Microsoft Software Engineer Salary Guide

Updated 2026-05-22 · Total compensation by level including base, stock, and bonus

LevelBase SalaryStock/yrBonusTotal Comp
59 (SDE) $120,000 $25,000 $12,000 $157,000
61 (SDE II) $155,000 $65,000 $15,000 $235,000
63 (Senior SDE) $190,000 $130,000 $25,000 $345,000
65 (Principal SDE) $225,000 $250,000 $35,000 $510,000

Total Compensation by Level

59 (SDE)
$157,000
61 (SDE II)
$235,000
63 (Senior SDE)
$345,000
65 (Principal SDE)
$510,000

Negotiation Tip

Microsoft's base salary bands overlap significantly with L+1. Use competing offers to push into the higher end of the band — recruiters have discretion.

Equity & Vesting Details

Vesting Schedule
4-year even vest (25/25/25/25)
Refresher Policy
Strong annual refreshers at 63+, tied to review score