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Computer Programmer: Salary, Requirements & How to Become One
A data-driven guide to the Computer Programmer career path — what the role involves, how to get hired, and how much demand there is right now.
$100,390
median annual salary
$48.26
median hourly pay
92,230
employed nationally
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How much does a Computer Programmer make?
The median Computer Programmer salary is $100,390 per year (about $48.26/hour). Pay scales with experience, location, and employer — here is the full national distribution:
| Percentile | Annual salary | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (entry) | $57,710 | Bottom 10% — new entrants, lower-cost areas |
| Median (50th) | $100,390 | Typical Computer Programmer pay |
| 90th (top) | $160,460 | Top 10% — senior, high-cost metros |
Source: BLS OEWS, May 2025, occupation "Computer Programmers" (SOC 15-1251). Official U.S. government wage data.
How to become a Computer Programmer
- Build the core skills — through schooling, certification, or self-study relevant to Computer Programmer work.
- Gain hands-on experience via entry-level roles, internships, or apprenticeships.
- Prepare a targeted resume highlighting measurable results.
- Apply through major job boards and company career pages; filter for "Computer Programmer jobs near me".
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Computer Programmer careers — frequently asked questions
- How much does a Computer Programmer make?
- The median Computer Programmer salary is $100,390 per year (about $48.26/hour), per BLS OEWS, May 2025. The middle range runs from $57,710 (10th percentile) to $160,460 (90th percentile), varying by experience, location, and employer.
- How do I become a Computer Programmer?
- Most paths combine relevant education or certification with hands-on experience. Entry-level openings and apprenticeships are a common way in.
- Is Computer Programmer a good career in 2026?
- Computer Programmers employ roughly 92,230 people nationally (BLS OEWS, May 2025), and search demand runs near 50,000 queries per month — both signal steady hiring.