▼22%
$127,656
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$91k
MEDIAN
$128k
90%
$163k
The average salary for a Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE) is $127,656 in 2025
Base Salary
$91k - $163k
Bonus
$2k - $20k
Profit Sharing
$783 - $15k
Total Pay
$93k - $172k
Is Average Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE) Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE)s?
Find your market worth – how it works:
How do Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE)s Rate Their Jobs?
Based on 64 responses, the job of Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE) has received a job satisfaction rating of 3.9 out of 5. On average, Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE)s are highly satisfied with their job.
Common Health Benefits for a Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE)
Medical
90%
Dental
82%
Vision
79%
None
10%
Gender Breakdown for Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE)s
Male
79.1%
Female
19.6%
Prefer to self-define
1.3%
This data is based on 158 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE)s
What is the highest pay for Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE)s?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE) is $163k / year
What is the lowest pay for Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE)s?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE) is $91k / year
How can Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE)s increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE) 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 Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE) that oversees more junior Lead Software Development Engineer (SDE)s, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.