[patgenzler]

In theory the highest salary a programmer can make is infinite. Think WhatsApp founders, $20 billion acquisition.

The numbers in this post probably apply to less than 0.01% of developers. Most developers don't even come close, even in Silicon Valley. I have seen people make those numbers, including one million compensation, and the only explanation I can come up with is: right place, right time.

I'm sure there are exceptions, though.

There's only three ways to get above average returns over time: get into one of the top 5 tech companies that pay well and insert yourself into important groups and ride a fast track wave; become a premium freelancer and charge premium rates; or get into a rocketship startup and get a lucky outsized exit. Lucky because very very few startups have a good exit (for employees). Most die, or exit in a way investors and founders make some money but employees don't make anything. Hello liquidation preferences.

Bottom line: get good at what you do, stay in the top 25% in your area, build a reputation, and go to places where you can add value. Negotiate.