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How much does a Software Engineer make in Santa Cruz, CA?

The average salary for a Software Engineer is $151,358 per year in Santa Cruz, CA.

A Software Engineer in Santa Cruz, CA, can expect to earn a strong income. The average yearly salary for this role is approximately $151,358. This figure reflects the broad salary range that professionals can earn in the area. For instance, some Software Engineers may make as little as $98,650 per year, while others might earn upwards of $206,400 annually. This range offers plenty of opportunities for growth and career advancement.


The salary distribution shows that the majority of Software Engineers in Santa Cruz fall within a certain income bracket. About 10.08% of professionals earn between $98,650 and $108,445 per year. Another 7.20% make between $108,445 and $118,241 annually. A significant 15.83% of Software Engineers earn between $167,218 and $177,014 per year. These figures highlight the potential for both entry-level and experienced professionals to find well-paying opportunities in the area. By understanding this distribution, job seekers can better prepare for their potential earnings in Santa Cruz.

Software Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Software Engineer near Santa Cruz, CA?

Los Gatos, CA, offers the highest average salary for software engineers near Santa Cruz, at $320,378 per year. Close by, Santa Clara County has several other promising locations for software engineers, including Saratoga, with an average salary of $201,735. San Jose, Palo Alto, Campbell, and Scotts Valley also provide attractive salary packages, making these cities excellent choices for those seeking top compensation in the software engineering field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Software Engineer jobs near Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Los Gatos, CA with the highest at $320,378 and Hollister, CA with the lowest at $114,833.
  1. Los Gatos, CA
    Average Salary: $320,378
    Los Gatos offers a vibrant community with a growing tech scene. Many startups and established companies like Cisco and Zoom call this city home. Engineers here enjoy a lively work environment with numerous opportunities for innovation.
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  2. Saratoga, CA
    Average Salary: $201,735
    Saratoga combines a small-town feel with big tech opportunities. Companies like Google and Tesla are nearby, offering dynamic roles for tech professionals. It’s an ideal place for those seeking a balance between a peaceful living environment and a thriving tech career.
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  3. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $183,574
    San Jose, often called Silicon Valley, is the tech hub. Major companies like Apple, Oracle, and Adobe are located here. The city buzzes with innovation, making it a top choice for those passionate about technology and eager to work on cutting-edge projects.
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  4. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $180,708
    Palo Alto is home to tech giants such as Tesla and Hewlett-Packard. The city's innovative spirit and thriving tech culture make it an exciting place for engineers. Professionals here benefit from a dynamic work environment and a strong network of tech professionals.
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  5. Campbell, CA
    Average Salary: $157,068
    Campbell provides a close-knit community with easy access to Silicon Valley’s tech giants. Engineers benefit from a supportive work culture and proximity to major tech companies. The city offers a perfect blend of suburban peace and urban tech opportunities.
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  6. Scotts Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $135,312
    Scotts Valley offers a smaller, more tranquil setting with access to major tech companies. Known for its scenic beauty, it is also a hub for innovation. Engineers here enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with excellent career growth opportunities in tech.
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  7. Monterey, CA
    Average Salary: $132,232
    Monterey has a laid-back atmosphere with access to tech companies in nearby Silicon Valley. Its coastal location offers a relaxed environment for tech professionals. Working here means enjoying beautiful scenery and a supportive tech community.
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  8. Seaside, CA
    Average Salary: $118,494
    Seaside combines a serene coastal lifestyle with tech opportunities. While it’s a quieter place, it is close to major tech hubs. Engineers here can enjoy a peaceful living environment while staying connected to the tech industry's vibrant pulse.
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  9. Hollister, CA
    Average Salary: $114,833
    Hollister offers a friendly, small-town vibe with access to Silicon Valley’s tech companies. It provides a more affordable living option while allowing tech professionals to be part of the region’s booming tech scene. It’s a great place for those seeking a balance between work and life.
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What are the best paying companies for a Software Engineer in Santa Cruz, CA?

Amazon and Jane Technologies, Inc. offer some of the highest-paying jobs for Software Engineers in Santa Cruz, CA. Amazon tops the list with an average salary of around $181,905, followed closely by Jane Technologies, Inc. with an average of approximately $174,167. Job seekers will find these companies highly competitive and rewarding for their technical skills.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Software Engineer jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Amazon with the highest at $181,905 and University of California, Santa Cruz with the lowest at $108,501.
  1. Amazon
    Average Salary: $181,905
    Amazon offers diverse opportunities for Software Engineers. They work on projects that shape the future of retail and technology. Locations include Santa Cruz and Seattle.


  2. Jane Technologies, Inc.
    Average Salary: $174,167
    Jane Technologies, Inc. focuses on innovative tech solutions. Software Engineers here work on cutting-edge projects. The company operates in Santa Cruz and beyond.


  3. Joby Aviation
    Average Salary: $149,071
    Joby Aviation combines technology and aviation. Software Engineers develop software for air vehicles. They operate primarily in Santa Cruz and New York.


  4. Google
    Average Salary: $116,333
    Google offers many opportunities for Software Engineers. They work on projects that drive tech innovation. Google has offices in Santa Cruz and many other locations.


  5. University of California, Santa Cruz
    Average Salary: $108,501
    The University of California, Santa Cruz, provides Software Engineering roles in education and research. They focus on tech applications and innovation. The university operates in Santa Cruz.

Currently 12,060 Software Engineer job openings, nationwide.

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

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Position
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Software Engineer
12,060 Job Openings