Entertainment, tech, aerospace — sprawling and high-paying. Here's how Software Engineers in Los Angeles get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Los Angeles metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $132,500 | $100,800 | $172,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $164,700 | $125,200 | $214,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $189,400 | $144,000 | $246,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $227,200 | $172,800 | $295,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $257,500 | $195,800 | $334,900 |
Highest-paying metros for Software Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Los Angeles metro economy.
The average Software Engineer salary in the Los Angeles metro is $189,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $144,000 to $246,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $312,600 or more.
Yes — Los Angeles pays -12% relative to the California state median for Software Engineers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Los Angeles vs. national: +37%. That puts Los Angeles among the stronger US markets for Software Engineers — though cost of living in Los Angeles is also typically elevated.
In Los Angeles, the median Software Engineer salary of $189,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Software Engineers in Los Angeles start around $132,500, while seniors (10+ years) reach $227,200 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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