Conclusion. Software engineers tend to retire between 45 and 65. The high average salary means software engineers can retire slightly earlier than the national average of 65. A tiny fraction of developers continue working after this but it is rare.

What do engineers do when they retire?

You can still land cutting-edge projects.

As an engineering consultant or independent contractor, you'll be able to pick and choose which projects you want to work on while still enjoying all the benefits of retirement. Engineering Jobs in the US Search contract, contract-to-hire, and full-time engineering positions.

How long do engineers stay at a job?

The national average for job tenure is 4.2 years so software engineers stay at one place for half as long. Typically the larger the company the longer a developer stays in one role.