The latest salary sharing thread on r/cscareerquestions reveals new grad salary trends for 2026, with top tech companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft offering competitive packages.
Average Salary Ranges
According to the thread, average salary ranges for new grads in tech are between $100,000 and $160,000 per year, depending on the company, location, and skills required.
- Software Engineer: $125,000 - $150,000
- Data Scientist: $110,000 - $140,000
- Product Manager: $120,000 - $160,000
Top-paying companies for new grads include Google ($161,000), Amazon ($154,000), and Microsoft ($149,000)
Key Skills and Technologies
In-demand skills for new grads include proficiency in languages like Python, Java, and JavaScript, as well as experience with cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
- 1Develop a strong foundation in computer science fundamentals
- 2Build a portfolio of personal projects
- 3Network with professionals in the industry
To increase their chances of landing a high-paying job, new grads should focus on developing a strong skill set, building a professional network, and staying up-to-date with industry trends.