COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) has stood the test of time, remaining essential in legacy systems used by large corporations, especially in banking, insurance, and government sectors. In 2025, IBM COBOL programmers continue to be in high demand due to the aging workforce and a shortage of new COBOL-trained professionals. This article explores the average IBM COBOL programmer salary in 2025, influencing factors, job outlook, and how you can boost your earning potential.
📊 Average IBM COBOL Programmer Salary in 2025
As of 2025, the average annual salary for an IBM COBOL programmer in the U.S. is approximately $92,000, with a range between $75,000 to $120,000+ depending on experience, industry, and location.
Entry-Level (0–2 years): $65,000 – $80,000
Mid-Level (3–7 years): $80,000 – $105,000
Senior-Level (8+ years): $110,000 – $135,000
Lead/Navigator/Architect Roles: $130,000 – $160,000+
🎯 Factors That Influence Salary
Several factors impact how much an IBM COBOL programmer earns:
Experience Level: Naturally, years in the field greatly affect compensation.
Industry: Financial services and federal contracts typically pay higher than other sectors.
Location: Cities like New York, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. offer higher salaries due to demand and cost of living.
Certifications: Relevant credentials (e.g., IBM Z Systems certifications) can boost salary offers.
Hybrid Skills: COBOL programmers who also understand modern systems like Java, SQL, or SAP can command higher salaries.
Employer Type: Large corporations or government agencies often provide better compensation packages.
💼 Job Outlook for COBOL Programmers
Despite being a decades-old language, COBOL is far from obsolete. According to 2025 projections:
Over 70% of global business transactions still run on COBOL systems.
There’s an ongoing talent shortage as older COBOL programmers retire.
Modernization efforts often require COBOL specialists to help transition or maintain existing mainframes.
Because of this, COBOL programmers remain essential, especially in industries like:
Banking & Finance
Insurance
Government & Defense
Healthcare
📚 Education and Certifications That Impact Salary
While a formal degree isn’t always mandatory, most employers prefer:
Bachelor’s in Computer Science or Information Systems
Certifications from IBM or CompTIA, such as:
IBM Certified Associate – COBOL Programmer
IBM Z Systems Developer Certification
Experience with IBM z/OS, JCL (Job Control Language), and DB2 adds value
For those transitioning from different tech backgrounds, bootcamps and online courses that teach COBOL are increasingly popular.
💡 Comparing COBOL Programmer Salaries with Other Tech Roles
Here’s how COBOL salaries stack up in 2025:
| Role | Avg Salary (2025) |
|---|---|
| IBM COBOL Programmer | $92,000 |
| SAP Peloton Instructor | $115,000 |
| Penetration Tester | $108,000 |
| Java Developer | $96,000 |
| Mainframe Systems Engineer | $110,000 |
If you’re making $103,000/year, your monthly take-home pay after taxes (assuming 25–28% deductions) would be approximately $6,200–$6,400.
✅ Benefits of Being a COBOL Programmer
High Demand + Low Supply = Job Security
Stable Industries: Banking and government provide long-term contracts.
Remote Opportunities: Especially after the shift from COVID-era workplace norms.
High Earning Potential: Particularly for those in senior or hybrid tech roles.
🧭 Senior Lead Navigator and Auxano Salary Comparisons
Professionals in advanced roles like Senior Lead Navigator or Auxano Technology Architects can earn between $130,000 to $160,000+, depending on project size and responsibility. Many of these roles value COBOL expertise as part of broader system architecture or legacy modernization.
🔮 Final Thoughts: Should You Learn COBOL in 2025?
If you’re considering a stable, well-paying tech career with relatively low competition, COBOL programming remains a lucrative and future-relevant option. With legacy systems still critical to major industries, COBOL skills can set you apart, especially when paired with newer technologies.