Software Developer vs Quantity Surveyor
Salary Comparison.
Side-by-side monthly salary breakdown for South Africa in 2026 — entry to senior level, gross before tax.
Quantity Surveyor earns 11% more than Software Developer
Median R 42 000/month vs R 38 000/month — a R 4 000/month difference
Software Developer
R 456 000/year
73% above SA workforce median
Quantity Surveyor
R 504 000/year
91% above SA workforce median
Salary by experience level
| Level | Software Developer | Quantity Surveyor |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level(0–2 yrs) | R 17 000 | R 22 000 |
| Mid-level(3–6 yrs) | R 38 000 | R 42 000 |
| Senior(7+ yrs) | R 68 000 | R 75 000 |
Median monthly gross before PAYE tax · South Africa 2026
Salary range comparison
Entry-level
Mid-level
Senior
Key differences
Software Developer
Demand for software developers in South Africa is strong and growing — particularly in fintech, healthtech, and e-commerce — with no sign of slowing into 2027.
Quantity Surveyor
Government infrastructure investment keeps QS demand robust. Housing backlogs and private sector commercial development continue to create work. Skilled PrQSs are a scarce resource.
See your actual take-home pay
Enter any gross salary to calculate PAYE, UIF, and net pay after deductions.
Frequently asked questions
Which earns more — a Software Developer or a Quantity Surveyor in South Africa?▾
A Quantity Surveyor earns more on average. The median monthly salary for a Quantity Surveyor is R 42 000/month, compared to R 38 000/month for a Software Developer — a difference of R 4 000/month (11% higher).
What is the Software Developer salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Software Developer salary in South Africa is R 38 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 14 000–R 22 000/month, mid-level pays R 28 000–R 50 000/month, and senior roles pay R 55 000–R 90 000/month.
What is the Quantity Surveyor salary in South Africa in 2026?▾
The median Quantity Surveyor salary in South Africa is R 42 000/month gross in 2026. Entry-level positions pay R 18 000–R 28 000/month, mid-level pays R 32 000–R 55 000/month, and senior roles pay R 60 000–R 100 000/month.
How do I calculate take-home pay for a Software Developer or Quantity Surveyor?▾
Use the Rand Tools PAYE calculator. Enter the gross monthly salary and it will calculate your exact take-home pay after PAYE income tax, UIF (1% of gross, capped at R177.12/month), and any pension or medical aid contributions.