▼3%
$156,872
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$116k
MEDIAN
$157k
90%
$202k
The average salary for a Principal Architect is $156,872 in 2025
Base Salary
$116k - $202k
Bonus
$5k - $38k
Profit Sharing
$1k - $37k
Commission
$0 - $31k
Total Pay
$119k - $227k
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Architects?
What Do Principal Architects Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Architect
Medical
93%
Dental
84%
Vision
76%
None
7%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Architects
Male
87.3%
Female
9.9%
Prefer to self-define
2.8%
This data is based on 71 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Architects
What is the highest pay for Principal Architects?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Architect is $202k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Architects?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Architect is $116k / year
How can Principal Architects increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Principal Architect 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 Architect that oversees more junior Principal Architects, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.