In the last twenty years, the software development industry has flourished like never before in India. Tech companies of all sizes, from startups to multinational corporations, are on the hunt for skilled developers.
In this article, we’ll discuss the salary trends of software developers in India based on experience, location, skills, job role, etc.
Who is a Software Developer?
A software developer is a professional who develops applications or systems that run on computers and devices. They help determine the digital interfaces we all use every day.
They also write code, debug software, work with teams, and ensure applications run properly. Developers tend to work on both frontend applications and backend infrastructure.
Factors Affecting Software Developer Salary in India
a. Years of Experience
More experience generally leads to higher pay. Entry-level roles pay significantly less than mid or senior-level positions.
b. Skills and Certifications
Specialised skills like AI/ML, cloud computing, or blockchain can boost earning potential. Certifications from platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft also add value.
c. Location
Cities like Bangalore and Hyderabad offer higher pay due to the concentration of tech companies and living costs.
Software Developer Salary Based on Experience
a. Fresher (0–1 years)
• Average Salary Range: ₹3.5 LPA – ₹6 LPA
• Top Employers: TCS, Wipro, Infosys
• Interview Insights: Most offers include joining bonuses, but salaries depend on college tier and skill test scores.
b. 1–3 Years Experience
• Salary Range: ₹6 LPA – ₹10 LPA
• After probation, developers usually receive performance hikes and handle more coding responsibilities.
• This is the learning phase where developers build a strong technical foundation.
c. 3–5 Years Experience
• Salary Range: ₹10 LPA – ₹18 LPA
• Developers start mentoring juniors and may transition into senior roles.
• There is a focus on ownership, architecture design, and feature planning.
d. 5–10 Years Experience
• Salary Range: ₹18 LPA – ₹30+ LPA
• Mid-senior professionals may become team leads or technical architects.
• Companies value them for leadership, tech stack knowledge, and scalability skills.
e. 10+ Years Experience
• Salary Range: ₹30 LPA – ₹70+ LPA
• Roles include Software Architects, Project Managers, Engineering Managers, and VPs.
• Perks often include ESOPs, stock options, performance bonuses, and flexible working.
Salary Comparison by Job Role
Top Companies Paying High Salaries
• Google – ₹25–80 LPA for experienced engineers.
• Microsoft – ₹20–70 LPA depending on the level.
• Amazon – ₹18–60 LPA with bonuses.
• Infosys, TCS, Wipro – ₹3–12 LPA for most roles.
• Startups (Flipkart, Zomato, Swiggy) – ₹10–35 LPA with ESOPs and fast growth potential.
MNCs offer structured packages and global exposure, while startups bring rapid career growth and stock benefits.
Salary Growth Tips
• Learn In-Demand Tech: Master modern stacks like MERN, cloud, or AI.
• Certifications: AWS, GCP, or Azure can make your resume stand out.
• Switch Strategically: Changing jobs after 2–3 years often brings a 30–80% hike.
• Explore Freelancing: Tap into international clients via platforms like Upwork.
• Soft Skills Matter: Communication and leadership can fast-track promotions.
Conclusion
Software development remains one of the highest-paying and stable career options in India. Thanks to remote work and freelancing, even junior developers can access global markets.
Salary increase relies upon skills, ongoing learning, and wise career choices. Whether you’re beginning or already well on your way, this evolving field has enormous potential in front of you.
In this article, we’ll discuss the salary trends of software developers in India based on experience, location, skills, job role, etc.
Who is a Software Developer?
A software developer is a professional who develops applications or systems that run on computers and devices. They help determine the digital interfaces we all use every day.
They also write code, debug software, work with teams, and ensure applications run properly. Developers tend to work on both frontend applications and backend infrastructure.
Factors Affecting Software Developer Salary in India
a. Years of Experience
More experience generally leads to higher pay. Entry-level roles pay significantly less than mid or senior-level positions.
b. Skills and Certifications
Specialised skills like AI/ML, cloud computing, or blockchain can boost earning potential. Certifications from platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft also add value.
c. Location
Cities like Bangalore and Hyderabad offer higher pay due to the concentration of tech companies and living costs.
Software Developer Salary Based on Experience
a. Fresher (0–1 years)
• Average Salary Range: ₹3.5 LPA – ₹6 LPA
• Top Employers: TCS, Wipro, Infosys
• Interview Insights: Most offers include joining bonuses, but salaries depend on college tier and skill test scores.
b. 1–3 Years Experience
• Salary Range: ₹6 LPA – ₹10 LPA
• After probation, developers usually receive performance hikes and handle more coding responsibilities.
• This is the learning phase where developers build a strong technical foundation.
c. 3–5 Years Experience
• Salary Range: ₹10 LPA – ₹18 LPA
• Developers start mentoring juniors and may transition into senior roles.
• There is a focus on ownership, architecture design, and feature planning.
d. 5–10 Years Experience
• Salary Range: ₹18 LPA – ₹30+ LPA
• Mid-senior professionals may become team leads or technical architects.
• Companies value them for leadership, tech stack knowledge, and scalability skills.
e. 10+ Years Experience
• Salary Range: ₹30 LPA – ₹70+ LPA
• Roles include Software Architects, Project Managers, Engineering Managers, and VPs.
• Perks often include ESOPs, stock options, performance bonuses, and flexible working.
Salary Comparison by Job Role
Job Role | Average Salary (₹) |
Backend Developer | 6–15 LPA |
Full Stack Developer | 7–18 LPA |
Data Engineer | 9–22 LPA |
Frontend Developer | 5–12 LPA |
DevOps Engineer | 8–20 LPA |
Mobile App Developer | 6–16 LPA |
Top Companies Paying High Salaries
• Google – ₹25–80 LPA for experienced engineers.
• Microsoft – ₹20–70 LPA depending on the level.
• Amazon – ₹18–60 LPA with bonuses.
• Infosys, TCS, Wipro – ₹3–12 LPA for most roles.
• Startups (Flipkart, Zomato, Swiggy) – ₹10–35 LPA with ESOPs and fast growth potential.
MNCs offer structured packages and global exposure, while startups bring rapid career growth and stock benefits.
Salary Growth Tips
• Learn In-Demand Tech: Master modern stacks like MERN, cloud, or AI.
• Certifications: AWS, GCP, or Azure can make your resume stand out.
• Switch Strategically: Changing jobs after 2–3 years often brings a 30–80% hike.
• Explore Freelancing: Tap into international clients via platforms like Upwork.
• Soft Skills Matter: Communication and leadership can fast-track promotions.
Conclusion
Software development remains one of the highest-paying and stable career options in India. Thanks to remote work and freelancing, even junior developers can access global markets.
Salary increase relies upon skills, ongoing learning, and wise career choices. Whether you’re beginning or already well on your way, this evolving field has enormous potential in front of you.