Game Programmer salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Game Programmer in United States is approximately 78,284 USD (78,710 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 Game Programmer do?

A game programmer is responsible for developing and implementing software programs that create video games. They have a deep understanding of programming languages and use their skills to design, code, and debug game applications. Game programmers collaborate with game designers, artists, and other members of the development team to bring the game concept to life. They work on various aspects of game development, including graphics, physics, artificial intelligence, user interfaces, and multiplayer functionality. Game programmers also optimize code for performance and memory usage, ensuring smooth gameplay experiences.

Skills: Game Programmer, Software Development, Video Games, Programming Languages, Game Development, Code Optimization
Job industry: Software development

How much does Game Programmer make?

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


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Game Programmer a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Game Programmer 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 Game Programmer?

High salary for Game Programmer would be somewhere between 86,112 USD and 113,512 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Game Programmer in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 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: 78,284 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 6,524 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,505 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 38 USD per hour
By working as Game Programmer a person can save up to 4,279 USD per month or 51,350 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 United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Game Programmer

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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