Software Developers, Applications in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $123,630 | $103,620 | +19.3% vs US |
| State Rank | #2 of 51 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 148,550 jobs | 903,160 jobs | 16.4% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | 1.40 | 1.00 | Above average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $72,510 | $34.86 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,090 | $46.20 |
| Median | $123,630 | $59.44 |
| 75th Percentile | $154,710 | $74.38 |
| 90th Percentile | $188,420 | $90.59 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Software Developers, Applications in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $123,630 in California and a 2014–2018 salary trend of +7.0%, software developers, applications are still in strong and growing demand.
How can software developers, applications increase their salary in California?
Software Developers, Applications in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #2 out of 51 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Software Developers, Applications in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing | $125,310 |
| Cable and Other Subscription Programming | $122,890 |
| Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing | $122,670 |
How are Software Developers, Applications paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Software Developers, Applications in California is $123,630, which is 19.3% above the national median of $103,620.