Software Engineer Salary in India 2026
The average Software Engineer salary in India is ₹8,50,000 per annum in 2026, ranging from ₹3,50,000 to ₹25,00,000 based on experience, company, skills, and location. Google pays the highest at ₹25,00,000 - ₹60,00,000. Bangalore offers the best average at ₹9,50,000/year.
Key Takeaways — Software Engineer Salary 2026
- Average salary: ₹8,50,000/year in India
- Salary range: ₹3,50,000 (entry) to ₹25,00,000 (senior)
- Highest paying: Google at ₹25,00,000 - ₹60,00,000
- Best city: Bangalore at ₹9,50,000/year average
- Top skills: Java, Python, JavaScript, React boost salary by 20-40%
Software Engineer Salary by Experience Level
Experience is the single biggest factor affecting Software Engineer salary in India. Here's how salary scales from fresher to senior level, based on market data from 2026.
Pro tip: Software Engineer professionals who switch companies every 2-3 years see 30-50% salary jumps compared to 8-15% annual increments at the same company.
Software Engineer Salary at Top Companies
Company choice significantly impacts salary. Product companies and MNCs typically pay 2-3x more than service companies for the same role and experience level.
₹25,00,000 - ₹60,00,000
Microsoft
₹22,00,000 - ₹50,00,000
Amazon
₹20,00,000 - ₹45,00,000
Flipkart
₹18,00,000 - ₹40,00,000
TCS
₹3,50,000 - ₹12,00,000
Infosys
₹3,60,000 - ₹14,00,000
Wipro
₹3,50,000 - ₹13,00,000
Software Engineer Salary by City
Location plays a key role in determining salary. Metro cities with higher cost of living and more tech companies offer 15-30% higher packages.
Skills That Boost Software Engineer Salary
Professionals with these in-demand skills earn 20-40% more than their peers. Include these in your resume to target higher-paying roles.
Resume tip: Include these skills in your resume's skills section AND naturally within your experience bullet points. ATS systems scan for keyword frequency and context.
How to Negotiate a Higher Software Engineer Salary
Most Software Engineer professionals leave 10-30% salary on the table by not negotiating. Here are proven strategies to maximize your offer.
Research before the interview
Use this salary data to know the market rate. If offered below ₹8,50,000, you have data to counter.
Never share your current salary first
When asked, redirect: 'I'm looking for a role in the range of X-Y based on my skills and market rates.' Let them make the first offer.
Negotiate the total package, not just base
Include joining bonus, annual bonus, stock options (ESOPs), relocation allowance, and notice period buyout in your negotiation.
Get competing offers
Having 2-3 offers gives you the strongest negotiating position. Companies will match or beat competing packages.
Time your job switch strategically
Switch during appraisal season (March-April) or after a strong performance review. Use your increment as leverage for a higher base at the new company.
Build high-demand skills
Skills like Java, Python, JavaScript command premium salaries. Invest 6-12 months in upskilling before switching.
Common mistake: Accepting the first offer without negotiating. 87% of employers expect candidates to negotiate. You won't lose an offer by asking professionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary of a software engineer in India?
The average salary of a software engineer in India is ₹8,50,000 per annum. Freshers typically start at ₹3.5-6 LPA, while senior engineers at top companies can earn ₹25-60 LPA.
Which company pays the highest salary to software engineers in India?
Google, Microsoft, and Amazon pay the highest salaries to software engineers in India, with packages ranging from ₹20-60 LPA for experienced engineers.
How to increase software engineer salary?
Build expertise in high-demand skills (cloud, AI/ML, system design), get relevant certifications, contribute to open source, negotiate during job switches, and target product companies over service companies.
Build Your Software Engineer Resume — Target Higher Salary
Get an ATS-optimized resume with the right keywords, quantified achievements, and skills to land ₹25,00,000+ packages.