Computer Programmer Salary Guide & Career Outlook

The computer programmer salary can vary according to multiple factors, the most important of them being location, industry, local policies, and experience.  A computer programmer is an individual in charge of writing codes or scripts for computer software. As a future candidate, you have to know that as a computer programmer you will be needed to supervise any type of task related to creating a functional computer program. Your position will also cover code writing, supervision, review, quality control, and market analysis.

How Much Does a Computer Programmer Make per Year by Country?

*These figures are estimated based on the other pay information given. This assumes a 40 hour work week.

Computer Programmer Salary Influencing Factors

1. Location

Your current location can also be considered a computer programmer salary influencer. According to the latest income reports, the highest paying state for this profession is considered Washington. Therefore, a computer programmer can earn as much as $119,540 per year or $57.47 per hour.

However, the second top paying state for computer programmers is New Mexico. You will have the opportunity of earning as much as $103,200 per year or $49.62 per hour. Ranking third in high-paying states for computer programmers is Massachusetts. An individual occupying this position can earn $93,420 per year or $44.91 per hour.

Some other high paying states, in no particular order:

• District of Columbia: $91,100 per year;
• Virginia: $91,460 per year;
• Maryland: $86,030 per year;
• Alaska: $85,520 per year;
• New Jersey: $79,190 per year.

If you’re currently seeking employment as a computer programmer, then you should avoid these states at all costs because they have the lowest paying rates in the country:

• South Dakota: $50,060 per year;
• North Dakota: $51,700 per year;
• West Virginia: $58,020 per year;
• Wyoming: $59,010 per year;
• Mississippi: $61,020 per year;
• Louisiana: $63,640 per year.

2. Experience

Among the most important factors that can determine the average computer programmer salary, experience is the most vital. It can determine your salary. However, it also increases chances of being employed as well. As far as the computer programmer education goes, a good college with high rating is invaluable. However, experience is preferable.

Below, you will find a list containing the average computer programmer salary sorted by seniority:

• Entry Level Computer Programmers: $44,450 per year or $21.37 per hour;
• Junior Computer Programmer: $60,250 per year of $28.97 per hour;
• Experienced Computer Programmer: $79,530 per year or $38.24 per hour;
• Senior Computer Programmer: $103,570 per year or $49.75 per hour;
• Top End Computer Programmer: $130,800 per year or $62.89 per hour.

3. Industry

One the most important factors that are capable of influencing the computer programmer salary is the industry. Therefore, on which industry you choose your salary will vary accordingly.

According to the same income report published on Sokanu.com, the highest paying industry for this profession is considered Finance and Insurance. An individual occupying this position has a mean income of $78,580 per year.

On the other hand, a computer programmer employed in the Utility Branch has the lowest mean income, compared to other industries, which is $76,180 per year. Therefore, it’s important to consider the industry carefully.

Here are some more industries suitable for a computer programmer:

• Transportation and Warehousing: $77,000;
• Wholesale Trade: $77,210;
• Manufacturing: $78,090;
• Information: $78,500.

If you are currently seeking employment with some of the largest companies out there on the market, there are good opportunities. The media computer programmer salary at TATA Consultancy services is $67,904 per year.

In addition, CEI is another top paying company. A computer programmer can earn as much as $69,752 per year.

Scheduled & Working Hours

A computer programmer is required to work 40 hours per week. Usually, individuals occupying this position work in an office-like environment, surrounded by big-screen monitors and computers. However, most employers offer the possibility of working from home.

As far as the computer programmer schedule, some of them might have to work overtime or during the weekend in order to deliver the projects. However, most must fulfill a 40-hours a week work.

Computer Programmer Salary by State

Bonuses and Benefit Packages

Becoming employed in this profession has several advantages. They usually come in the form of monthly or yearly bonuses. Therefore, employers offer their staff the possibility of working overtime for a little extra something. Furthermore, you may be able to earn extra bonuses at the end of your projects. That depends on its priority and the company’s policy.In addition, the future looks bring for these professionals. The computer programmer salary will increase with time.

Software creation and configuration, however, are highly worth it as well.

Career Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted a 3.3 percent growth for the 2014-2024 timeframe. Therefore, the computer programmer job outlook seems promising. The growth of technology will further propel them into success.

Conclusion

The computer programmer salary can vary according to various factors. It may not seem like it, but the job of a computer programmer is a high-stress profession. However, pay and the opportunity of writing a computer software are highly rewarding. Their field is highly related to the java programmer, so make sure to check that out as well.