Computer Programmer Salary in Columbus

Writes, tests, and maintains code that runs software systems and applications.

Ranks #157 of 530 metros·Ohio·$100,069 avg

Columbus ranks #157 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer programmer pay. Entry-level salaries here are $3,285 above the national average.

Level I
$64,605
vs national avg: +5%
Level II
$82,243
vs national avg: +5%
Level III
$99,902
vs national avg: +5%
Level IV
$117,541
vs national avg: +5%

Columbus vs National Average

LevelThis MetroNational AvgDifference% Change
Level I (Entry)$64,605$61,320+$3,285+5.4%
Level II$82,243$78,293+$3,950+5.0%
Level III (Mid)$99,902$95,267+$4,635+4.9%
Level IV (Senior)$117,541$112,240+$5,301+4.7%

Other metros in Ohio

Metro AreaLevel ILevel IVAverage
Southern Ohio$64,667$124,384$104,686
Mansfield$61,942$116,106$98,238
Springfield$60,778$114,234$96,595
Eastern Ohio$59,800$113,090$95,514
Cleveland$60,757$109,574$93,475

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average computer programmer salary in Columbus?

The average computer programmer salary in Columbus is $100,069 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Columbus at rank #157 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.

What do entry-level computer programmers earn in Columbus?

Entry-level computer programmers (Level I) in Columbus earn $64,605 per year. Level II (early career) earns $82,243, reflecting growing independence and experience.

How does Columbus compare to the national average for computer programmer salaries?

Columbus ranks #157 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer programmer pay. Entry-level salaries here are $3,285 above the national average. The national average computer programmer salary is $95,436, while Columbus workers average $100,069 — a difference of +5% overall.

Data source: Salary data sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, which surveys employers nationwide to collect wage data by occupation and geography. The four experience levels reflect DOL standardized tiers. Data reflects the most recently published survey cycle. SOC code: 15-1251.