TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Software Engineer Salary in Boston
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$167,126/yr
Typical range: $140,386 – $222,009
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Software Engineer salary by experience level in Boston
Software Engineer Salary Progression in Boston
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 | $120,049 | $10,004 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $148,295 | $12,358 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $167,126 | $13,927 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $193,490 | $16,124 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $261,282 | $21,774 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $327,662 | $27,305 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $344,257 | $28,688 | +187% |
Current Salary
$167,126
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $80/hr
Next Level Target
$193,490
Senior · 6
+$26Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
56/100
Moderate
+25% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Software Engineer salary in Boston, MA?
3–5 Years Experience Software Engineers in Boston, MA earn approximately $167K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Software Engineer make per hour in Boston, MA?
Based on $167K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $80/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Software Engineer in Boston, MA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Software Engineer in Boston, MA earns $222K–$273K/yr.