Computer Programmer Salary in Cleveland, OH: $91,839 (2024)
Official 2024 BLS Data | $44.15/hour | $60,490 - $128,239 range
Median Annual Salary
$91,839
Hourly Rate
$44.15
/hour
Jobs in Area
199
employed
Compare to Other Cities
See All →Cleveland, OH
$91,839
San Jose, CA
$136,916
in San Jose, CA
Computer Programmer Salary Range in Cleveland, OH
Annual Salary Range
$60k
10th percentile
$77k
25th
$110k
75th
$128k
90th percentile
Salary Breakdown by Percentile
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $60,490 | $29.08 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,987 | $37.01 |
| Median (50th Percentile) | $91,839 | $44.15 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,284 | $53.02 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $128,239 | $61.65 |
| Average (Mean) | $97,596 | $46.92 |
Computer Programmer Market Insights for Cleveland, OH
Compensation Overview
Computer Programmer compensation in Cleveland, OH aligns with regional expectations. The salary range from $60,490 to $128,239 provides a clear picture of earning potential at different career stages.
Local Market Context
Cleveland, OH offers competitive compensation that aligns closely with national benchmarks. The Ohio economy supports a diverse range of industries, providing stable employment opportunities across multiple sectors.
Career Outlook
The Computer Programmer profession offers diverse career opportunities across industries. Professional development and continuous learning are key factors in advancing within this field. With a 112% salary range from entry-level to top earners, there is substantial room for financial growth as you advance in your career.
Tips for Increasing Your Salary
- •Develop specialized expertise to command higher compensation—top earners make 40% more than median salaries
- •Build a professional network through industry associations and local business groups
- •Pursue relevant certifications or advanced education to demonstrate expertise
-7%
vs National Avg
-9%
vs State Avg
112%
Salary Range
199
Jobs in Area
Career Path & Salary Progression
Typical Computer Programmer salary growth in Cleveland, OH based on experience level.
Entry Level
0-2 years10th percentile
$60,490
/year
Early Career
2-5 years25th percentile
$76,987
/year
Mid Career
5-10 years50th percentile
$91,839
/year
Senior
10-15 years75th percentile
$110,284
/year
Expert
15+ years90th percentile
$128,239
/year
Next Career Steps
Common career progressions from Computer Programmer:
Note: Career progression and salary growth vary based on company size, industry, skills, and performance. These estimates use percentile data from the BLS as a general guide for typical career paths.
Computer Programmer Job Market in Cleveland, OH
Where Computer Programmers Work
Computer Programmers work across multiple industries including corporations, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and consulting firms. Each sector offers different compensation structures and career trajectories.
Local Employment Landscape
Employment in this occupation is more limited in Cleveland, OH compared to larger metros. Professionals may find opportunities concentrated among fewer employers, making employer research and networking particularly valuable.
Types of Employers Hiring
Large Corporations
Typically offer comprehensive benefits, structured advancement, and competitive base salaries with bonus potential
Small to Medium Businesses
May provide more responsibility earlier in your career, flexible work arrangements, and equity opportunities
Government Agencies
Known for job security, excellent benefits packages, pension plans, and work-life balance
Professional Services Firms
Provide client exposure, rapid skill development, and often above-market compensation for top performers
Skills That Increase Earning Potential
Job Search Strategy for Cleveland, OH
- •Research major employers in the Cleveland-Elyria area and follow them on LinkedIn for job alerts
- •Join local professional associations for networking and job leads specific to Ohio
- •Tailor your salary expectations based on the Cleveland, OH market rate of $91,839
- •Consider roles at varying experience levels—entry positions start at $60,490 in this market
Computer Programmer Career Overview in Cleveland, OH
The job market for Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH is emerging, with approximately 199 professionals employed across the metropolitan area. This represents a growing presence of Computer Programmer positions, reflecting the region's economic base and employer diversity in Cleveland, OH. Compensation aligns closely with national benchmarks, indicating a balanced supply-demand dynamic in this market.
Cleveland, OH's diverse economy supports technology roles across multiple sectors including healthcare, education, government, technology, manufacturing, and professional services. Major employers in Ohio range from large corporations and hospital systems to mid-size regional firms and growing startups. This employer diversity provides career stability and mobility, as professionals can advance their careers without necessarily relocating. The mix of public and private sector opportunities also creates varied compensation structures, with some employers offering lower base salaries but stronger benefits and job security.
The growth outlook for Computer Programmer positions in Cleveland, OH is projected to remain stable with opportunities tied to local economic growth and industry trends. With 199 current positions and a median salary of $91,839, the market provides a solid foundation for career development. Professionals who invest in continuing education and stay current with industry developments position themselves for both job security and upward salary mobility. The combination of Cleveland, OH's economic trajectory and broader industry trends suggests that qualified Computer Programmers will continue to find opportunities in this market over the coming years.
Cleveland, OH offers a balanced proposition for Computer Programmers. The cost of living index of 91.5 sits near the national average, meaning the median salary of $91,839 translates to real purchasing power that closely matches the nominal figure. This makes salary comparisons with other similarly-priced metros straightforward. Computer Programmers evaluating Cleveland, OH against peer cities should focus on factors beyond raw salary numbers, including career growth opportunities, industry specialization, commute quality, and lifestyle fit.
The Technology field in Cleveland, OH benefits from the region's broader economic ecosystem. Local industry associations, professional networking groups, and continuing education opportunities through area universities and community colleges help Computer Programmers stay connected and advance their careers. Ohio's business incentive programs and workforce development initiatives also play a role in attracting employers and creating positions. For Computer Programmers early in their career, Cleveland, OH offers the chance to build a professional network in a market where individual contributions are often more visible than in the largest metros, potentially accelerating career progression.
Computer Programmer Compensation Deep Dive in Cleveland, OH
The salary range for Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH spans from $60,490 at the entry level (10th percentile) to $128,239 for top earners (90th percentile), a spread of $67,749. This 112% differential reflects the significant impact that experience, specialization, credentials, and employer type have on compensation in this field. The median salary of $91,839 sits at the midpoint of the market, representing what a Computer Programmer with moderate experience and standard qualifications can expect. The 25th percentile ($76,987) typically corresponds to early-career professionals with 1-3 years of experience, while the 75th percentile ($110,284) reflects seasoned professionals with specialized skills or management responsibilities.
Base salary tells only part of the compensation story for Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH. Total compensation packages commonly include health insurance (valued at $6,000-$15,000 annually for employer contributions), retirement plan matching (typically 3-6% of salary, worth $3,674 per year at the median), paid time off (averaging 15-20 days), and in some cases performance bonuses, stock options, or professional development allowances. When evaluating job offers, Computer Programmers should request a total compensation breakdown. A position paying $76,987 with strong benefits may deliver more value than one paying $91,839 with minimal perks.
Cost of living directly impacts how far a Computer Programmer's salary goes in Cleveland, OH. With a local cost-of-living index of 91.5 (where 100 equals the national average), the median salary of $91,839 provides purchasing power equivalent to approximately $100,370 in an average-cost U.S. city. This favorable cost structure means Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH enjoy more disposable income than the base salary suggests. Housing, groceries, and services all cost less here, amplifying the value of each dollar earned.
Negotiating Computer Programmer compensation in Cleveland, OH requires market awareness. The gap between the 25th and 75th percentiles ($76,987 to $110,284) represents the most common negotiation range. Candidates with in-demand certifications, niche expertise, or competing offers have the strongest leverage. In this market, there may be room to push offers closer to national benchmarks, especially for candidates willing to reference out-of-market salary data. Asking for a salary review after 6-12 months, signing bonuses, or additional PTO are effective alternatives when base salary flexibility is limited. On an hourly basis, Computer Programmers in this market earn between $29 and $62 per hour, with the median at $44.
Computer Programmer Career Path & Growth in Cleveland, OH
The career trajectory for Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH shows significant earning potential over time. Entry-level professionals start around $60,490, while top earners reach $128,239, representing a 2.1x increase from start to peak. This progression typically unfolds over 10-20 years and is driven by accumulating expertise, taking on leadership responsibilities, developing specializations, and building a professional reputation. In Cleveland, OH's technology market, professionals who demonstrate consistent performance improvements and take on increasingly complex projects advance most quickly. Mid-career transitions into management, consulting, or entrepreneurship can also accelerate earnings beyond the standard progression curve.
Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH who are exploring career pivots or complementary roles should consider positions such as related professionals in the same field, supervisory roles, and cross-functional positions. These adjacent occupations often share transferable skills and can offer different compensation structures, work environments, or growth trajectories. In Cleveland, OH's job market, professionals who develop cross-functional capabilities spanning multiple related roles tend to be more resilient to market shifts and better positioned for leadership opportunities. Lateral moves can also provide valuable perspective that strengthens a professional's long-term career trajectory.
The skills most in demand for Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH include industry-specific technical competencies, communication and collaboration skills, analytical thinking, and adaptability to new tools and processes. Employers in Cleveland, OH value professionals who combine deep subject-matter expertise with the ability to work effectively across teams and adapt to evolving industry requirements. Pursuing relevant professional certifications can provide a measurable salary boost of 5-15% and signal commitment to the field. Continuous learning through industry conferences, online courses, and professional associations helps Computer Programmers stay competitive in Cleveland, OH's evolving job market.
More Questions About Computer Programmer Salaries in Cleveland, OH
What is the starting salary for a Computer Programmer in Cleveland, OH?
Entry-level Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH (10th percentile) earn approximately $60,490 per year, or about $5,041 per month. The 25th percentile, representing early-career professionals with some experience, earns $76,987. These figures reflect base salary only; new hires may also receive benefits worth an additional 20-30% of base pay. Building specialized skills and pursuing relevant certifications are the fastest paths to moving beyond entry-level compensation.
How much do experienced Computer Programmers make in Cleveland, OH?
Experienced Computer Programmers at the 75th percentile earn $110,284 annually in Cleveland, OH, while top earners at the 90th percentile make $128,239. The jump from median ($91,839) to 75th percentile represents a 20% increase, typically achieved through 5-10 years of experience, management responsibilities, or specialized expertise. Senior professionals who combine technical depth with leadership skills are best positioned for top-tier compensation.
Is Cleveland, OH a good city for Computer Programmers?
Cleveland, OH offers competitive compensation that closely tracks national averages. With 199 Computer Programmer positions in the metro area, the market is smaller but can offer less competition and more personal career development. Quality of life, industry presence, and long-term career trajectory should all factor into your evaluation alongside salary data.
How does Computer Programmer pay in Cleveland, OH compare to the national average?
The median Computer Programmer salary in Cleveland, OH is $91,839, which is 7% lower than the national median of $98,670. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective purchasing power is $100,370, which provides a more accurate comparison. Within Ohio, Cleveland, OH ranks below some peer metros for this occupation.
What benefits do Computer Programmers typically receive in Cleveland, OH?
Beyond base salary, Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH typically receive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement contributions (401k matching of 3-6%), paid time off (15-25 days annually), and sometimes performance bonuses or profit sharing. The total value of benefits often adds 25-35% on top of base salary, meaning a Computer Programmer earning the median of $91,839 may receive total compensation of $119,391 or more. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement, professional development budgets, flexible work arrangements, and wellness programs.
What skills are most in demand for Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH?
Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH who command the highest salaries typically combine core technical competencies with strong communication skills, analytical thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to professional development. Employers in this market particularly value professionals who can demonstrate measurable impact, whether through revenue generation, cost savings, process improvements, or team leadership. Certifications relevant to the Technology field can increase earning potential by 5-15%. Staying current with industry trends and emerging technologies is essential for career advancement and salary growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
The median computer programmer salary in Cleveland, OH is $91,839 per year ($44.15/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $60,490 for entry-level positions to $128,239 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.
Entry-level computer programmers in Cleveland, OH typically start at around $60,490 per year ($29.08/hour), representing the 10th percentile. New graduates and those with less than 2 years of experience fall into this range. With experience and skill development, salaries can progress to the median of $91,839 within 3-5 years.
Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH earn a median hourly wage of $44.15 per hour. Hourly rates range from $29.08/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $61.65/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $60,490 and $128,239.
The median computer programmer salary of $91,839 in Cleveland, OH is slightly below the national median of $98,670 (6.9% lower). The cost of living is also 9% below average. This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of computer programmers in the area earn more and half earn less.
Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH earn slightly below the national average. The local median salary of $91,839 is 6.9% lower than the national median of $98,670. The cost of living is also 9% below average. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $100,370.
The top 10% of computer programmers in Cleveland, OH earn $128,239 or more per year ($61.65/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $110,284, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.
Key skills that can boost computer programmer salary in Cleveland, OH include: Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, Problem-solving and critical thinking, Technical proficiency relevant to the field, Attention to detail and organizational skills. Professionals with these skills often earn above the median of $91,839, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($110,284) or higher. Years of relevant experience
Cleveland, OH has a specialized job market for computer programmers, with approximately 199 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $91,839 is slightly below the national average. The cost of living is also 9% below average. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.
Compare your computer programmer salary to these Cleveland, OH benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $60,490, 25th percentile: $76,987, 50th percentile (median): $91,839, 75th percentile: $110,284, 90th percentile (top earners): $128,239. If you earn more than $91,839, you're above average for the area.
Beyond the $91,839 median base salary, computer programmers in Cleveland, OH typically receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement plans (401k with employer matching), paid time off (15-25 days), and potentially bonuses or profit-sharing. Total compensation including benefits typically adds 25-40% to base salary value.
Experienced computer programmers with 5-10 years in Cleveland, OH typically earn $110,284 (75th percentile) to $128,239 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $128,239. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $91,839.
Computer Programmers in Cleveland, OH can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($60,490) to median ($91,839) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($128,239) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $67,749 over a career.
Data Source & Methodology
Official government statistics you can trust
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Program
Visit Official BLS WebsiteData Year
2024
2 Years Old
Geographic Area
Cleveland-Elyria
Metropolitan Statistical Area
Occupation Code
15-1299
SOC Classification
Sample Size
199
Employees Surveyed
How This Data Is Collected
The OEWS program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations across all metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. Approximately 1.1 million establishments are surveyed over a three-year period, representing the most comprehensive wage data available for the U.S. labor market.
Note: Percentile wages represent actual reported wages and may differ from individual compensation packages that include benefits, bonuses, and equity.
Last updated: January 23, 2026
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Computer Programmer in Cleveland, OH
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Median: $91,839/yr
How Cleveland, OH Compares
vs National Average
$98,670
vs Ohio Average
$101,231
Cost-of-Living Adjusted
$100,370
Cost of living in Cleveland, OH is 8.5% below the national average.
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