In Philadelphia, PA, Software Developers earn a median of $127,150 a year — about 8% below the U.S. median of $138,110. Among the 49 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #27.
What that pay is worth in Philadelphia
Local prices run 103 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $125,850 salary buys less than it looks — about $122,716 in national-average buying power.
Can Software Developers afford a home in Philadelphia?
A typical Philadelphia home runs about $232,400 — 1.8 times the average Software Developer salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,323/mo takes roughly 13% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Software Developer pay ladder in Philadelphia
Entry-level (10th percentile) Software Developers earn about $79,820; the top 10% reach $169,960 — a $90,140 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 Philadelphia
Philadelphia employs roughly 25,310 Software Developers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Philadelphia with other cities
See the full Software Developer salary by city ranking to weigh Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?
The average Software Developer in Philadelphia, PA earns about $125,850 per year, 8.9% below the national average of $138,110.
What is the take-home pay for Software Developers in Philadelphia after taxes?
After federal and PA taxes, this $125,850 salary is worth about $93,420 a year - roughly $7,785 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 26%.
What do the highest-paid Software Developers earn in Philadelphia?
The top 10% of Software Developers in Philadelphia earn about $169,960 a year, versus about $79,820 for the bottom 10%.
Can Software Developers afford a home in Philadelphia?
A typical Philadelphia home runs about $232,400 - roughly 1.8x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.