In Raleigh, NC, Software Developers earn a median of $132,000 a year — about 4% below the U.S. median of $138,110. Among the 49 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #16.
What that pay is worth in Raleigh
Local prices run 98 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $132,300 salary is about break-even with the national average ($134,784 adjusted).
Can Software Developers afford a home in Raleigh?
A typical Raleigh home runs about $377,800 — 2.9 times the average Software Developer salary, very affordable against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,468/mo takes roughly 13% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Software Developer pay ladder in Raleigh
Entry-level (10th percentile) Software Developers earn about $80,730; the top 10% reach $185,180 — a $104,450 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 Raleigh
Raleigh employs roughly 16,160 Software Developers. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Raleigh with other cities
See the full Software Developer salary by city ranking to weigh Raleigh 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 Raleigh?
The average Software Developer in Raleigh, NC earns about $132,300 per year, 4.2% below the national average of $138,110.
What is the take-home pay for Software Developers in Raleigh after taxes?
After federal and NC taxes, this $132,300 salary is worth about $96,923 a year - roughly $8,076 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 27%.
What do the highest-paid Software Developers earn in Raleigh?
The top 10% of Software Developers in Raleigh earn about $185,180 a year, versus about $80,730 for the bottom 10%.
Can Software Developers afford a home in Raleigh?
A typical Raleigh home runs about $377,800 - roughly 2.9x this salary, within reach by the classic 3x rule of thumb.