Computer Programmer Salary: Global Insights and Vietnam Earnings

Key Takeaways:

• The computer programmer salary can reach an average of $95,000 annually (across all levels) in the US and about $9,900 in Vietnam. See how these numbers compare to other regions around the world and to different fields.
• Becoming a programmer can take anywhere from a few months to several years. Join ERA to explore key skills and degrees that can increase earning potential in programming jobs worldwide.

What Does a Computer Programmer Do?

A programmer is responsible for writing, maintaining, and optimizing source code to ensure software, applications, or systems function. For this position, programming languages like Python, Java, and C++ are needed to turn ideas into something tangible.

How much do programmers make? Source: ciit.edu.ph

Examples of common programming jobs include Software Development, Web Development, and System Programming. The typical duties of a computer programmer are:

• Working with software development teams and engineers to meet project goals.
• Understanding customers’ needs to propose and develop software solutions.
• Ensuring software performs as expected by identifying and resolving errors.
• Meeting security, performance, and reliability benchmarks.
• Update existing software to improve functionalities and integrate user suggestions.

Nowadays, in most industries, a big role is played by programmers. In the financial sector, for example, they develop automated trading systems and personal financial management software. In the healthcare industry, they create management systems for hospitals and analyze medical images with special tools.

A financial programmer. Source: devx.com

With the rapid expansion of AI, blockchain, and big data, the demand for skilled programmers has accelerated at an explosive rate. Gartner predicts that generative AI will require 80% of the technical workforce to upskill by 2027. Associated with this surge are lucrative career paths to very competitive salaries.

Global Overview of Computer Programmer Salaries

• Global Average Salary:

According to Glassdoor, the average annual computer programming salary in various regions of the world, in USD, is as follows:

In North America, it is the US with an average annual salary of $95,000 and Canada $50,000. 

In Europe, Germany, with an average of $63,000 yearly; Ireland, with $61,000; and Spain, with $28,000.

In Asia, China pays $36,000 per year, while India provides $6,100 per year and Vietnam $9,900 per year.

How much does a computer programmer make? Source: inc.com

• Salary Factors:

Coursera’s overview and statistical analysis show that some of the main factors affecting a computer coding salary are:

One of the biggest factors is experience. The more experience a programmer has, the more they will be paid. For example, programmers at a senior level can earn upwards of $83,000 annually with more than 7 years of experience. An entry-level programmer earns only over $62,000.

The term “computer programmer” is so broad. It holds within itself a lot of specializations, and salaries vary depending on the skill set. For example, web developers make over $81,000. Meanwhiles, Python developers working with more complicated programming languages make over $110,000.

Location affects a computer programmer salary as well. Programmers in areas with a higher cost of living or with a concentration of major corporations often earn more. For instance, Washington offers wages of over $89,000, while Oregon’s average salary exceeds $77,000.

Industry is another important factor. Programmers working in software publishing typically earn more than $106,000. Meanwhile, those in manufacturing make over $101,000.

Several factors influence a computer programmer salary. Source: thoughtco.com

• High vs. Low-Income Countries:

In countries like the United States, programmers can earn nearly $100,000 annually. This is driven by the high demand for IT professionals, supported by strong economies and advanced industries.

Conversely, in nations like India and Vietnam, a computer programmer salary is typically under $10,000 per year. These represent the different economic conditions, relatively lower standard of living, and the multi-faceted role of outsourcing.

Computer Programmer Salary in Vietnam

• Average Salary in Vietnam:

According to the report on salary in 2024 by TopDev, a fresher programmer earns about $480 per month. Salaries increase after a few years of experience. For instance, a senior-level programmer with five years of experience earns an average of $1,700 per month. Those in Director or Architect roles can earn up to $2,590 per month.

The average salary of Vietnamese programmers by years of experience. Source: topdev.vn

• Growth Potential:

New technologies are the drivers for Vietnam’s technology sector in increasing the computer programmer salary. Programmers specializing in Cloud technologies, AI/ML, and DevOps have a salary bracket ranging from $1,500 to $1,900 per month.

AI and Data Analytics-related specialized positions report their income as stable in the bracket of $1,200 to $2,000 per month. 

• City vs. Rural Pay Disparities:

It also points out big gaps in the software programmer salary among cities. Major cities often have higher wages due to higher living costs and high concentrations of technology companies.

In Ho Chi Minh City, 32.10% receive a monthly income of $1,600 or higher. In Hanoi, this number is 20.55%. For the city of Da Nang, this number shrinks to only 11.90%. Meanwhile, other provinces and towns have lower salaries that range between $600 and $1,500 a month.

Average computer programmer salary in major cities compared to other areas in Vietnam. Source: topdev.vn

• Demand for Programmers:

The demand for programmers in Vietnam is really on the rise. Growing technology companies, startups, and foreign investment alike drive it. According to the Ministry of Information and Communications, Vietnam will need at least 500,000 more tech workers by 2025.

Government-backed, Vietnam is becoming a key player in Southeast Asia’s tech startup ecosystem. It ranks third in the region for startup projects. In 2023, technology startups attracted $529 million in investments, primarily in education, healthcare, and e-commerce.

The other driving force is the Digital Transformation of Vietnam, especially concerning finance, banking, and public services. The digital economy is expected to grow from US$30 billion in 2023 to US$43 billion by 2025. As more enterprises adopt advanced technologies like AI and cloud computing, requirements for professional programmers also grow.

Do Computer Programmers Make Good Money?

• Global Perspective: 

Programmers are among the best-paid professionals in any industry around the world. In the United States alone, the average yearly compensation of Computer Professions has outperformed Business and Finance, according to Statista. It is also higher than that of Educational Guidance.

Median annual wage in the United States in 2023 by major occupational groups. Source: Statista

It also informs us that, per Glassdoor, computer programmers have an average salary of $99,000 annually. Meanwhile, retail workers average about $66,000 annually. Therefore, the profession of programming comes with good financial competitiveness.

• Vietnam Perspective:

The surge in digital transformation has positioned programming as one of the most sought-after career paths in Vietnam. In 2023, programmers were listed as the 9th most attractive occupation in terms of salary, surpassing roles like university lecturers.

Experienced programmers can earn $1,200 or more monthly, with some senior or specialized roles exceeding $2,000. Conversely, tech roles requiring less expertise like  IT Helpdesk or Site Reliability Engineer, generally pay around $1,000 per month.

• Conclusion:

Computer programming is undoubtedly a financially rewarding career, both globally and in Vietnam. The global perspective shows high salaries, especially in advanced economies. The Vietnam-specific view also highlights a significant rise in programming salaries due to the growing demand for tech talent.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Programmer?

• Education Path:

The traditional path to becoming a programmer is earning a bachelor’s degree in information technology or computer science. It offers foundational knowledge in coding, debugging, and testing with exposure to programming languages like Python and Java.

A computer programming class. Source: hyperiondev.com

For instance, the University of London provides a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. This program has an internationally recognized curriculum. In Vietnam, RMIT University offers a Bachelor of Information Technology. This qualification is designed to meet the demands of both the local and international IT industries.

Those who are in a rush to enter the profession use coding boot camps and online courses, which offer faster ways of learning. Such options are appropriate for those who need to acquire specific skills quickly or who need higher earning potential.

For example, Coursera’s Learn to Program: The Fundamentals is designed to have beginners create some basics in programming. For advanced learners, other challenges would include the Genome Assembly Programming Challenge from the University of California.

• Learning Timeline:

The time to become competent depends on the path one chooses and one’s dedication. A full-time bachelor’s degree will take approximately 3-4 years, while a certificate will take just a few months.

IBM AI Engineering Professional Certificate. Source: github.com

For instance, an IBM AI Developer Professional Certificate can be earned in six months. Learners are equipped with skills in AI technologies, generative AI models, and the creation of AI-infused applications.

• Real-World Skills: 

Success in programming goes beyond theoretical knowledge. Hands-on experience fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork—essential for career growth. For example, to advance to a lead position, programmers need to refine their leadership and client negotiation abilities.

Continuous learning is necessary with rapidly changing technologies. Advanced degrees and certifications will validate skill development and often lead to higher salaries. According to Salary.com, the average median salary for a senior programmer with a bachelor’s degree was $111,993. Those holding master’s degrees averaged an annual income of $112,850.

Key Skills That Influence Computer Programmer Salaries

Programmers proficient in multiple programming languages like Python, C++, Ruby, and PowerShell often enjoy higher earning potential. Their skill in diverse languages allows them to take on various tasks, ranging from backend development to creating mobile applications.

Ruby programming language. Source: gojilabs.com

Expertise in complex databases like PostgreSQL, MongoDB, and Oracle Database is highly sought after in the tech industry. Proficiency in frameworks like Apache Spark, Apache Kafka, and Hadoop adds significant value to a programmer’s skill set. These skills often lead to higher salaries due to the strong demand for data management and processing roles.

Advanced fields like AI and ML stand out with exceptional salary prospects. Their complexity and the scarcity of skilled professionals contribute to this. For instance, the average computer programmer salary in the US is $99,000 per year. Meanwhile, an AI Software Developer can earn up to $139,000 annually.

Below are reputable courses from leading institutions that can help programmers enhance their skills and improve their earning potential:

• For beginners:
  • Python for Everybody by the University of Michigan.
  • Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate.
• For intermediate programmers:
  • HTML, CSS & JavaScript for Web Developers by Johns Hopkins University.
  • Advanced Programming in Kotlin by Meta.
• For advanced programmers:
  • Linux System Programming and Introduction to Buildroot and Dynamic Programming and Greedy Algorithms by the University of Colorado Boulder.

Career Progression and Opportunities for Computer Programmers

• Junior to Senior Roles:

Computer programmers usually start working as Junior Developers. They will learn the basics of coding, debugging, and how to work in a team.

If technical and soft skills are developed, then they become Senior Developers, Leaders, or Project Managers. These roles involve added responsibilities for project management, mentoring freshers, and contributing to organizational decisions.

The programming field offers extensive opportunities for career growth and advancement. Source: tuoitre.vn

• Freelancing and Remote Opportunities:

Many programmers choose to work as independent contractors or freelancers, taking on projects globally and setting their own schedules.

Remote work is also common, allowing programmers to collaborate with international teams without relocating. This flexibility often enhances income potential by enabling access to a broader market and higher-paying opportunities.

• International Opportunities:

Due to the global nature of this industry, Vietnamese programmers are increasingly gaining access to international clients and companies. Employer of Record exposes Vietnamese programmers to hiring by multinational corporations without the conventional obstacles to their employment. Besides, freelance platforms such as Upwork and Toptal give opportunities to work with international clients. Such opportunities often come with exposure to state-of-the-art technologies and competitive salaries compared to local wages.