▼30%
$101,016
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$72k
MEDIAN
$101k
90%
$139k
The average salary for a Software Design Engineer (SDE) is $101,016 in 2025
Base Salary
$72k - $139k
Bonus
$1k - $21k
Profit Sharing
$4k - $7k
Total Pay
$71k - $161k
Is Average Software Design Engineer (SDE) Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Software Design Engineer (SDE)s?
What Do Software Design Engineer (SDE)s Do?
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How do Software Design Engineer (SDE)s Rate Their Jobs?
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Common Health Benefits for a Software Design Engineer (SDE)
Medical
88%
Dental
88%
Vision
77%
None
12%
Gender Breakdown for Software Design Engineer (SDE)s
Male
86.4%
Female
13.6%
This data is based on 22 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Software Design Engineer (SDE)s
What is the highest pay for Software Design Engineer (SDE)s?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Software Design Engineer (SDE) is $139k / year
What is the lowest pay for Software Design Engineer (SDE)s?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Software Design Engineer (SDE) is $72k / year
How can Software Design Engineer (SDE)s increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Software Design Engineer (SDE) 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 Software Design Engineer (SDE) that oversees more junior Software Design Engineer (SDE)s, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.