Computer User Support Specialists vs. Software Developers: Who Earns More?
Software Developers out-earn Computer User Support Specialists by $74K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Computer User Support Specialists land at $61,860 and Software Developers at $135,980. The education gap is real: computer user support specialist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while software developer programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Computer User Support Specialists is District of Columbia ($80,950); for Software Developers it's California ($174,410).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Computer User Support Specialists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Computer User Support Specialists or Software Developers?
Software Developers earn more nationally. The median is $61,860 for Computer User Support Specialists versus $135,980 for Software Developers, a difference of $74K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Computer User Support Specialists or Software Developers?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
Which requires more education, Computer User Support Specialists or Software Developers?
Computer User Support Specialists typically requires bachelor's degree. Software Developers requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Computer User Support Specialists get paid the most?
District of Columbia is the top-paying state for Computer User Support Specialists at $80,950/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Computer User Support Specialists vs. Software Developers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In District of Columbia, Computer User Support Specialists earn $80,950 vs. $136,880 for Software Developers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.