TechnologyOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Software Engineer Salary in Los Angeles
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$137,405/yr
Typical range: $115,420 – $182,527
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Software Engineer salary by experience level in Los Angeles
Software Engineer 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 | $98,699 | $8,225 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $121,923 | $10,160 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $137,405 | $11,450 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $159,080 | $13,257 | +61% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $214,816 | $17,901 | +118% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $269,391 | $22,449 | +173% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $283,035 | $23,586 | +187% |
Current Salary
$137,405
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $66/hr
Next Level Target
$159,080
Senior · 6
+$22Kpotential 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 Los Angeles, CA?
3–5 Years Experience Software Engineers in Los Angeles, CA earn approximately $137K 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 Los Angeles, CA?
Based on $137K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $66/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Software Engineer in Los Angeles, CA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Software Engineer in Los Angeles, CA earns $183K–$224K/yr.