How long does it take to become a software developer?
Software developers earn a median of about $132,000 a year (about $63/hour) in the US — from around $77,000 entering the field to $208,000+ at the top. Becoming one usually takes anywhere from under a year to about 4 years: Bachelor's degree or bootcamp. No license and flexible entry — a degree, a bootcamp, or a strong portfolio.
Software developer salary
| Entry level (10th percentile) | $77,000 |
| Median (typical) | $132,000 |
| Experienced (90th percentile) | $208,000+ |
| Median hourly | $63/hr |
Approximate US figures based on public wage data (BLS OEWS). Actual pay varies by employer, experience and location.
The path to becoming a software developer
- 1Learn to code (degree, bootcamp, or self-taught)
- 2Build a project portfolio
- 3Practice technical interviews
- 4Land a junior developer role and level up
What you need
- No license required
- Bachelor's, bootcamp, or proven portfolio
Software pays well and is one of the few high-income fields open to bootcamp grads.
Software developer salary by state
Local pay varies with cost of living. See an estimate for your state:
Software developer — frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a software developer?
It usually takes anywhere from under a year to about 4 years. The typical path: Learn to code (degree, bootcamp, or self-taught); Build a project portfolio; Practice technical interviews; Land a junior developer role and level up.
How much do software developers make?
The median pay is about $132,000 a year ($63/hour). Most earn between roughly $77,000 and $208,000, depending on experience, employer and location. See the state pages for local estimates.
Do you need a degree to become a software developer?
Entry requires: No license required; Bachelor's, bootcamp, or proven portfolio. Software pays well and is one of the few high-income fields open to bootcamp grads.
Related careers
General information to help you plan a career — not career, legal or financial advice. Salary figures are estimates and training times are typical routes; both vary by state, program and individual. Check official sources and accredited programs before making decisions.