Games Programmer salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Games Programmer in United States is approximately 87,118 USD (87,302 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 Games Programmer do?

A games programmer is responsible for designing and developing computer games. They work closely with game designers to bring their ideas to life by writing code, creating game mechanics, and implementing features. Games programmers use programming languages like C++, Java, or Python to build the game's engine, develop gameplay systems, and handle artificial intelligence. They also collaborate with artists, sound designers, and other team members to integrate graphics, audio, and visual effects into the game. The job of a games programmer requires strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and a deep understanding of computer science principles. They must be able to write efficient and optimized code to ensure smooth gameplay and performance. Additionally, games programmers need to stay updated with the latest technologies and trends in the gaming industry.

Skills: games programmer, game development, coding, computer science, game design, software engineering
Job industry: Software development

How much does Games Programmer make?

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


Want to check how your salary compares? Submit your own salary here

Salary comparison to National average

Is Games Programmer a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Games 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 Games Programmer?

High salary for Games Programmer would be somewhere between 95,830 USD and 126,321 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Games 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: 87,118 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 7,260 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,675 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 42 USD per hour
By working as Games Programmer a person can save up to 4,995 USD per month or 59,942 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 Games 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.

Top 10 highest salaries in United States

Data as of 2025

Random salary:
General teller (23,795 USD per year, pre-tax.)
College career counselor (52,515 USD per year, pre-tax.)
Activities director nursing home (34,611 USD per year, pre-tax.)
Intake specialist (32,756 USD per year, pre-tax.)
Informatics nurse (78,024 USD per year, pre-tax.)

Feedback about these results