How much does a Site Reliability Engineer make?
Site Reliability Engineers (SREs) play a key role in keeping systems running smoothly. They make sure that applications are reliable, efficient, and scalable. This important job comes with a good salary. The average yearly salary for SREs is around $149,868. This means that many SREs earn a solid income.
The salary for SREs can vary based on experience and location. Entry-level SREs might start with a salary around $75,000. As they gain more experience, their salary can increase. Experienced SREs can earn up to $253,300 per year. This shows that there is good potential for growth in this field. Companies often value SREs for their ability to keep systems running smoothly and efficiently.
What are the highest paying cities for a Site Reliability Engineer?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $199,118
In San Francisco, tech giants like Google and Salesforce offer exciting opportunities. These companies focus on innovation and reliability, making it a great place for those in the field. The city's tech-savvy environment provides a dynamic and challenging work atmosphere.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $178,559
Seattle is home to tech leaders like Amazon and Microsoft. These companies value reliability and efficiency. Working here means being part of a team that drives tech forward. The city's vibrant tech scene offers many growth opportunities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $177,763
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, is a hub for tech companies like Apple and Cisco. These companies focus on creating reliable systems. The city's tech-centric culture provides a stimulating environment for professionals. Opportunities for career advancement are plentiful.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $171,830
Boston offers a mix of tech startups and established firms like IBM and Fidelity. These companies emphasize reliability and innovation. The city's rich history and vibrant culture make it an attractive place to work. Professionals here enjoy a blend of tradition and modernity.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $165,171
San Diego is a growing tech center with companies like Qualcomm and eBay. These companies focus on creating robust systems. The city's beautiful weather and quality of life make it a desirable place to work. Professionals here enjoy a balanced lifestyle with plenty of opportunities.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $157,293
Baltimore is home to tech firms like Under Armour and Black & Decker. These companies value reliability and efficiency. The city's unique blend of urban and historic charm offers a distinctive work environment. Professionals here benefit from a supportive community and diverse opportunities.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $157,112
Hartford is a growing tech hub with companies like United Technologies and Eversource. These companies focus on creating reliable systems. The city's rich history and vibrant culture provide a unique backdrop for work. Professionals here enjoy a mix of tradition and innovation.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $155,381
Washington, DC, is a political and tech hub with companies like Amazon and Lockheed Martin. These companies emphasize reliability and security. The city's political and cultural significance offers a dynamic work environment. Professionals here enjoy a mix of challenges and opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $154,879
Los Angeles is a diverse tech hub with companies like Google and Activision Blizzard. These companies focus on creating reliable and engaging systems. The city's vibrant culture and entertainment industry provide a dynamic work environment. Professionals here enjoy a mix of creativity and innovation.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $146,972
Austin is a booming tech hub with companies like Dell and Apple. These companies value reliability and innovation. The city's vibrant music and food scene offers a lively work environment. Professionals here enjoy a mix of challenges and opportunities in a growing tech landscape.
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What are the best companies a Site Reliability Engineer can work for?

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NVIDIA
Average Salary: $252,761
NVIDIA offers exciting opportunities for Site Reliability Engineers. They focus on maintaining and improving the reliability of their systems. They operate globally, with major offices in Santa Clara, California, and other locations worldwide.
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Okta
Average Salary: $233,045
At Okta, Site Reliability Engineers play a key role in ensuring the stability and performance of their services. They work in various locations, including their headquarters in San Francisco, California, and other offices across the globe.
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MongoDB
Average Salary: $215,206
MongoDB provides a dynamic environment for Site Reliability Engineers. They focus on keeping their database systems running smoothly. MongoDB has offices in New York, New York, and other locations worldwide.
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Wells Fargo
Average Salary: $211,095
Wells Fargo offers competitive salaries for Site Reliability Engineers. They work to ensure the reliability of their financial systems. They operate in many locations, including their headquarters in San Francisco, California.
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Apple
Average Salary: $200,717
Apple provides a prestigious platform for Site Reliability Engineers. They focus on maintaining the reliability of Apple's products and services. Apple has offices in Cupertino, California, and other locations worldwide.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $193,962
CVS Health offers rewarding opportunities for Site Reliability Engineers. They work to ensure the reliability of their healthcare systems. They operate in many locations, including their headquarters in Woonsocket, Rhode Island.
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TikTok
Average Salary: $193,471
TikTok provides a fast-paced environment for Site Reliability Engineers. They focus on keeping the platform running smoothly. They operate in various locations, including their headquarters in Los Angeles, California.
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Palo Alto Networks
Average Salary: $193,434
Palo Alto Networks offers exciting opportunities for Site Reliability Engineers. They work to ensure the reliability of their cybersecurity systems. They operate in many locations, including their headquarters in Santa Clara, California.
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Tesla
Average Salary: $190,746
Tesla provides a cutting-edge environment for Site Reliability Engineers. They focus on maintaining the reliability of their electric vehicles and energy products. They operate in many locations, including their headquarters in Austin, Texas.
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ByteDance
Average Salary: $175,415
ByteDance offers a dynamic environment for Site Reliability Engineers. They work to ensure the reliability of their content platforms. They operate in many locations, including their headquarters in Beijing, China.
How to earn more as a Site Reliability Engineer?
A Site Reliability Engineer (SRE) plays a key role in ensuring that systems run smoothly and efficiently. To earn more in this role, consider these important factors. Gaining experience and expertise can lead to higher pay. SREs who take on more complex projects and responsibilities often see a rise in their salary. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies also help. Certifications and advanced degrees can make a significant difference. Networking with other professionals in the industry opens up more job opportunities and potential salary increases.
Another way to earn more is by moving to a company that values SREs highly. Some companies offer better compensation packages than others. Look for roles in tech hubs or companies with strong engineering cultures. Working for a company that invests in its employees can lead to higher earnings. Lastly, consider negotiating your salary. Being aware of the market rate for your skills and experience can help you ask for a fair salary. SREs who advocate for themselves often find better compensation.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as an SRE:
- Gain experience and expertise
- Continuous learning and certifications
- Networking with other professionals
- Moving to a company with better compensation
- Negotiating your salary



