Senior Software Engineer Salary Guide (2026)
Senior Software Engineer12 locations
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Compare compensation across cities to find the best opportunities for your career and lifestyle.
| Location | Salary Range | Median | Cost of LivingCoL |
|---|---|---|---|
| FrankfurtGermany | €85,000 – €130,000 | €95,000 | 78/100 |
| StuttgartGermany | €80,000 – €125,000 | €92,000 | 82/100 |
| BonnGermany | €78,000 – €110,000 | €90,000 | 74/100 |
| HannoverGermany | €75,000 – €110,000 | €88,000 | 71/100 |
| HamburgGermany | €75,000 – €115,000 | €88,000 | 77/100 |
| DresdenGermany | €78,000 – €100,000 | €86,000 | 66/100 |
| DüsseldorfGermany | €75,000 – €120,000 | €85,000 | 76/100 |
| NurembergGermany | €75,000 – €105,000 | €85,000 | 72/100 |
| CologneGermany | €75,000 – €115,000 | €85,000 | 74/100 |
| DortmundGermany | €72,000 – €105,000 | €84,000 | 69/100 |
| EssenGermany | €70,000 – €102,000 | €81,000 | 68/100 |
| LeipzigGermany | €72,000 – €95,000 | €80,000 | 65/100 |
Senior Software Engineer salaries vary significantly by location, experience level, and company size. Across the 12 locations we track, the average median salary is $86,583.
The highest-paying location is Frankfurt, where the median salary reaches €95,000 (cost of living index: 78/100). However, high salaries don't always translate to higher purchasing power — factor in the cost of living and tax implications for each location.
Europe: European senior software engineers typically earn between €70,000 and €130,000. While lower in absolute terms, strong worker protections, healthcare, and paid leave can offset the gap.
These figures reflect base compensation and may not include bonuses, equity grants, or other benefits that can add 10–30% to total compensation at top companies. For the most accurate picture, click into a specific city to see detailed breakdowns, top hiring companies, and career advice tailored to that market.
Go beyond salary data — practical guides to help you land the role and negotiate the best offer.
The average median senior software engineer salary across 12 locations is $86,583. However, this varies significantly by location — from $70,000 to $130,000 depending on the city and market.
Frankfurt offers the highest median salary at €95,000. US tech hubs generally lead in absolute salary, though European cities can offer better work-life balance and benefits.
Location is one of the biggest factors. The gap between the lowest and highest paying cities can be 2-4x. Cost of living adjustments, local market demand, and company concentration all play a role. Remote positions are increasingly competitive but may adjust based on your location.
The salary ranges shown reflect base compensation. Total compensation at top companies can be 10-30% higher when including annual bonuses, equity/RSU grants, and other benefits. Senior roles at FAANG-level companies often have equity that exceeds base salary.
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