▼10%
$157,606
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$115k
MEDIAN
$158k
90%
$198k
The average salary for a Lead Software Engineer is $157,606 in 2025
Base Salary
$115k - $198k
Bonus
$15k - $30k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $20k
Total Pay
$113k - $222k
Is Average Lead Software Engineer Salary in San Jose, California 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
94%
Dental
76%
Vision
71%
None
6%
Gender Breakdown for Lead Software Engineers
Male
86.7%
Female
13.3%
This data is based on 15 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Lead Software Engineers
What is the highest pay for Lead Software Engineers in San Jose?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Lead Software Engineer in San Jose is $198k / year
What is the lowest pay for Lead Software Engineers in San Jose?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Lead Software Engineer in San Jose is $115k / 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.