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.
$224,096/yr
Typical range: $190,412 – $234,138
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 | $102,963 | $8,580 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $127,189 | $10,599 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $143,340 | $11,945 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $165,952 | $13,829 | +61% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $224,096 | $18,675 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $281,028 | $23,419 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $295,261 | $24,605 | +187% |
Current Salary
$224,096
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $108/hr
Next Level Target
$281,028
Principal · 14
+$57Kpotential 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 $224K 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 $224K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $108/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 $190K–$234K/yr.