Software Engineer Salary in Tokyo (2026)
Quick Answer
How much does software engineer in Tokyo make?
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In 2026, Software Engineers in Tokyo earn between ¥4,500,000 and ¥29,900,000 annually, with a median salary of ¥9,500,000. Compensation varies based on experience, role, and company.
Key Facts
- Median salary for Software Engineers in Tokyo is ¥9,500,000.
- Entry-level positions start at approximately ¥4,500,000 annually.
- Senior roles can earn up to ¥29,900,000 per year.
- Tokyo's cost of living is significantly lower than New York City.
- Top hiring companies include Mercari, LINEヤフー, and PayPay.
Salary by Experience Level
- Junior (0–3 years): ¥4,500,000 – ¥6,500,000
- Mid-level (3–7 years): ¥6,500,000 – ¥9,100,000
- Senior/Lead (7+ years): ¥9,100,000 – ¥29,900,000
How Tokyo Compares
Tokyo's cost of living index is 86.96, ranking it 13th globally. Compared to New York City, Tokyo is about 143% less expensive in living costs. For instance, a single person in NYC spends approximately $4,184 monthly, whereas in Tokyo, it's around $1,723. Source
Skills That Command Premium
- Backend Development: High demand for scalable and efficient server-side applications.
- Frontend Development: Expertise in creating user-friendly interfaces.
- Full Stack Development: Versatility in handling both frontend and backend tasks.
- DevOps: Skills in continuous integration and deployment.
- Machine Learning: Proficiency in AI and data-driven solutions.
Work Culture & Benefits
Japanese companies often offer:
- Bonuses: Typically paid twice a year, significantly boosting annual income.
- Pension Plans: Contributions to national pension schemes.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage as part of employment benefits.
- Paid Leave: Generous vacation policies, including national holidays.
- Professional Development: Opportunities for skill enhancement and certifications.
Top Hiring Companies
Career Advice
To maximize earning potential in Tokyo, focus on developing in-demand skills like backend development and machine learning. Additionally, consider opportunities at top companies known for competitive compensation packages.
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Software Engineer Insights — Tokyo
Software Engineer salaries in Tokyo range from ¥4,500,000 to ¥29,900,000, a 267% spread that reflects significant variation based on experience level, specialization, and company size. The median of ¥9,500,000 sits below the midpoint, suggesting more positions cluster toward the entry-to-mid-level end of the range.
Tokyo's cost of living index of 58/100 represents moderate living costs. At a median salary of ¥9,500,000, software engineer professionals here enjoy solid purchasing power relative to higher-cost tech hubs.
The hiring landscape for software engineer in Tokyo is anchored by employers like Mercari, LINEヤフー, and PayPay, along with 2 other notable employers. Larger employers in this market typically offer compensation at the upper end of the range, often supplemented with equity, signing bonuses, and comprehensive benefits.
Demand for software engineer in Tokyo centers around expertise in Backend Development, Frontend Development, Full Stack Development, plus 2 other core competencies. Candidates with strong proficiency across these areas tend to command offers closer to the ¥29,900,000 ceiling, and have natural transition paths into roles like Backend Engineer or Frontend Engineer.
Related Roles in Tokyo
Explore salary information for similar positions and compare compensation across different roles.
| Role | Location | Salary Range | Median |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | Stuttgart | €60,000 - €105,000 | €78,000 |
| Software Engineer | Toronto | CA$50,000 - CA$270,000 | CA$128,750 |
| Software Engineer | Boston | $85,967 - $224,209 | $116,207 |
| Senior Software Engineer | Stuttgart | €80,000 - €125,000 | €92,000 |
| Software Engineer | Remote | $80,000 - $200,000 | $130,000 |
| Software Engineer |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Software Engineer in Tokyo?
The median salary for Software Engineers in Tokyo is ¥9,500,000 per year, with ranges depending on experience and role.
How does the cost of living in Tokyo compare to other major cities?
Tokyo's cost of living index is 86.96, making it about 143% less expensive than New York City.
Which companies are top employers for Software Engineers in Tokyo?
Top companies hiring Software Engineers in Tokyo include Mercari, LINEヤフー, PayPay, Rakuten, and MoneyForward.
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Data Source & Methodology
Salary data for software engineer in Tokyo is compiled from multiple verified sources including:
- Public salary reports from major tech employers (FAANG, Fortune 500, and high-growth startups)
- Government labor statistics and occupational wage surveys
- Aggregated self-reported compensation data from verified professionals
- Job posting analysis from major tech job boards and company career pages
All figures represent base salary in JPY and are normalized to annual equivalents. Ranges reflect the 25th to 75th percentile of reported compensation, while median values represent the 50th percentile. Data is updated quarterly to reflect current market conditions.
Last updated: April 2026 | Sample size: Varies by role and location (minimum 30 data points required for publication)