Average US Salary by State in 2024

When you’re looking at average US salary by state data in 2024, understanding it highly crucial. As the current job market evolves and economic conditions fluctuate. In this case having accurate information about income levels across different states empowers individuals, policymakers, and businesses to make informed decisions. Let’s explore some key points to consider:

1. Regional Disparities: Salaries can vary significantly from one state to another due to factors such as cost of living, industry concentration, and local demand for specific skills. Knowing these disparities helps job seekers and employers navigate the job market effectively.

2. Career Planning: If you’re considering relocating or pursuing job opportunities in a different state, understanding the average salary can guide your career choices. It allows you to assess whether the potential income aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle expectations.

3. Policy Formulation: Policymakers rely on salary data to design effective labor policies, allocate resources, and address income inequality. By analyzing state-specific salary trends, they can create targeted programs to enhance economic growth and workforce development.

4. Business Strategy: Companies use salary information to determine competitive compensation packages. Whether expanding operations or hiring remote employees, understanding state-level salaries helps businesses remain competitive and attract top talent.

5. Quality of Life: Salary isn’t just about earning potential; it impacts overall quality of life. Knowing the average income in a state provides insights into housing affordability, healthcare access, and educational opportunities.

Factors Influencing State Salaries

Several factors contribute to variations in state salaries:

• Industry Composition: States with strong technology, finance, or healthcare sectors tend to offer higher salaries due to demand for specialized skills.

• Cost of Living: High-cost states may compensate with higher salaries to offset living expenses.

• Labor Market Dynamics: Job availability, unemployment rates, and competition affect salary levels.

• Education and Experience: States with well-educated populations and experienced professionals often have higher average salaries.

State-Specific Insights

1. California:

   • Known for its thriving tech industry, California offers competitive salaries for software developers. Companies in Silicon Valley and other tech hubs pay well, but the high cost of living can offset the benefits.

   • The average salary for a Software Developer in California is around $120,000 per year, with variations based on experience, location, and company size.

2. Washington:

   • Washington State hosts major tech companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing. The Seattle area is a hub for software development.

   • The average salary for a Software Developer in Washington is approximately $128,933 per year, aligning with the national average. Companies like Microsoft and Amazon contribute to this competitive pay.

3. New York:

   • As a financial hub, New York City boasts lucrative salaries across various industries, including technology. Manhattan, in particular, offers high-paying jobs.

   • The average salary for a Software Developer in New York is approximately $115,000 per year. However, this figure can vary significantly based on factors like specialization and years of experience.

4. Maryland:

   • Maryland, with its proximity to Washington, D.C., has a strong tech presence. Companies in cybersecurity, biotech, and government contracting offer competitive salaries.

   • The average salary for a Software Developer in Maryland is around $107,869 per year. Health benefits often include medical, dental, and vision coverage.

5. Rhode Island:

   • Rhode Island is smaller but has a growing tech scene. Salaries can vary based on location and industry.

   • The average salary for a Software Developer in Rhode Island is approximately $97,775 per year. Providence and nearby areas offer opportunities in software development.

How Much is Average US Salary

What is Meaning of Average Salary

An average salary represents the typical or middle income earned by individuals within a specific group, organization, or geographical area. It is calculated by summing up all individual salaries and dividing the total by the number of people included in the dataset. The average provides a central value that helps us understand the overall compensation level.

What are Factors Influence Average Salaries

There are several factors which contribute to variations in average salaries:

1. Industry Composition: The mix of industries within a region significantly impacts average salaries. For example, states with thriving technology, finance, or healthcare sectors tend to offer higher pay due to demand for specialized skills.

2. Cost of Living: High-cost states may compensate with higher salaries to offset living expenses. Conversely, states with a lower cost of living might have lower average salaries.

3. Labor Market Dynamics: Job availability, unemployment rates, and competition influence salary levels. A tight labor market often leads to higher wages.

4. Education and Experience: States with well-educated populations and experienced professionals generally have higher average salaries. Education levels and work experience play a crucial role.

State by State Analysis of US Developer Salary

Software Developer Salary in California

California, home to Silicon Valley and a thriving tech industry which offers competitive salaries for software developers. These professionals play a crucial role in designing, building, and maintaining software applications. Here are some key points about software developer salaries in California:

• Average Salary: As of 2024, the average annual salary for software developers in California is approximately $130,000. However, this figure can vary based on factors such as experience, specialization, and location within the state.

• High Demand: California’s tech ecosystem drives demand for skilled software developers. Companies seek talent proficient in programming languages like Python, Java, JavaScript, and C++. Whether working on mobile apps, web development, or cloud solutions, software developers are in high demand.

• Cost of Living: It’s essential to consider the cost of living in California. While salaries are competitive, housing and other expenses can be steep, especially in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Transparent California Salary Data

“Transparent California” is a public database that provides salary information for government employees in California. It aims to promote transparency and accountability. You can explore salaries of various public servants, including teachers, police officers, and administrators.

Average California Salary

The overall average salary in California varies significantly based on occupation, industry, and education level. Some of the highest-paying professions include software engineering, healthcare, finance, and legal services. However, keep in mind that living costs can impact your quality of life even with a higher salary.

You must research specific roles and industries within California to get a more detailed understanding of salaries. Whether you’re a job seeker, employer, or policymaker, staying informed about state-specific compensation trends is essential for making informed decisions.

Software Developer Salary in New York

• According to PayScale, the average annual base salary for a Software Developer in New York is $98,415 in 2024. The salary range typically falls between $66,000 and $140,000. This figure considers base salary, bonuses, and profit sharing.

• ZipRecruiter reports an average annual pay of $114,570 for Software Developers in New York as of March 30, 2024. This translates to approximately $55.08 per hour.

• For New York City specifically, ZipRecruiter indicates an average annual pay of $110,884, which equates to around $53.31 per hour.

• Indeed provides a broader range, with an average salary of $149,446 per year in New York, NY, along with a $5,000 cash bonus.

• Salary.com estimates the average Software Developer salary in New York, NY to be $145,079, with a typical range between $132,826 and $158,4175.

New York Salary Transparency Law

As of September 17, 2023, New York State businesses with four or more employees are required to list compensation ranges for designated job opportunities, promotions, and transfers. These ranges consist of the minimum and maximum annual salary or hourly compensation believed to be accurate at the time of posting. Employers must also clearly state if a position is commission-based and are prohibited from retaliating against employees who discuss their compensation with coworkers. This legislation underscores New York’s commitment to addressing wage disparities and promoting transparency in compensation practices across the state. Proposed regulations to accompany this new law are currently available and were published in the State Register on September 13, 2023.

New York Salary After Taxes

Understanding your take-home pay after taxes is essential. New York has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 4% to 10.9%, depending on your income level and filing status. Living in New York City adds an additional local income tax on top of the state tax. For example:

• A single filer living in New York City with an annual income of $65,000 would have a yearly take-home pay after income taxes of approximately $47,906.32.

• If the same individual lives in another city in New York, the yearly post-tax take-home pay would be approximately $49,991.32.

Keep in mind that these figures can vary based on individual circumstances and other deductions.

New York Salary Threshold 2024

Effective March 13, 2024, the salary threshold for certain exemptions under Article 6 of the New York Labor Law (NYLL) will increase from $900 to $1,300 per week. Article 6 sets forth employer obligations related to pay practices in New York, providing wage protections to employees. The increased thresholds come as New York’s minimum wage also rose in 2024, reaching $16 per hour for New York City and $15 per hour for the rest of the state.

Remember to consider both pre-tax salary and post-tax take-home pay when evaluating compensation in New York!

Software Developer Salary in Washington

1. According to Indeed, the average base salary for a Software Engineer in Washington State is $128,933 per year, which aligns with the national average. Additionally, there’s a $5,000 cash bonus offered annually. Here’s a breakdown by experience:

   • Less than 1 year: $120,478

   • 1 to 2 years: $123,779

   • 3 to 5 years: $141,578

   • 6 to 9 years: $162,200

   • More than 10 years: $162,200

Some of the top-paying companies for Software Engineers in Washington State include Meta, Salesforce, Uber, Google, and Oracle.

2. Talent.com reports an average software developer salary in Washington of $121,776 per year or approximately $58.55 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $97,500, while experienced workers can earn up to $162,324 per year.

3. Zippia provides a slightly lower average salary of $105,301 for software developers in Washington, with a typical range between $78,000 and $141,000 per year. The average hourly rate is $50.633.

4. ZipRecruiter states that the average annual pay for a Software Developer in Washington is $123,981, equivalent to approximately $59.61 per hour. This translates to about $2,384 per week or $10,331 per month.

Washington Salary Threshold 2024

Starting January 1, 2024, the salary threshold for certain exemptions under Article 6 of the New York Labor Law (NYLL) will increase in Washington State. Here are the details:

• Threshold Amount: Employees exempt from overtime pay must earn at least $1,302.40 per week or $67,724.80 annually.

• Applicability: These rules apply to various positions and industries, ensuring fair compensation for workers.

• Computer Professionals: Computer professionals must be paid an hourly rate rather than a salary, and their minimum wage multipliers differ from other employees.

Washington State Salaries

Washington State provides transparency by publishing state employee salaries. Here are some resources to explore:

1. State Staffing Reports: These reports offer an overview of state employee salaries, historical trends, and specific government positions.

2. Salary Lookup Databases:

   • For the year 2021, you can find Washington State employee salaries in the database, including base pay and additional compensation.

   • The database for the year 2022 also provides salary information.

3. OpenGovWA: This platform allows you to find the annual earnings of state employees, including their names, positions, agencies, and total salaries.

Washington Salary Minimum

The minimum wage in Washington State is set to increase as follows:

• 2024 Minimum Wage: Starting January 1, 2024, the minimum wage will be $16.28 per hour.

• Exempt Salary Threshold: The salary threshold for exempt employees remains the same for both small and large employers: $1,302.40 per week or $67,724.80 annually.

These updates aim to ensure fair compensation for workers and reflect the economic landscape in Washington State.

Software Developer Salary in Maryland

1. According to PayScale, the average annual base salary for a Software Developer in Maryland is $107,869 in 2024. The salary range typically falls between $73,000 and $118,000. This figure considers base salary, bonuses, and profit sharing.

2. Indeed reports an average salary of $117,678 per year for software engineers in Maryland, along with a $5,000 cash bonus.

3. ZipRecruiter states that the average annual pay for a Software Developer in Maryland is $110,489, equivalent to approximately $53.12 per hour. This translates to about $2,124 per week or $9,207 per month.

4. Talent.com provides an average software developer salary in Maryland of $118,404 per year or approximately $56.92 per hour. Entry-level positions start at $92,500 per year, while most experienced workers can make up to $166,289 per year.

5. Levels.fyi indicates that the average Software Engineer salary range in Maryland spans from $92,000 to $150,000.

Maryland Salary Insights

Maryland stands 10th among 63 states for salaries on ZipRecruiter. As of March 24, 2024, the average annual pay in Maryland for a Software Developer is $110,489, translating to an hourly rate of approximately $53.12. Here's a breakdown:

• The average weekly income amounts to around $2,124.

• Monthly earnings reach approximately $9,207.

It's important to note that these figures may vary depending on factors such as occupation, industry, and personal circumstances.

State of Maryland Salary Scale 2024

The State Salary Plan provides details about job titles, class codes, salaries, and other attributes for job classifications within the State Personnel Management System. As of January 1, 2024, here are some key points:

• Hourly Pay Rate: The hourly pay rate has been updated to reflect a minimum rate of $15/hr.

• Salary Scales: The salary scales define each of the payroll system salary structures (grades and steps) on an annual, bi-weekly, and hourly basis. These scales are typically updated in July to reflect Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA’s) if approved during the legislative session each spring.

  • Standard and Bargaining Unit Salary Scales: These scales cover various positions and provide a framework for fair compensation.

  • Other Salary Scales: Additional scales cater to specific roles and industries within the state.

Whether you’re an employee, employer, or policymaker, understanding Maryland’s salary landscape is essential for informed decision-making.

Software Developer Average Rhode Island Salary

1. According to Indeed, the average annual base salary for a Software Engineer in Rhode Island is $97,775 in 2024. This figure aligns with the national average. Additionally, there’s a $5,000 cash bonus offered annually.

2. ZipRecruiter reports an even higher average annual pay of $140,077 for Software Engineers in Rhode Island as of March 29, 2024. This translates to approximately $67.34 per hour.

3. Levels.fyi indicates that the average Software Engineer salary range in Rhode Island spans from $86,000 to $144,000.

4. Salary.com estimates the average Software Developer salary in Rhode Island to be $129,926, with a typical range between $118,954 and $141,873.

Most salaries in Rhode Island range between $47,343 (25th percentile) to $83,464 (75th percentile) annually. Keep in mind that salaries will vary depending on occupation, experience, and other factors. Some of the top-paying jobs in Rhode Island include Brain Surgeon, Olympic Athlete, and Cardiologist. Additionally, pay may differ in various areas of the state. For instance:

• Ashaway is the city with the highest average salary on ZipRecruiter.

Rhode Island Salary Calculator

If you want to estimate your take-home pay, you can use tools like the Rhode Island Paycheck Calculator. These calculators consider federal, state, and local taxes, as well as other relevant information. Whether you’re a salaried or hourly employee, these tools help you understand your net pay after deductions.

Remember that understanding your actual take-home pay involves considering various factors, including tax withholdings and deductions. It’s essential to stay informed about your specific situation to make informed financial decisions!

Comparing Average Salaries Across States

Analyzing average salaries across different states provides valuable insights into economic trends, workforce dynamics, and regional disparities. Let’s delve into a comparative analysis:

1. California vs. New York

   • California boasts high-tech salaries due to its thriving tech industry, but the cost of living is equally high.

   • New York offers lucrative salaries, especially in finance and Manhattan, but also has a higher tax burden.

   • Both states attract top talent but come with unique trade-offs.

2. Washington vs. Maryland

   • Washington balances competitive salaries with a lower cost of living. Tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft contribute to the state’s robust economy.

   • Maryland ranks well for salaries and has a diverse job market. Its proximity to Washington, D.C., influences compensation levels.

   • Consider factors like lifestyle preferences and industry focus when comparing these states.

3. Rhode Island

   • Rhode Island surprises with its strong average salary, ranking fourth nationally. It offers a mix of high-paying jobs and a reasonable cost of living.

   • Explore specific industries and cities within Rhode Island for a deeper understanding.

4. Other States

   • Each state has its unique salary landscape. Factors like industry concentration, education levels, and local policies play a role.

   • Research individual states to uncover hidden gems and opportunities.

Trends and Variations

• Tech Dominance: States with robust tech ecosystems (California, Washington) tend to offer higher salaries.

• Financial Hubs: New York and Massachusetts excel in finance and healthcare.

• Cost of Living: High-paying states often have higher living costs.

• Policy Impact: State laws influence salary transparency, minimum wage, and exemptions.

Remember that salary comparisons should consider not only numbers but also lifestyle, job satisfaction, and overall well-being. Choose wisely based on your priorities

Wrapping Up!

Our analysis of the average US salary by state in 2024 underscores the significance of recognizing regional disparities, facilitating informed career planning, addressing policy implications, refining business strategies, and enhancing overall quality of life. Armed with this information, individuals can make well-informed decisions about their career paths and relocations, while businesses can refine their recruitment strategies to attract and retain top talent. Ultimately, understanding average salaries contributes to a more equitable and prosperous society, benefiting both individuals and organizations alike.

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FAQs

What US state has the highest average salary?

Washington, D.C. has the highest average salary among US states.

What is a good salary in USA?

A good salary in the USA varies depending on factors like location, industry, and individual circumstances, but generally, it's considered to be above the national average, around $70,000 or more per year.

Is $300,000 a good salary in usa?

Earning $300,000 a year provides a comfortable lifestyle but may not generate great wealth.

Is a salary of 100k good in USA?

A salary of $100,000 is considered good in most parts of the country.

How much is 120k salary in nyc?

$120,000 salary in NYC is above average and allows for a decent standard of living.