Average Comp Sci Salary: Career Outlook and Salary Trends

The average computer science salary is a hot topic, and for good reason. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of software developers is projected to grow 21% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.

This growth is driven by the increasing demand for mobile and cloud computing, big data, and cybersecurity. The median annual salary for computer and information technology occupations is $91,490, with the top 10% earning more than $160,000.

With a strong foundation in computer science, you can pursue a wide range of careers, from software engineering to data science and artificial intelligence.

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Computer science salaries can vary widely depending on factors like experience, location, and specific job roles.

The median annual salary for computer and information technology jobs was $91,250 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Computer engineers with more years of experience often earn higher salaries than entry-level workers, with salaries over $120,000 as of 2021.

Advanced computer engineering degree-holders can land high-paying roles in computer and information systems management, earning a median salary of $159,010 as of 2021.

A master's degree in computer science can make a significant difference in salary, with average salaries ranging from $105,000 annually.

Here's a breakdown of median salaries for various occupations within computer science, based on entry-level degree requirements:

Web developers are in high demand, and for good reason – the average computer science salary for web developers is around $92,789 per year, according to the article section facts.

As a web developer, you'll have the option to branch off and choose to study other computer science-related fields, which can lead to additional bonuses and a higher computer science salary.

Data science learning platforms like DataCamp and Udacity specialize in preparing industry professionals, including web developers, so you can develop your skills and find your niche.

The field of computer science is very wide and flexible, with many different professions to choose from, including web development.

Here's a breakdown of the average computer science salary for different professions, according to the article section facts:

As you can see, web developers are among the highest-paid computer science professionals, with a median salary of $92,789 per year.

As of May 2021, computer engineers earned a median annual salary approaching $128,170, according to the BLS.

Experience plays a significant role in determining salary potential, with higher salaries often occurring with more experience.

The median annual salary for computer engineers is around $128,170, as reported by the BLS in May 2021.

Keep in mind that salaries can vary depending on the industry, location, and specific job requirements.

The BLS reported that computer engineers earned a median annual salary of $128,170 as of May 2021.

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The average computer scientist salary has risen by $19,914 over the last ten years. This significant increase is a testament to the growing demand for skilled professionals in the field.

In 2014, computer scientists earned an average of $83,324 annually, but today they earn $103,238 a year, marking a 12% change in pay for computer scientists over the last decade.

The highest salary potential for computer engineers often occurs with experience, with a median annual salary approaching $128,170 as of May 2021.

This upward trend in computer scientist salaries is a great sign for those considering a career in the field, as it suggests a strong job market and opportunities for advancement.

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The average salary for computer science professionals varies significantly depending on the industry and location. In the tech industry, salaries can range from $114,000 in software development to $143,000 in data science.

For instance, in the finance industry, computer science professionals can earn up to $130,000 in banking and $145,000 in investment banking.

If you're a computer engineer looking to boost your salary, consider moving to urban areas with high costs of living, such as Washington, California, and Massachusetts. These states have some of the highest average computer engineer salaries, but also come with a higher cost of living.

California employs the highest number of computer engineers, with 19,910 professionals working in the state. Several Californian metropolitan areas lead the pack in employment and wages.

Some of the top-paying states for computer engineers include Washington, California, Oregon, and Idaho. Washington takes the top spot with an average salary of $117,530, followed closely by California with $126,688.

Here's a list of the top 5 highest-paying states for computer engineers:

If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider states like Alabama, Wisconsin, and Utah, which also have high average salaries for computer engineers.

If you're a computer engineer looking to maximize your earning potential, consider the top-paying industries for your profession.

The securities, commodity contracts, and other financial investments and related activities industry offers the highest average annual wage of $194,630 for computer engineers, according to the BLS data.

However, this industry also has the lowest employment numbers, with only 100 computer engineers employed.

In contrast, the scientific research and development services industry has a much higher employment number of 13,360, but a lower average annual wage of $172,460.

If you're looking for a balance between salary and job availability, consider the software publishers industry, which has an average annual wage of $167,580 and 1,750 employed computer engineers.

Computer engineers can also find opportunities in various other industries, including computer systems design and related services, semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing, and computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing.

Here are the top-paying industries for computer engineers, ranked by average annual wage:

Having a degree in computer science can significantly impact your salary potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for computer and information technology jobs was $91,250 in May 2020.

A bachelor's degree in computer science can lead to high five-figure salaries, with some career paths offering median salaries over $100,000. For example, software developers can earn a median salary of $110,140, while computer network architects can earn a median salary of $116,780.

However, pursuing a master's degree in computer science can lead to even higher salaries. According to Payscale, the average salary for someone with a master's degree in computer science is $105,000 annually, compared to $91,000 for someone with a bachelor's degree.

Here's a breakdown of average salaries by education level:

Having a higher education level can significantly impact your salary in the field of computer science. An associate degree in computer science can lead to entry-level careers, but the average annual wage is around $65,000.

A bachelor's degree in computer engineering, on the other hand, can land you a job with an average annual wage of $92,000. This is a substantial increase from the associate degree.

Pursuing a master's degree in computer engineering can also boost your salary to an average of $103,000 per year. This is a significant jump from the bachelor's degree.

A doctorate of computer science can lead to an even higher salary, with an average annual wage of $131,000. This is the highest average salary among the options listed.

Here's a comparison of average salaries by education level:

Having a master's degree in computer science can also lead to higher salaries, with an average annual wage of $105,000, according to Payscale.

The average student loan debt among computer science graduates is estimated at around $36,140 for the graduating class of 2021.

Your debt could be more or less depending on where you attend school. If you’re pursuing an advanced degree, figure on your total debt bill ending up much higher.

The good news is that many career paths within computer science offer high five-figure salaries with just a bachelor's degree. Depending on where you attended college and the amount of loans required, you may be able to tackle your debt quicker than other graduates.

Computer science was among the top bachelor degree programs with the lowest percent of loan debt compared to earnings, according to a 2021 study by the Texas Policy Center.

Although you might leave school with a reasonably large student loan debt bill, the outlook could be much worse.

As computer science graduates, you're likely wondering about your earning potential and how you can increase your chances of landing a high-paying job. Let's take a look at some upward mobility options for computer engineers.

Pursuing a graduate degree can lead to career advancement, with computer engineers transitioning into supervisory, research, and data-focused positions.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for computer and information research scientists was $126,830 in May 2020.

A master's degree in computer science can also lead to higher salaries, with an average annual salary of $105,000, compared to $91,000 for those with a bachelor's degree.

Here are some examples of upward mobility options for computer engineers:

By gaining new skills and experience, computer engineers can move upward into these roles and increase their earning potential.

Computer engineers with experience can earn a high salary, with a median annual salary of $128,170 as of May 2021.

Experience plays a significant role in determining salary potential, so building a strong career foundation is key.

The highest salary potential for computer engineers often occurs with experience, which is a great motivator to keep learning and growing in the field.

To give yourself the best chance at earning a high salary, focus on developing a strong skill set and gaining relevant work experience.

As you navigate salary negotiations, keep in mind that a median annual salary of $128,170 is a benchmark to aim for, especially with experience under your belt.

San Francisco, CA takes the top spot as the highest-paying city for computer scientists, with an average salary of $139,569 and an hourly rate of $67.10.

Computer scientists in Seattle, WA can expect a salary of $118,932 and an hourly rate of $57.18, making it the second-highest paying city on the list.

New York, NY comes in third, with an average salary of $97,193 and an hourly rate of $46.73.

Oak Ridge, TN and San Antonio, TX tie for fourth place, with average salaries of $95,647 and $95,224, respectively.

Here's a breakdown of the top 5 cities for computer scientists: