Software Engineer vs AR/VR Developer: Which Pays More?
Side-by-side salary comparison by city, experience level, and career growth outlook. Data reflects current market rates.
Software Engineer
Design, develop and maintain software systems and applications.
AR/VR Developer
Build augmented and virtual reality experiences for gaming, enterprise, and training.
Software Engineer earns more on average — the national median is $0/year (0%) higher than a AR/VR Developer. However, salaries vary significantly by city, employer, and experience level — see the city-by-city breakdown below.
Software Engineer vs AR/VR Developer — Salary by City
National median figures in USD across top cities.
| City | Software Engineer | AR/VR Developer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $194,950 | $194,489 | Software +$461 |
| New York, NY | $166,830 | $166,830 | Software +$0 |
| Seattle, WA | $189,468 | $188,885 | Software +$583 |
| Austin, TX | $148,834 | $153,759 | Software $4,925 |
| Chicago, IL | $149,966 | $144,495 | Software +$5,471 |
| Boston, MA | $176,542 | $172,806 | Software +$3,736 |
| London, UK | £73,942 | £103,650 | Software $29,708 |
| Toronto, Canada | CA$126,152 | CA$175,134 | Software $48,982 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Software Engineer or AR/VR Developer earn more?+
A Software Engineer earns more on average. The national median salary for a Software Engineer is $135,980/year, compared to $135,980/year for a AR/VR Developer — a difference of $0 (0%).
Which has better career growth — Software Engineer or AR/VR Developer?+
Software Engineer roles are growing at 25% YoY while AR/VR Developer demand is growing at 38% YoY. AR/VR Developer has stronger near-term demand growth.
Can you switch from Software Engineer to AR/VR Developer?+
Yes. Many professionals transition between these roles, especially since both are in the same category. Shared skills include: analytical thinking, communication, and industry knowledge.
Which is harder to automate — Software Engineer or AR/VR Developer?+
AR/VR Developer has a lower AI automation risk (28% vs 48%). Based on Oxford Martin School and McKinsey 2023 analysis.