Principal Software Architect salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Principal Software Architect in South Africa is approximately 413,156 ZAR (20,775 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 Principal Software Architect do?

The occupation of a Principal Software Architect involves designing and implementing the overall software architecture for a project or organization. They are responsible for creating a high-level plan that outlines the structure, components, and interactions of the software system. They collaborate with stakeholders to understand their requirements and translate them into technical specifications. The Principal Software Architect also leads a team of software developers, guiding them throughout the development process and ensuring adherence to best practices and architectural principles.

Skills: Principal Software Architect, Software Architecture, Design, Implementation, Technical Specifications, Team Leadership
Job industry: Technology

How much does Principal Software Architect make?

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


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Principal Software Architect a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Principal Software Architect is a very well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Principal Software Architect?

High salary for Principal Software Architect would be somewhere between 454,472 ZAR and 599,076 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Principal Software Architect 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: 413,156 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 34,430 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 7,945 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 199 ZAR per hour
By working as Principal Software Architect a person can save up to 1,460 USD per month or 17,521 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 Principal Software Architect

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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