▼26%
$151,813
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$127k
MEDIAN
$152k
90%
$186k
The average salary for a Lead Software Engineer is $151,813 in 2025
Base Salary
$127k - $186k
Bonus
$5k - $49k
Total Pay
$131k - $196k
Is Average Experienced Lead Software Engineer with Software Architecture Skills Salary in Chicago, Illinois your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Lead Software Engineers?
What Do Lead Software Engineers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Lead Software Engineer
Medical
92%
Dental
77%
Vision
77%
None
8%
Gender Breakdown for Lead Software Engineers
Male
91.7%
Female
8.3%
This data is based on 12 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Lead Software Engineers
What is the highest pay for Lead Software Engineers in Chicago?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Lead Software Engineer in Chicago is $186k / year
What is the lowest pay for Lead Software Engineers in Chicago?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Lead Software Engineer in Chicago is $127k / year
How can Lead Software Engineers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Lead 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 Lead Software Engineer that oversees more junior Lead Software Engineers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.