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The differences between computer programmers and software programmers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 6-8 years to become both a computer programmer and a software programmer. Additionally, a software programmer has an average salary of $71,612, which is higher than the $70,979 average annual salary of a computer programmer.
The top three skills for a computer programmer include C #, java and javascript. The most important skills for a software programmer are java, javascript, and software development.
| Computer Programmer | Software Programmer | |
| Yearly salary | $70,979 | $71,612 |
| Hourly rate | $34.12 | $34.43 |
| Growth rate | -7% | -7% |
| Number of jobs | 205,491 | 253,235 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 60% | Bachelor's Degree, 69% |
| Average age | 47 | 47 |
| Years of experience | 8 | 8 |
A Computer Programmer is a specialist in writing computer programs as well as mobile applications. In addition to writing and testing code written, they are responsible for installing updates for software, debugging or improving functionality, troubleshooting parts of the program that is not functioning, and rewriting code for computer programs to be compatible in different operating systems. They also work to prevent data leaks and breaches in security by identifying malicious software and building firewalls.
A software programmer is an information technology expert who specializes in programming software and generating codes, ensuring quality and efficiency. In a company setting, they typically perform research and analysis to understand and identify the projects' needs, develop and implement test structures, troubleshoot and resolve issues, write technical instructions, and provide technical support to staff as needed. Most of the time, a software programmer works in a team setting, which requires an active communication line for a smooth workflow.
Computer programmers and software programmers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Computer Programmer | Software Programmer | |
| Average salary | $70,979 | $71,612 |
| Salary range | Between $55,000 And $90,000 | Between $55,000 And $92,000 |
| Highest paying City | Richmond, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | Washington |
| Best paying company | Panaya | |
| Best paying industry | Finance | Technology |
There are a few differences between a computer programmer and a software programmer in terms of educational background:
| Computer Programmer | Software Programmer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 60% | Bachelor's Degree, 69% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Science |
| Most common college | University of Chicago | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Here are the differences between computer programmers' and software programmers' demographics:
| Computer Programmer | Software Programmer | |
| Average age | 47 | 47 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 70.2% Female, 29.8% | Male, 71.3% Female, 28.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 5.1% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.9% Asian, 15.0% White, 66.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% | Black or African American, 4.1% Unknown, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 7.2% Asian, 25.2% White, 58.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 11% | 11% |