For informational purposes only. Not financial or career advice. Rates vary by experience and market.
Freelance Software Developer Rates in San Francisco
Data-driven rate insights to help you price your services confidently.
Entry Level
$85
/hour
Mid-Range
$165
/hour
Expert Level
$350
/hour
Annual Equivalent (40hrs/week)
Entry
$176,800
Mid
$343,200
Expert
$728,000
Based on 2,080 billable hours/year (actual may be 1,500-1,800 after admin, marketing, and time off)
Rates by Experience Level
Core Skills
- JavaScript/TypeScript
- React or Vue.js
- Node.js or Python
- Cloud platforms (AWS/GCP)
- PostgreSQL/MongoDB
- Git/GitHub
- Agile methodologies
Premium Skills (+20-50%)
- AI/ML and LLMs
- Rust or Go
- Kubernetes/Docker
- Real-time systems
- Security engineering
Top Industries
Typical Clients
Rate Setting Tips
These are general suggestions, not professional advice. Your situation may differ.
- SF is the benchmark for tech rates—don't go below market
- AI/ML skills justify 30-50% rate premiums
- Equity offers are common—factor them into total compensation
- Many SF clients expect startup speed and flexibility
- Remote work has expanded the talent pool—differentiate on expertise
Common Pricing Mistakes
- Accepting below-market rates from 'exposure' startups
- Not valuing equity correctly (often worthless)
- Overcommitting to one client without rate protection
- Ignoring California's strict contractor laws (AB5)
Negotiation Tips
- Reference FAANG contractor rates as benchmarks
- Emphasize Bay Area network and quick collaboration
- Offer sprint-based pricing for MVP projects
- Be clear about AB5 compliance and your contractor status
Frequently Asked Questions
What do freelance software developers charge in San Francisco?
Freelance developers in SF charge $85-350/hr. Mid-level rates average $165/hr, with AI/ML specialists and senior engineers commanding $250-350/hr.
Are San Francisco developer rates the highest in the US?
SF rates are among the highest, typically 50-60% above national average. NYC is comparable for finance-focused work, but SF leads for pure tech and AI/ML.
How does AB5 affect freelance developers in California?
California's AB5 law requires most workers to be classified as employees. However, business-to-business contractors providing specialized services like software development often qualify for exemptions.
Should I accept equity instead of higher cash rates?
Be cautious with equity. Statistically, most startup equity becomes worthless. If you accept equity, treat it as a bonus and ensure your cash rate still covers your needs.
Is remote work affecting SF developer rates?
Yes, remote work has created more competition for SF clients. However, Bay Area companies still pay premium rates for timezone alignment and occasional in-person collaboration.
Methodology
Rates compiled from contractor data, job postings, and freelancer surveys. SF's 1.30x cost of living multiplier reflects housing costs.
Data Sources
- Bureau of Labor Statistics 2024
- Levels.fyi Contractor Data 2024
- Toptal Developer Rate Survey 2024
- Hired State of Tech Salaries 2025
Important Disclaimer
These rates are estimates for educational purposes. Actual rates vary based on experience, skills, client industry, and negotiation. This is not financial advice.
Rate estimates are not guarantees. Actual rates depend on your specific experience, portfolio, negotiation skills, client budget, and market conditions.
This is not financial or career advice. Consult with a financial advisor or career counselor for personalized guidance on pricing and business decisions.
Data limitations: Freelance rates are notoriously difficult to benchmark accurately. Our data is compiled from multiple sources but may not reflect your specific market segment.
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