▼17%
$181,743
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$157k
MEDIAN
$182k
90%
$215k
The average salary for a Principal Software Engineer is $181,743 in 2025
Base Salary
$157k - $215k
Bonus
$18k - $40k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $11k
Total Pay
$174k - $255k
Is Average Experienced Principal Software Engineer with Software Architecture Skills Salary in San Jose, California 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?
▲9%
What Do Principal Software Engineers Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Software Engineer
Medical
95%
Dental
95%
Vision
95%
None
5%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Software Engineers
Male
100.0%
This data is based on 8 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Software Engineers
What is the highest pay for Principal Software Engineers in San Jose?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Software Engineer in San Jose is $215k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Software Engineers in San Jose?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Software Engineer in San Jose is $157k / 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.