How Much Money Does a Game Developer Make a Year?

Are you curious about the earning potential of a game developer? The salary of a game developer can vary widely depending on several factors, including experience, location, and the type of company they work for. Let’s dive into the details to give you a comprehensive understanding of what a game developer might earn in a year.

Experience Level

One of the most significant factors influencing a game developer’s salary is their level of experience. According to Glassdoor, the average base salary for a game developer in the United States is around $75,000 per year. However, this number can vary significantly based on experience.

Experience Level	Average Base Salary (USD)
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$60,000 – $70,000
Mid-Level (3-5 years)	$70,000 – $90,000
Senior Level (6+ years)	$90,000 – $120,000

As you can see, the average salary for a game developer increases with experience, with senior-level developers earning significantly more than their entry-level counterparts.

Location

The location where a game developer works can also have a significant impact on their salary. According to PayScale, the average salary for a game developer in San Francisco, California, is around $95,000 per year, while in New York City, it’s around $85,000. In contrast, the average salary for a game developer in Columbus, Ohio, is around $65,000.

Here’s a breakdown of the average salaries for game developers in different cities across the United States:

City	Average Base Salary (USD)
New York City, NY	$85,000
San Francisco, CA	$95,000
Los Angeles, CA	$85,000
Chicago, IL	$75,000
Columbus, OH	$65,000

As you can see, the cost of living can significantly impact a game developer’s salary. Those working in high-cost-of-living areas like San Francisco and New York City tend to earn more than those in lower-cost-of-living areas like Columbus.

Type of Company

The type of company a game developer works for can also affect their salary. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a game developer at a large gaming company is around $85,000 per year, while at a small or medium-sized gaming company, it’s around $70,000.

Here’s a breakdown of the average salaries for game developers at different types of companies:

Type of Company	Average Base Salary (USD)
Large Gaming Company	$85,000
Small/Medium-Sized Gaming Company	$70,000
Freelance Game Developer	$60,000 – $80,000

As you can see, working for a large gaming company can lead to higher salaries compared to smaller or medium-sized companies. Additionally, freelance game developers may earn less than those working for a company, but they often have more