Computer Programmer Salary in Rapid City
Writes, tests, and maintains code that runs software systems and applications.
Rapid City ranks #510 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer programmer pay. Entry-level salaries here are $5,118 below the national average.
Rapid City vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $56,202 | $61,320 | $-5,118 | -8.3% |
| Level II | $63,544 | $78,293 | $-14,749 | -18.8% |
| Level III (Mid) | $70,866 | $95,267 | $-24,401 | -25.6% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $78,208 | $112,240 | $-34,032 | -30.3% |
Other metros in South Dakota
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| East South Dakota | $54,662 | $81,702 | $72,779 |
| West South Dakota | $55,848 | $71,094 | $66,061 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average computer programmer salary in Rapid City?
The average computer programmer salary in Rapid City is $70,949 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Rapid City at rank #510 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.
What do entry-level computer programmers earn in Rapid City?
Entry-level computer programmers (Level I) in Rapid City earn $56,202 per year. Level II (early career) earns $63,544, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does Rapid City compare to the national average for computer programmer salaries?
Rapid City ranks #510 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer programmer pay. Entry-level salaries here are $5,118 below the national average. The national average computer programmer salary is $95,436, while Rapid City workers average $70,949 — a difference of -26% 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.