▼29%
$155,783
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$121k
MEDIAN
$156k
90%
$199k
The average salary for a Principal Software Engineer is $155,783 in 2026
Base Salary
$121k - $199k
Bonus
$4k - $30k
Profit Sharing
$3k - $30k
Total Pay
$125k - $213k
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Software Engineers?
What Do Principal Software Engineers Do?
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How do Principal Software Engineers Rate Their Jobs?
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Common Health Benefits for a Principal Software Engineer
Medical
94%
Dental
90%
Vision
86%
None
5%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Software Engineers
Male
89.1%
Female
9.7%
Prefer to self-define
0.7%
This data is based on 764 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Software Engineers
What is the highest pay for Principal Software Engineers?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Software Engineer is $199k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Software Engineers?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Software Engineer is $121k / 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.