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What does this job actually pay?
Most people negotiate badly because they are negotiating without a number. Knowing the realistic range for your role and level turns "what are your salary expectations?" from an ambush into an ordinary question.
These are approximate US ranges by experience level, drawn from our role guides. Treat them as a starting reference rather than a quote — actual pay varies considerably by city, employer size, and industry, and a senior role at a large firm in an expensive market can sit well above the range shown.
Software Engineer
Approximate US ranges, USD per year
Entry
$85K – $120K
0–2 years
Mid
$120K – $165K
3–7 years
Senior
$165K – $230K
8+ years
These are illustrative national ranges compiled for our role guides, not a quote. Major metros typically run 15–30% higher. Cross-check a current source for your market before you negotiate.
How to use the result
Anchor above the midpoint
If you are asked first, give a range whose bottom is a number you would genuinely accept — because you will usually be offered the bottom. Anchoring at the midpoint tends to settle below it.
Adjust for your market
These are national ranges. Major metropolitan markets typically run 15–30% above them; smaller markets below. Remote roles increasingly pay on a national band rather than a local one.
Negotiate the whole package
Base salary is one component. Bonus, equity, retirement contribution, and paid leave are all negotiable, and are often easier to move than base when a company has a rigid band.
Let them go first when you can
If asked for a number before you have one from them, it is reasonable to say you would like to understand the scope first and ask what the band for the role is. Many jurisdictions now require them to tell you.
Frequently asked questions
Where do these salary figures come from?
They are approximate US market ranges compiled for our role guides as illustrative guidance. They are a reference point for preparing a conversation, not a quote or a guarantee — cross-check against a current source for your specific market before negotiating.
Should I put salary expectations on my resume?
No. It can only narrow your options — too high and you screen yourself out, too low and you anchor against yourself. Address it in conversation once you understand the role.
How much can I usually negotiate?
A 5–15% increase on an initial offer is common when you have a specific reason — a competing offer, a market range, or scope beyond the posting. Most candidates never ask, which is why most candidates get the first number.
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