a bustling environment with numerous opportunities for growth.


  7. Intuit
    Average Salary: $178,281
    Intuit is well-known for its financial software solutions. Software Engineers at Intuit focus on making financial management easier for users. Their San Diego office fosters innovation and teamwork.


  8. Goddard Technologies
    Average Salary: $174,000
    Goddard Technologies is a leader in software solutions for various industries. Software Engineers develop high-quality products, and the company operates a vibrant office in San Diego, promoting a culture of creativity.


  9. Moore & Associates
    Average Salary: $173,333
    Moore & Associates offer technology consulting services. Software Engineers work on diverse projects that enhance business processes. Their San Diego location emphasizes collaboration and professional development.


  10. ServiceNow
    Average Salary: $173,141
    ServiceNow specializes in digital workflows for businesses. Software Engineers here create impactful solutions that improve productivity. The San Diego office is a hub for innovation, attracting top talent from the tech industry.

There are 7,809 Software Engineer job openings nationwide!

How's the job market for a Software Engineer in the US?

Learn what a Software Engineer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Software Engineer today.
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Software Engineer
7,809 Job Openings
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