How much does a Programmers, PC games make

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  2. Programmers, PC games
Image that illustrates Programmers, PC games

Programmers, PC games

55 800 kr

Developers in games and digital media

43 600 - 59 200 kr / month

Women earn 94% of what men do.

Data/IT

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Programmers, PC games

Average salary 55 800 kr
Males 56 600 kr
Females 53 100 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 16 Vacant jobs ->

What does a programmer, PC games, do? – tasks and work environment

A programmer in PC games develops and implements software code that forms the basis for gaming experiences on computers. Tasks include creating game engines, optimizing graphics and sound, as well as debugging and improving game performance. Collaboration with designers, artists, and sound engineers is common to ensure the game functions both technically and aesthetically. The work environment is primarily office-based, often with a high pace and demands for creative problem-solving. Programmers in this industry usually work in teams and use advanced programming languages and tools.

Salary development over time

Programmers in PC games have experienced clear salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,500 SEK per month, increasing to 54 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 55 800 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of nearly 20 percent over two years, reflecting the rising demand for skilled developers in the gaming industry. The salary increase can be explained by a growing market for PC games, technological advancements, and increasingly specialized workforce. Competition for talent and the need for advanced programming skills positively influence salary levels. This trend shows that the profession is attractive and financially beneficial for those with the right skills.

Game programming often requires great creativity and problem-solving skills, making many in the profession enjoy combining technical challenges with artistic elements.

– statsskuld.se

Programmer, PC games salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 55 800 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 43,600 SEK (female with post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
  • Highest salary: 59,200 SEK (male, private sector, with post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
  • Hourly wage: 336 SEK (based on 166 working hours/month)
  • Gender differences: Women earn an average of 53 100 SEK, which is 94% of men's 56 600 SEK
  • Regional differences: Data is lacking, but salary levels may vary between metropolitan regions and smaller towns

Education and qualifications

To become a programmer in PC games, a post-secondary education in computer engineering, programming, or game development is often required. Practical knowledge of programming languages and experience with game engines are crucial. Many supplement their formal education with certifications or specialized courses in game programming.

  • Formal degrees: University or college education in computer science, game development, or similar (3 years or more)
  • Certifications/courses: Courses in C++, Unity, Unreal Engine, and other relevant tools
  • Internships/trainee programs: Practical projects and trainee programs within the gaming industry are common
  • Prerequisites: Basic programming skills and mathematical abilities
  • Self-study/online: Many developers enhance their skills through online courses and personal projects to stay updated
  • Tips for choosing: Select programs focused on game programming and collaborate on team projects for practical experience

Common benefits and compensations

Programmers in PC games are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and remote work opportunities. Many employers also provide training opportunities, bonuses linked to project success, and sometimes stock options in smaller game companies. Vacation and insurance policies follow collective agreements or company policies.

Competition and challenges

The profession of PC game programmers is characterized by high competition, especially for recent graduates without experience. Rapid technological development requires continuous learning and adaptation to new tools and platforms. Workload can be high during project phases and tight deadlines, demanding good stress management. Staying creative and problem-solving oriented is crucial for success in the industry. At the same time, the industry's high demands can lead to challenges in maintaining work-life balance.

Tips for aspiring PC game programmers

To succeed as a PC game programmer, it is beneficial to have a strong technical foundation and a passion for game development. Curiosity and a constant desire to learn new programming languages and tools are essential, requiring perseverance and self-discipline. Good teamwork skills are also necessary, as projects are often team-driven where communication is key. Creativity helps in finding innovative solutions to complex problems, making the profession stimulating. Building a portfolio with personal game projects can also be an effective way to showcase skills to future employers.

Key facts about programmers, PC games

  • Educational level: Post-secondary education, often 3 years or more
  • Salary range: 43,600–59,200 SEK/month
  • Work environment: Office-based, team-oriented, and technically demanding
  • Gender differences: Women earn approximately 94% of men's salaries
  • Demand: 179 job openings in the profession of Game and Digital Media Developers

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, opportunities exist to advance to senior programmer, technical lead, or specialized developer in graphics, AI, or networking. Some choose to move into project management or game design. Data from the Employment Service shows a stable demand for developers in gaming and digital media, although specific forecasts are lacking due to limited data. The growing gaming industry and digitalization indicate good future prospects. Staying updated with new technologies and trends is important to enhance competitiveness in the job market.

Common questions about programmers, PC games

  • What does a programmer, PC games, earn?
    - The average salary is approximately 55 800 SEK per month, ranging from 43,600 to 59,200 SEK depending on experience and education.
  • What education is required to become a programmer in PC games?
    - A post-secondary education in computer science or game development is common, often supplemented with practical courses and projects.
  • Are there gender differences in salaries?
    - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do within the profession.
  • What are common work environments?
    - Work is mostly conducted in office environments with teamwork and high pace.
  • What are the future prospects for the profession?
    - Demand is stable with many job openings in game development, but specific forecasts are lacking.
  • What personal qualities are important?
    - Creativity, teamwork skills, and technical curiosity are central to success.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-04 04:38:08

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Programmers, PC games is 59200 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a post-secondary education, 3 years or more. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 58200 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Programmers, PC games is 43600 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 47100 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 105% 49500 kr 50200 kr
35-44 94% 58500 kr 59600 kr
45-54 64500 kr 65500 kr
55-64 59300 kr 60000 kr
Snitt 94% 54900 kr 55800 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Programmers, PC games has the SSYK code 2513, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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