TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Backend Developer Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$226,715/yr
Typical range: $192,638 – $236,875
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Backend Developer salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Backend Developer Salary Progression in Los Angeles
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $104,166 | $8,681 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $128,676 | $10,723 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $145,016 | $12,085 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $167,892 | $13,991 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $226,715 | $18,893 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $284,313 | $23,693 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $298,713 | $24,893 | +187% |
Current Salary
$226,715
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $109/hr
Next Level Target
$284,313
Principal · 14
+$58Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
53/100
Moderate
+22% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Backend Developer salary in Los Angeles, CA?
Staff / Lead Backend Developers in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $227K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Backend Developer make per hour in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $227K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $109/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Backend Developer in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Backend Developer in Los Angeles, CA earns $193K–$237K/yr.