Computer and Information Research Scientists vs. Software Developers: Who Earns More?
Computer and Information Research Scientists out-earn Software Developers by $4K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Computer and Information Research Scientists land at $140,300 and Software Developers at $135,980. The education gap is real: computer and information research scientist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while software developer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Computer and Information Research Scientists is Oregon ($206,220); for Software Developers it's California ($174,410).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Computer and Information Research Scientists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Computer and Information Research Scientists or Software Developers?
Computer and Information Research Scientists earn more nationally. The median is $140,300 for Computer and Information Research Scientists versus $135,980 for Software Developers, a difference of $4K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Computer and Information Research Scientists or Software Developers?
Computer and Information Research Scientists has the better 10-year outlook at 19.7% projected growth, compared to 15.8% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Computer and Information Research Scientists or Software Developers?
Computer and Information Research Scientists typically requires bachelor's degree. Software Developers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Computer and Information Research Scientists get paid the most?
Oregon is the top-paying state for Computer and Information Research Scientists at $206,220/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Computer and Information Research Scientists vs. Software Developers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Oregon, Computer and Information Research Scientists earn $206,220 vs. $142,720 for Software Developers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.