▼6%
$174,997
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$135k
MEDIAN
$175k
90%
$225k
The average salary for a Principal Software Engineer is $174,997 in 2025
Base Salary
$135k - $225k
Bonus
$6k - $41k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $5k
Total Pay
$136k - $248k
Is Average Experienced Principal Software Engineer with Software Development Skills Salary in San Francisco, California your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Software Engineers?
▲6%
What Do Principal Software Engineers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Software Engineer
Medical
88%
Dental
88%
Vision
88%
None
13%
Gender Breakdown for Principal 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 Principal Software Engineers
What is the highest pay for Principal Software Engineers in San Francisco?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Software Engineer in San Francisco is $225k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Software Engineers in San Francisco?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Software Engineer in San Francisco is $135k / year
How can Principal Software Engineers increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Principal 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 Principal Software Engineer that oversees more junior Principal Software Engineers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.