Computer Programmer Salary in Madison

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

Ranks #359 of 530 metros·Wisconsin·$88,192 avg

Madison ranks #359 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer programmer pay. Entry-level salaries here are $2,182 above the national average.

Level I
$63,502
vs national avg: +4%
Level II
$75,774
vs national avg: -3%
Level III
$88,067
vs national avg: -8%
Level IV
$100,339
vs national avg: -11%

Madison vs National Average

LevelThis MetroNational AvgDifference% Change
Level I (Entry)$63,502$61,320+$2,182+3.6%
Level II$75,774$78,293$-2,519-3.2%
Level III (Mid)$88,067$95,267$-7,200-7.6%
Level IV (Senior)$100,339$112,240$-11,901-10.6%

Other metros in Wisconsin

Metro AreaLevel ILevel IVAverage
Appleton$63,877$116,334$99,029
Western Wisconsin$66,435$110,906$96,221
South Central Wisconsin$62,026$111,675$95,285
Green Bay$59,862$110,822$93,995
Fond du Lac$61,859$104,936$90,730

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average computer programmer salary in Madison?

The average computer programmer salary in Madison is $88,192 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Madison at rank #359 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.

What do entry-level computer programmers earn in Madison?

Entry-level computer programmers (Level I) in Madison earn $63,502 per year. Level II (early career) earns $75,774, reflecting growing independence and experience.

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

Madison ranks #359 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer programmer pay. Entry-level salaries here are $2,182 above the national average. The national average computer programmer salary is $95,436, while Madison workers average $88,192 — a difference of -8% 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.