Software Engineer Software Engineer Salary in Carlsbad, CA

Software Engineer Salary in Carlsbad, CA

Updated on Jul 10, 2026
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How much does a Software Engineer make in Carlsbad, CA?

The average salary for a Software Engineer is $134,853 per year in Carlsbad, CA.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Software Engineer jobs in Carlsbad, CA, showing an average salary of $134,853 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Software Engineer jobs in Carlsbad, CA, showing an average salary of $11,238 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Software Engineer jobs in Carlsbad, CA, showing an average salary of $2,593 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Software Engineer jobs in Carlsbad, CA, showing an average salary of $65 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Carlsbad, CA, is a great place for Software Engineers to work. The average yearly salary for a Software Engineer in Carlsbad is around $134,853. This is a good income that can help many people live comfortably.


The salary for Software Engineers in Carlsbad can vary. Some earn less, while others earn more. Here is a look at how much different Software Engineers make. For example, some earn around $80,000 a year. On the higher end, some earn about $231,000 a year. The most common salary range falls between $107,409 and $148,523. These numbers show that there are many opportunities for Software Engineers to earn a good salary in Carlsbad.

Software Engineer jobs in Carlsbad, CA
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What are the highest paying cities for a Software Engineer near Carlsbad, CA?

Job seekers can find high-paying opportunities for Software Engineer positions in cities near Carlsbad, CA. La Jolla leads with an average salary of $167,199. San Diego offers a competitive $165,392 on average. These figures highlight the region's robust tech industry and the attractive salaries it provides. Exploring further, Escondido offers $129,083, while Poway provides an average of $121,386. Vista follows with $119,490, and Solana Beach presents $115,810 as the average salary. Oceanside, with an average of $103,500, rounds out the list of nearby cities with good pay for software engineers. These numbers indicate good earning potential in the area.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Software Engineer jobs near Carlsbad, CA, highlighting La Jolla, CA with the highest at $167,199 and Oceanside, CA with the lowest at $103,500.

  1. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $167,199
    La Jolla offers a vibrant tech scene with major firms like Qualcomm and Illumina. Engineers here work on cutting-edge technology and benefit from the beautiful coastal environment. The blend of innovation and relaxation makes it an attractive place for tech professionals.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in La Jolla, CA


  2. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $165,392
    San Diego boasts a thriving tech industry, home to giants like Qualcomm and eBay. Engineers here collaborate on high-impact projects and enjoy a mild climate. The city’s diverse job market offers many opportunities for growth and advancement.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in San Diego, CA


  3. Escondido, CA
    Average Salary: $129,083
    Escondido provides a growing tech environment with companies like Qualcomm and Cirrus Logic. Engineers enjoy a strong sense of community and a lower cost of living. The area combines innovation with a laid-back lifestyle.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Escondido, CA


  4. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $121,386
    Poway is emerging as a tech hub with local firms like Callaway Golf and North County Federal Credit Union. Engineers benefit from a supportive community and close-knit work culture. The area offers a mix of suburban living and tech opportunities.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Poway, CA


  5. Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $119,490
    Vista offers a mix of small businesses and tech companies, including those in the defense sector. Engineers find a welcoming community with a strong focus on family and quality of life. The area provides a good balance between work and personal life.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Vista, CA


  6. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $115,810
    Solana Beach provides a relaxed coastal atmosphere with tech companies like North County Federal Credit Union. Engineers enjoy a laid-back environment while working on innovative projects. The city’s scenic location adds to its appeal.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  7. Oceanside, CA
    Average Salary: $103,500
    Oceanside combines a laid-back lifestyle with tech opportunities from companies like North County Federal Credit Union. Engineers benefit from a beautiful coastal setting and a supportive community. The area offers a perfect blend of work and leisure.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Oceanside, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Software Engineer in Carlsbad, CA?

ALPHATEC SPINE, INC. leads the pack in Carlsbad, CA, offering a top salary for software engineers. This company stands out with its average salary of $180,000. For those seeking high compensation, ALPHATEC SPINE, INC. presents an excellent opportunity. Viasat follows closely, paying software engineers an average of $138,985. Joining Viasat means working with a company that values skilled software professionals. Additionally, L3Harris offers an average salary of $136,917, making it another attractive choice for software engineers in Carlsbad.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Software Engineer jobs in Carlsbad, CA, highlighting ALPHATEC SPINE, INC. with the highest at $180,000 and CalAmp with the lowest at $100,837.

  1. ALPHATEC SPINE, INC.
    Average Salary: $180,000
    ALPHATEC SPINE, INC. offers Software Engineer jobs with a strong focus on developing medical device software. This Carlsbad-based company operates globally, with locations in the U.S. and internationally. They value innovation and teamwork in their engineering projects.


  2. Viasat
    Average Salary: $138,985
    At Viasat, Software Engineers work on cutting-edge projects related to communications technology. This Carlsbad company has locations across the U.S. and internationally. They are known for their collaborative environment and commitment to employee development.


  3. L3Harris
    Average Salary: $136,917
    L3Harris provides Software Engineer positions with a focus on aerospace and defense technology. Operating from Carlsbad, this company has numerous locations across the U.S. They offer diverse projects and opportunities for professional growth.


  4. Thermo Fisher Scientific
    Average Salary: $130,466
    Thermo Fisher Scientific offers Software Engineer jobs in the life sciences industry. Based in Carlsbad, this company has locations worldwide. They emphasize scientific research and innovation in their engineering roles.


  5. KBR
    Average Salary: $100,944
    KBR provides Software Engineer positions focused on engineering and construction. With locations in Carlsbad and beyond, this company offers projects in various sectors. They value teamwork and technical expertise in their engineering teams.


  6. CalAmp
    Average Salary: $100,837
    CalAmp offers Software Engineer jobs with a focus on IoT solutions. Operating from Carlsbad, this company has offices in the U.S. and internationally. They offer innovative projects and a supportive work environment for their engineers.

Currently 6,086 Software Engineer job openings, nationwide.

View Software Engineer Jobs in Carlsbad, CA

How's the job market for a Software Engineer in the US?

Learn what a Software Engineer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Software Engineer today.
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