▼8%
$147,382
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$81k
MEDIAN
$147k
90%
$187k
The average salary for a Principal Software Engineer is $147,382 in 2025
Base Salary
$81k - $187k
Bonus
$15k - $22k
Total Pay
$81k - $227k
Is Average Principal Software Engineer with Software Development Skills Salary in Boulder, Colorado your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Software Engineers?
▲6%
What Do Principal Software Engineers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Software Engineer
Medical
100%
Dental
100%
Vision
100%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Software Engineers
Male
66.7%
Female
33.3%
This data is based on 3 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Software Engineers
What is the highest pay for Principal Software Engineers in Boulder?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Software Engineer in Boulder is $187k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Software Engineers in Boulder?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Software Engineer in Boulder is $81k / 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.