Software Engineer Jobs in Vancouver, BC

Vancouver, British Columbia$117,000 - $195,000 CAD/yearFull-time
Last updated: January 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from Canadian Labour Market reports

Software Engineer Salary in Vancouver

Entry Level
$87,750
Average
$117,000 - $195,000
Senior Level
$243,750

Salaries adjusted for Vancouver's cost of living index (130% of national average).

Required Skills

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Software Engineer Job Market in Vancouver

Vancouver offers a competitive job market for Software Engineer professionals. As a major hub for Technology and Film, the city has strong demand for technology & software talent. With high demand and growing growth outlook, qualified Software Engineers can expect competitive salaries and multiple opportunities. Vancouver's growing economy and quality of life attract both local talent and professionals relocating from larger cities.

Top Companies Hiring Software Engineers in Vancouver

AmazonMicrosoftSAPHootsuiteTech giantsFintech startups

Major employers hiring Software Engineers in Vancouver include Amazon, Microsoft, SAP, Hootsuite, and Tech giants, Fintech startups. As a recognized tech hub, Vancouver attracts both global tech giants and innovative startups, offering diverse career paths for Software Engineers.

Software Engineer Salary in Vancouver vs Other Cities

Software Engineer salaries in Vancouver typically range from $117,000 to $195,000 annually. This is comparable to Toronto salaries, though Vancouver's similar cost of living may provide better value.

Cost of Living for Software Engineers in Vancouver

Living in Vancouver as a Software Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,600/month (53% above national average). With Software Engineer salaries starting around $90,000, budgeting carefully for housing is advisable in Vancouver.

130
Cost Index (100 = avg)
675K
Population
Yes
Tech Hub
4+
Major Industries

Commuting as a Software Engineer in Vancouver

Vancouver top-rated SkyTrain system with extensive bus network. Many Software Engineer positions in Vancouver offer remote or hybrid work options, which can significantly reduce commute stress. Key transit tips: SkyTrain is fast and reliable for commuting. Canada Line connects downtown to Richmond and airport.

Best neighborhoods for Software Engineers in Vancouver: Yaletown (Tech corridor with Amazon and startups); Gastown (Historic area with creative tech firms); Mount Pleasant (Emerging tech hub with coworking spaces).

Frequently Asked Questions About Software Engineer Jobs in Vancouver

What is the average Software Engineer salary in Vancouver?

Software Engineer salaries in Vancouver typically range from $117,000 to $195,000 annually, depending on experience and company size. While Vancouver has a higher cost of living, compensation tends to reflect this.

Is Vancouver a good city for Software Engineers?

Vancouver is a major hub for Software Engineer professionals. Technology and Film are the dominant industries, creating consistent demand. The city's population of 675K supports a diverse job market with both established companies and emerging businesses.

What's the cost of living like for Software Engineers in Vancouver?

Vancouver's cost of living index is 130 (national average = 100). Housing costs are above average, so budgeting is important even with good salaries.

What skills are essential for Software Engineer roles?

Key skills for Software Engineer positions include JavaScript, Python, SQL, as well as Git and Problem Solving. Employers particularly value candidates who can demonstrate practical experience with these competencies through projects, certifications, or previous work experience.

What certifications help Software Engineers advance their careers?

Valuable certifications for Software Engineers include AWS Certified, Google Cloud Professional, Kubernetes CKA. These credentials demonstrate expertise and can lead to salary increases of 10-20%. Many Canadian employers offer tuition reimbursement for relevant certifications.

What's the job outlook for Software Engineers in Canada?

The outlook for Software Engineer positions in Canada is growing, with approximately 25% year-over-year growth. There is strong demand for qualified candidates, often resulting in competitive salaries and multiple job offers.

What programming languages are most in-demand for tech jobs in Canada?

Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, and Java consistently rank as the most in-demand programming languages in Canada. Cloud technologies (AWS, Azure, GCP), React/Node.js for web development, and SQL for data work are also highly sought after. The specific requirements vary by role—data scientists lean toward Python, while frontend developers need JavaScript expertise.

Is a computer science degree required for tech jobs in Canada?

While a CS degree is valued, it's not always required. Many Canadian tech companies, including Shopify and Wealthsimple, hire based on skills and portfolio. Coding bootcamp graduates, self-taught developers, and career changers regularly land tech roles. That said, some positions at banks or government may have stricter education requirements.

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