▼40%
R583,116
Avg. Base Salary (ZAR)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (ZAR)
10%
ZAR 244k
MEDIAN
ZAR 583k
90%
ZAR 905k
The average salary for a Software Development Engineer (SDE) is R583,116 in 2025
Base Salary
R244k - R905k
Bonus
R40k - R175k
Total Pay
R241k - R921k
Is Average Software Development Engineer (SDE) Salary in South Africa your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Software Development Engineer (SDE)s?
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Common Health Benefits for a Software Development Engineer (SDE)
Medical
48%
Dental
10%
Vision
10%
None
52%
Gender Breakdown for Software Development Engineer (SDE)s
Male
81.3%
Female
18.8%
This data is based on 16 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Software Development Engineer (SDE)s
What is the highest pay for Software Development Engineer (SDE)s?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Software Development Engineer (SDE) is ZAR 905k / year
What is the lowest pay for Software Development Engineer (SDE)s?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Software Development Engineer (SDE) is ZAR 244k / year
How can Software Development Engineer (SDE)s increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Software Development 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 Development Engineer (SDE) that oversees more junior Software Development Engineer (SDE)s, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.