In Los Angeles, CA, Software Developers earn a median of $153,560 a year — about 11% above the U.S. median of $138,110. Among the 49 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #6.
What that pay is worth in Los Angeles
Local prices run 114 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $151,780 salary buys less than it looks — about $133,649 in national-average buying power.
Can Software Developers afford a home in Los Angeles?
A typical Los Angeles home runs about $879,500 — 5.8 times the average Software Developer salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,879/mo takes roughly 15% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Software Developer pay ladder in Los Angeles
Entry-level (10th percentile) Software Developers earn about $94,840; the top 10% reach $209,590 — a $114,750 spread, wide for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Software Developer job market in Los Angeles
Los Angeles employs roughly 58,450 Software Developers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Los Angeles with other cities
See the full Software Developer salary by city ranking to weigh Los Angeles against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Software Developers make in Los Angeles?
The average Software Developer in Los Angeles, CA earns about $151,780 per year, 9.9% above the national average of $138,110.
What is the take-home pay for Software Developers in Los Angeles after taxes?
After federal and CA taxes, this $151,780 salary is worth about $104,968 a year - roughly $8,747 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 31%.
What do the highest-paid Software Developers earn in Los Angeles?
The top 10% of Software Developers in Los Angeles earn about $209,590 a year, versus about $94,840 for the bottom 10%.
Can Software Developers afford a home in Los Angeles?
A typical Los Angeles home runs about $879,500 - roughly 5.8x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.