United States
Job
Principal Software Development Engineer

Average Principal Software Development Engineer Salary

Pay
Job Listings
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$142,456
/ year

Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$123k
MEDIAN
$142k
90%
$171k

The average salary for a Principal Software Development Engineer is $142,456 in 2025

Base Salary
$123k - $171k
Bonus
$10k - $29k
Total Pay
$123k - $536k
Based on 10 salary profiles (last updated Mar 04 2025)
Is Average Principal Software Development Engineer Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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Common Health Benefits for a Principal Software Development Engineer

Medical
100%
Dental
86%
Vision
86%

Gender Breakdown for Principal Software Development Engineers

Male
100.0%
This data is based on 4 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
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FAQs About Principal Software Development Engineers

What is the highest pay for Principal Software Development Engineers?

Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Software Development Engineer is $171k / year

What is the lowest pay for Principal Software Development Engineers?

Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Software Development Engineer is $123k / year

How can Principal Software Development Engineers increase their salary?

Increasing your pay as a Principal Software Development 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 Development Engineer that oversees more junior Principal Software Development Engineers, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.

WHAT AM I WORTH?
What your skills are worth in the job market is constantly changing.
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