▼19%
C$123,254
Avg. Base Salary (CAD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (CAD)
10%
CA$97k
MEDIAN
CA$123k
90%
CA$152k
The average salary for a Principal Software Engineer is C$123,254 in 2025
Base Salary
C$97k - C$152k
Bonus
C$5k - C$20k
Profit Sharing
C$2k - C$13k
Total Pay
C$98k - C$160k
Is Average Principal Software Engineer Salary in Canada your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Software Engineers?
What Do Principal Software Engineers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
How do Principal Software Engineers Rate Their Jobs?
Based on 12 responses, the job of Principal Software Engineer has received a job satisfaction rating of 4 out of 5. On average, Principal Software Engineers are highly satisfied with their job.
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Software Engineer
Medical
92%
Dental
82%
Vision
76%
None
6%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Software Engineers
Male
89.4%
Female
10.6%
This data is based on 47 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Software Engineers
What is the highest pay for Principal Software Engineers?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Software Engineer is CA$152k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Software Engineers?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Software Engineer is CA$97k / year
How can Principal Software Engineers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Principal Software Engineer is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Principal Software Engineer that oversees more junior Principal Software Engineers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.