Average Principal Programmer Salary

$129,349
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
25%
$100k
MEDIAN
$129k
75%
$137k

The average salary for a Principal Programmer is $129,349 in 2025

Base Salary
$100k - $137k
Bonus
$18k - $35k
Total Pay
$95k - $170k
Is Average Principal Programmer Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
Use our tool to get a personalized report on your market worth.What's this?
United States (change)
How it works:
1
Enter city & years of experience
2
Add pay factors like skills & education
3
Find your market worth with a report tailored to you
Find your market worth – how it works:

How do Principal Programmers Rate Their Jobs?

Not enough data
(2)
We currently don't have any reviews for this job and need at least 5 ratings before we can calculate a satisfaction score. Are you a Principal Programmer? Take our survey to help us meet this goal.

FAQs About Principal Programmers

What is the highest pay for Principal Programmers?

Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Programmer is $NaN / year

What is the lowest pay for Principal Programmers?

Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Programmer is $NaN / year

How can Principal Programmers increase their salary?

Increasing your pay as a Principal Programmer 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 Programmer that oversees more junior Principal Programmers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.