People who are interested in a career in computer programming frequently inquire about the typical starting salary for a programmer. Despite a slowdown in programming-related job creation, there is still a high demand for these professionals. There will always be a demand for programmers to code and write software programs and apps, regardless of whether they are employed locally or outsourced to another country. Those with programming experience can command six-figure salaries, even if they begin at a modest starting wage of $51,000.
Exactly What Do Computer Programmers Do?
Computers have become an integral part of our personal and professional lives, whether we’re creating online shopping, playing online games, or networking with colleagues. Many people don’t realize that none of these activities would be possible without the skills and expertise provided by computer programmers.
Writers and programmers of computer software are referred to as “computer programmers.” Software engineers may design the programs, but programmers are the ones who put them into action and get them to do what they’re supposed to. Pacman wouldn’t have been nearly as enjoyable if you could only stare at Mario.
In order to make it into an animated game, computer programmers wrote the code. Websites can be both functional and creative thanks to the work of computer programmers. For example, programmers are also responsible for troubleshooting and debugging programs. Maintaining and upgrading software is the responsibility of programmers.
What Affects a Person’s Earning Capacity?
For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) or PayScale report the average annual wage for computer programmers. A starting salary is even provided. There are many variables that can affect these wages, though.
If you have experience in programming and programming languages, you can get a job as a programmer even if you only have an associate’s degree. It is common for programmers to hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Programmers with advanced degrees are typically paid more because they have a greater depth of knowledge and skill in the field of computer programming.
As important as a college degree is the amount of work experience you have had. A programmer with a bachelor’s degree and a few years of experience may earn more money than a programmer with a master’s degree and little experience. Having knowledge of multiple programming languages increases a programmer’s salary.
Employer – Wage potential can be affected by the type of business and the actual employer. Smaller businesses tend to pay lower wages than their larger counterparts.
The location of a programmer’s workplace is also a significant factor in determining their salary. Wages may be higher in larger cities, but this varies from state to state.
Salary Expectations for a New Employee
An average annual salary of $89,580 was reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in May 2018. The bottom ten percent of programmers made about $48,790, while the top 90 percent made about 134,630. Many programmers, including those who are just starting out, are covered by these reported salaries. On PayScale, an entry-level programmer’s starting salary is $51,386 as of November 2019. In addition, starting salaries range from $37,000 to $79,000, according to the study.
Wages for Programmers in Various Locations
The starting salary for programmers, as well as the wages of experienced programmers, is heavily influenced by where they live. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the following states had the highest wages paid to programmers.
- At $126,920 Washington
- It costs $105,200 in the District of Columbia
- $97,470 in California
- State of Arizona: $95,900
- Massachusetts has a $95,380 budget.
The following table lists the states with the lowest wages for programmers.
- 57,060 South Dakotans
- 71.540 dollars in Arkansas
- 71.910 dollars in Wyoming
- Seventy-two thousand one hundred dollars in Kentucky
- $72,770 in New Mexico
Wages for programmers can vary widely from city to city. Large cities with a high cost of living tend to have higher wages. One of the best cities in the United States for programmers, according to U.S. News & World Report, is Seattle, Washington. In Seattle, the average salary for programmers is $124,750.
Bellingham, Washington, is the city with the second-highest average salary, at $110,220 annually. Huntsville, Alabama, also pays well for programmers, with an average yearly salary of $104,380. These salaries are typically paid to experienced programmers, and are not the typical starting wage for new employees.
As long as we have computers, there will always be a need for computer programmers. Regardless of how long a programmer has been in business or what salary they are currently earning, this is a career that will continue to be stimulating and rewarding for as long as they stay in it.
