If you’re looking for a career that places you at the intersection of technology and creativity, then coding may be the job for you. Coding languages aren’t just about 1’s and 0’s, though there is plenty of that involved. Coders like web developers, software developers and computer programmers build things, and coding is applicable to almost any field, so there’s ample opportunity to find a coding job that you’re passionate about.
As a qualified computer programmer ,for example, writes, modifies, and tests code and scripts that allow computer software and applications to function properly. In other words, computer programmers turn the designs created by software developers and engineers into instructions that a computer can follow.
But what does a coder actually make? The answer is: it depends. So in this post, we’ll break down all the factors that affect a coder’s annual salary.
Why Learn Coding Skills?
Coding is the process of writing instructions for a computer to follow. It is also known as computer programming. Coding languages are used to create a wide variety of things, including websites, apps, software, video games, and even machine learning and data science tools. It’s among the most in-demand skills in the world, within and outside of the tech industry.
Here are some of the things you can use computer code for:
- Build websites and apps: Coding is essential for building websites and apps. Popular programming languages for web development include HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. For app development, popular languages include Java, Swift, and Kotlin.
- Develop software: Coding is also used to develop software systems for all sorts of devices, from computers and smartphones to cars and medical devices. Popular coding languages for software development include Java, Python, and C++.
- Create video games: Computer languages are used to create video games of all kinds, from simple mobile games to complex console and PC games. Popular coding languages for game development include C++, C#, and Unity.
- Develop artificial intelligence: Coding is also used to develop artificial intelligence (AI) systems. AI is a rapidly growing field with many applications, such as self-driving cars, facial recognition software, and medical diagnosis systems. A popular coding language for AI development is Python and TensorFlow.
Programming skills can also be used in a variety of other ways, such as:
- Automating tasks: Coding can be used to automate tasks, such as sending emails, generating reports, and processing data. This can free up your time to focus on more important things.
- Analyzing data: Coding can also be used to analyze data and identify trends in database systems or data warehouses. This information can be used to make better decisions in business and other areas of life.
- Building your own tools and products: With coding skills, you can build your own tools and products to solve specific problems. This can be a great way to start a business or make a difference in the world. You can also use your skills to modify existing programs.
You don’t need a Computer Science degree to learn coding. There are a number of online coding courses and coding bootcamps that can get you started.
Choosing a Coding Career
According to Labor Statistics, coding is a highly sought after skill that can open a number of different doors. Computer programming knowledge and coding skills may lead to career as one of the following:
- Software engineer / Computer Programmers: Software engineers design, develop, and test software applications. Software engineers use coding skills to create the instructions that the computer systems follow to perform tasks.
- Web developer: Web developers build and maintain websites. They use coding languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create the structure, appearance, and functionality of websites.
- Data scientist: Data scientists use coding skills to collect, clean, and analyze data. Data scientists use the insights they gain from the data to help businesses and organizations make better decisions.
- Database administrators: Database administrators are not required to be software developers, butcoding skills are essential for many DBA tasks, such as writing and maintaining SQL queries or developing and implementing database performance tuning scripts.
- Cybersecurity analyst: Cybersecurity analysts protect computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. They use coding skills to develop and implement security measures, as well as to detect and respond to cyberattacks.
- Product manager: Product managers are responsible for the development and launch of products. They use coding skills to understand the technical aspects of the products they are developing and to communicate with technical teams.
- User experience (UX) designer: UX designers create user-friendly interfaces for websites and apps. They use coding skills to prototype and test user interfaces.
Many of these coding careers are lucrative and in-demand, with a high median annual salary.
What Is the Average Salary for a Coder?
An average computer programmer’s salary in the United States earn around $89,190 per year.
But the whole story is a bit more complicated. Coders who specialize in a specific coding area make a lot more money and have many benefits included in their annual salary. And coding salaries also vary massively based on your location. Finally, a computer coding salary will dramatically increase as you gain experience and complete coding bootcamps.
How Much Do Coders Make?
An average computer pogrammer salary is $67,370 to around $116,220 per year. But again, what a coder makes depends on a number of factors. Let’s break down how much coders earn.
Coder Salaries by Industry
How much do programmers make by industry? Let’s break a computer programmer salary.
Tech
All of us use applications and apps that communicate data on a daily basis, and coders are responsible for building all of these. The national median salary for computer programmers and developers is around $89,190 a year.
Healthcare
Because the medical industry stores patient information digitally, and because some medical devices also require software, the healthcare industry needs reliable coders. The average annual salary potential for a healthcare developer is $83,062 per year, but computer programmer salaries can be higher based on experience per Labor Statistics.
Government
On average, government computer programmers earn about $122,729 annually. Still, the salaries fluctuate heavily from job to job.
Finance
The finance industry heavily relies upon coding, as banks and financial institutions need coders with their day-to-day operations, including electronic trading systems. Poor coding can lead to massive problems for these institutions, so many are willing to pay top dollar for the best coders available.
Financial coders in the United States make around $145,125 per year.
E-commerce
E-commerce relies on coders to ensure that their customers have a seamless shopping experience. The estimated annual salary of an e-commerce coder is around $107,433 a year.
Coder Salary by Experience
As mentioned earlier, salaries do increase with experience. Let’s break it down:
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Entry-Level Coder
The average salary for an entry-level coder is around $78,556 a year.
Mid-Level Coder
The average salary for a mid-level coder in the United States is $81,484 a year.
Senior Coder
When you attain the highest level of experience, you will start to earn top dollar. The expected salary is around $94,650 a year for a senior coder.
Coder Salary by Specialization
Specializing is a great way to increase your salary. Here are some of the many specializations for computer programmers:
Software Coder
These coders create and format computer software programs and application software. They develop instructions for the software program to perform specific tasks within an integrated development environment, design it to work for different industries, and then maintain these programs afterward.
The national average for a software developer is around $110,140 annually.
Hardware Coder
A computer hardware coder ensures that the tech hardware functions properly, from switching it on to powering it down.
The average salary for a computer hardware developer is $124,035 a year.
Computer and Network Security Coder
These coders use their programming knowledge to bolster a company’s cybersecurity efforts, and prevent hackers from stealing sensitive information. They can test programs to measure their security, and if a breach does occur, they can also conduct a forensic analysis. The average cyber coder in the United States makes around $82,047 a year.
Web Coder
Web coders design and create all kinds of websites, ensuring that users have a seamless experience. The median wage for an online programmer is around $77,200 per year.
App Coder
App coders build and test the applications that we use on our smartphones. The average mobile app developer salary in the United States is around $104,699 per year, with bonuses.
Coder Salary by Roles
A coder’s role in their company will also affect their paycheck. Different types of coders include:
Web Developer
Web developers help build websites. On average, web developers make about $74,163 a year.
Computer System Analyst
A computer systems analyst uses their coding and computer skills to analyze different systems, and then generate reports. The national median wage for a computer systems analyst is around $79,279 per year.
Computer Engineer
Computer engineers, who test networks and hardware systems, earn around $81,244 a year.
Database Administrator
Database administrators supervise databases to ensure that they function correctly, and make around $98,860 a year.
Software Engineer
Software engineers use their expertise to supervise the entire software development process. On average, a software engineer earns around $120,009 a year.
Software Developer
Software developers map out the design of an application and also test programs for bugs. A software developer earns about $100,000 a year.
Coder Salary by Education
As with most career paths, one’s level of education will affect the salary one can expect. Here’s how that breaks down with coding:
No Degree
If you’re learning to code from scratch, and don’t have a degree, then you can expect to make around $53,216 per year, according to ZipRecruiter.
Coding Courses
A coding bootcamp will teach you what you need to code without a degree’s financial and time constraints. A coding bootcamp is an excellent way to get your foot into the industry without studying for a longer time, and can help you build your professional portfolio. According to Course Report, coders who have completed a coding bootcamp earn an average of $69,079 per year.
Bachelor’s
Programmers with a bachelor’s degree earn around $93,000 a year.
Master’s
According to Salary.com, senior computer programmers with a master’s degree usually earn around $100,000 or more per year.
Coder Salaries by Location
Where you live will also affect what you can expect to make, as average salaries vary from state to state:
- Virginia: $100,985
- Colorado: $72,999
- New York: $62,090
- California: $60,841
- Kansas: $55,388
- Illinois: $52,996
- Texas: $45,354
- Massachusetts: $45,221
Factors Affecting Salaries
Ultimately, no one factor will determine your coding salary. It’s usually a combination of factors that dictates what you can expect to make. Here’s what you should consider:
Educational Background
You don’t need a college degree in Computer Science to start a career in coding, and many incredible coders are entirely self-taught. But your educational background will affect your salary, especially at the beginning of your career.
Experience
As would be expected, the more experienced you are, the more you’ll get paid. But experience isn’t just about years. It’s also about the variety of your roles, and if you have a greater range of work experiences, then you’ll be able to command a higher salary.
Skills
As the name implies, coding skills are a must for all coders, and the more programming languages you know, the more you can expect to make. Some of the most in-demand and popular programming language choices are JavaScript and HTML/CSS. And don’t forget about coding soft skills too.
Location
As we noted earlier, where you live will impact your coding salary. If you can relocate, it may pay to do so since you can get a much higher salary in some states for the same job.
Virginia and Colorado are the highest points for coder salaries in the United States, with New York following close behind.
But you should also the cost of living in each state before moving, since this can also impact how much you take home.
Industry
As a coder, the industry you work in will largely determine what you can expect to make. However, it may be worthwhile to work in a less lucrative industry that you’re passionate about if you think your passion will help you get promoted more quickly.
How To Boost Your Salary as a Coder
Want to earn more? Who doesn’t! Here are a few ways to increase your salary as a coder:
Expand Your Skill Set
Coding bootcamps are a great way to learn the foundations of coding. But if you already have this base knowledge, and want to expand your skillset, then consider an online coding class that will help you develop your coding skills.
Acquire More Experience
One of the best ways of learning is by doing. So try taking on personal and freelance projects to accelerate your career. These sorts of projects are a great way to expand your skill set too. For example, if you want to develop your cybersecurity expertise, then consider taking on a cybersecurity freelance project.
Choose the Right Location
If you want to make more, then consider moving. Virginia and Colorado have the highest wages for coders, but states like California can offer more jobs. If you find the sweet spot of a low cost of living, and a high-paying job, then you’re set.
Negotiate Your Job Offer
Negotiating isn’t about strong-arming your next employer into paying you more. It’s about demonstrating your worth and value as an employee. If you’re trying to negotiate your salary, emphasize the parts of your resume that differentiate you from other candidates.
Pursue a New Degree or Certification
If you’re a coder without a degree, then consider pursuing a certificate to boost your salary. Or, consider going back to school. Some of the best degrees for coders include computer science, computer engineering, and information technology.
Conclusion
Becoming a coder is both lucrative and fulfilling. Our entire world revolves around technology, so it’s not an exaggeration to say that coders make the world go ‘round. There are many different coding jobs to choose from, so can find a job that fits your passions and interests. And who doesn’t want to make money doing the thing they love?
FAQs About Coding Salaries
We have the answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about coding salaries.
How Much Do Coders Make per Hour?
As with annual salaries, the answer depends, but coders make an average hourly wage of $41.
Is Coding a High-Paying Job?
Yes! The average coder salary in the U.S. is $89,190, but that can increase considerably depending on skill and education.
Can Coders Work in Any Field?
Where software is needed, so are coders. That’s one of the great things about coding: you can apply it to whatever you’re passionate about.
Can Coders Earn a Six-Figure Salary?
Yes! But not all coding jobs lend themselves to six-figure salaries. Computer and system managers tend to make more than most other coders, with software developers closely behind. Salaries for these roles average more than $100,000 a year. If you’re a coder and aren’t earning six figures yet, then consider some of the online classes or bootcamps we mentioned earlier.
How Much Does a Computer Programmer Make?
It depends what you mean by computer programmer! Strictly speaking a computer programmer refers to anyone that can create programs for different operating systems and mobile apps using populated computer programming languages. However, there are many different types of computer programmers out there – and there are many factors that influence how much programmers make per hour or per year.
What Are The Factors That Influence The Average Computer Programmer Salary?
There are multiple factors that impact how much coders make, e.g.
Education: Do you have a degree in Computer Science from an accredited university? The technology sector isn’t too concerned with pieces of paper, valuing specialized skills over degree and accolades. But there are several industries that feel differently, and are willing to pay a good salary for someone with a degree.
Job Location: If you are based in one of the highest-paying states in the US, you’ll probably earn a higher median salary than someone who doesn’t. If you are located in the Silicon Valley, e.g. San Francisco or San Jose vs New Mexico, you’ll earn more. San Francisco and New York are among the highest paying cities and programmers have a higher salary potential there.
Experience: A programmer salary can vary depending on their experience and specialization. Are you a database administrator? Entry level coder? QA? It affects the media annual salary you’ll earn. When did you become a coder? An entry-level beginner doesn’t have the earning potential of a senior exec making a career change.
Job Outlook: Don’t assume programmers are in high demand everywhere. The job market has a big impact on your earning potential.
Learning to code is the first step to boosting your earning potential – but it’s not enough on its own.
Can I Find Out the National Average Salary Range for My New Career From the Bureau of Labor Statistics?
Yes, the Bureau of Labor Statistics is a good place to start. They publish the median annual salary for a number of job titles, as well as information related to your job outlook in the technology field, and statistics related to the highest salaries earned across many industries. You can also look at Indeed or Payscale reports to find out which roles have a high-earning potential.
Can I Learn to Code on My Own In My Spare Time?
Yes, you can learn to code on your own! However, learning to code isn’t easy if you are going the self-taught route. Self-learning is time-consuming and can take a few years. It requires consistency and self-discipline. You’ll need to learn complex fundamentals, e.g. how to work with raw data, the basics of binary code, working in integrated development environments, statistical analysis and more. Remember, new technologies pop up all the time – if you don’t have prior experience, you’ll find that self-studying becomes a full-time job on its own. If you want to become a coder in a shorter amount of time, look for a boot camp instead. You’ll gain the coding experience you need and even gain access to entry level roles in the programming world. Look for a popular program that offers project-based learning opportunities. You’ll earn more than the media annual salary for others in your field and have more confidence navigating the job market!
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