Cobol Developer salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Cobol Developer in South Africa is approximately 195,734 ZAR (9,802 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Cobol Developer do?

A COBOL developer is a professional who specializes in programming using the COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) programming language. They are responsible for designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications that are primarily used in business and financial systems. COBOL developers work closely with business analysts, system analysts, and other stakeholders to understand the requirements and develop efficient solutions. Their main tasks include writing COBOL code, debugging and troubleshooting issues, performing unit testing, and documenting the software development process. They may also be involved in system integration, performance optimization, and software maintenance activities. COBOL developers need to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as a good understanding of business processes and data structures.

Skills: COBOL developer, programming, software development, business systems, financial systems, coding
Job industry: Information technology

How much does Cobol Developer make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Cobol Developer a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Cobol Developer is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Cobol Developer?

High salary for Cobol Developer would be somewhere between 215,307 ZAR and 283,814 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Cobol Developer in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 195,734 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 16,311 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 3,764 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 94 ZAR per hour
By working as Cobol Developer a person can save up to 546 USD per month or 6,548 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Cobol Developer

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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