Average Principal Software Engineer Salary in Ashburn, Virginia

$151,744
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$135k
MEDIAN
$152k
90%
$214k

The average salary for a Principal Software Engineer is $151,744 in 2025

Base Salary
$135k - $214k
Bonus
$11k - $30k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $4k
Total Pay
$138k - $252k
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FAQs About Principal Software Engineers

What is the highest pay for Principal Software Engineers in Ashburn?

Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Software Engineer in Ashburn is $214k / year

What is the lowest pay for Principal Software Engineers in Ashburn?

Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Software Engineer in Ashburn 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.