▼28%
$137,896
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$115k
MEDIAN
$138k
90%
$157k
The average salary for a Lead Software Engineer is $137,896 in 2025
Base Salary
$115k - $157k
Bonus
$2k - $26k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $26k
Total Pay
$119k - $171k
Is Average Late-Career Lead Software Engineer with SQL Skills 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 Engineers?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Lead Software Engineer
Medical
88%
Dental
84%
Vision
80%
None
12%
Gender Breakdown for Lead Software Engineers
Male
83.3%
Female
16.7%
This data is based on 30 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Lead Software Engineers
What is the highest pay for Lead Software Engineers?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Lead Software Engineer is $157k / year
What is the lowest pay for Lead Software Engineers?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Lead Software Engineer 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.